25-26 Teacher on Assignment - Support Specialist

Position Title: Support Specialist
Department: Academic Services
Reports To: Site Administrator
FLSA Status: Exempt
Location: Whipple Ranch Elementary

Position Summary:
The Support Specialist is responsible for supporting the mission of Show Low Unified School District by overseeing reading interventions, classroom supports, and instructional coaching. This position is integral to ensuring student success by guiding tiered reading instruction, supporting teachers with instructional planning, and improving literacy outcomes. The role also includes professional development for staff, lesson demonstrations, co-teaching, and acquiring resources to develop a structured literacy program. This individual will collaborate with teachers, facilitate topic study groups, and provide instructional coaching to enhance student achievement.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s/Master’s Degree
• Arizona Teaching Certificate
• Reading endorsement preferred
• Appropriately Certified in core content area
• SEI Endorsement Required
• Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card

Core Job Functions:

Instructional Support:

• Collaborate with teachers to plan for learning and instruction, analyze data, and drive instructional strategies.
• Assist teachers in diagnosing academic difficulties and developing intervention strategies for students.
• Participate in lesson planning, grouping strategies, and resource development to improve instructional outcomes.
• Conduct focused classroom observations to provide teachers constructive feedback and "next steps" guidance.
• Model effective instructional methods and classroom management strategies to enhance student learning.
• Observe and coach teachers to improve the implementation of instructional strategies and support reflective teaching practices.
• Support teachers with implementing district-approved curriculum aligned with state standards.

Reading Intervention:

• Coordinate and implement research-based reading intervention programs aligned with the district's reading vision.
• Oversee small group instruction.
• Facilitate literacy instruction based on best practices, including phonological awareness, decoding, vocabulary development, and fluency.
• Use district and state assessment data to inform instructional decisions and improve student outcomes.
• Participate in team reviews at the site level regarding low-performing students' academic progress.
• Consult with teachers and paraprofessionals to implement effective literacy strategies and interventions.

Professional Development:

• Plan and facilitate professional development sessions for teachers to enhance instructional skills.
• Participate in PLCs at the district level with other specialists to ensure continuity and alignment of reading instruction.
• Conduct training on instructional strategies, literacy techniques, and best practices to improve teacher effectiveness.

Recordkeeping and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of student progress, intervention strategies, and teacher support activities.
• Document teacher progress through observation reports and maintain communication logs.
• Assist in test administration and enter assessment data accurately to support district reporting requirements.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Participate in school-wide events, meetings, and parent conferences.
• Support school and district initiatives to promote academic success.
• Assume individual responsibilities assigned by the principal or supervisor, including committee work, student supervision, or other planning tasks.
• Take necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, and materials.

Core Values & Professional Qualities:

• Promote positive interactions with colleagues, students, and parents.
• Be responsible, reliable, and punctual.
• Maintain flexibility and adaptability to change.
• Demonstrate problem-solving behavior and conflict resolution skills.
• Serve as a positive role model for students.
• Uphold district policies, school rules, and professional conduct standards.

Physical Demands:

• Regularly required to talk, hear, and use hands for instructional materials, resources, and digital tools.
• Frequently required to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move up to 25 lbs., such as instructional materials or student resources.
• Vision requirements include close vision for reading and analyzing data.

Working Conditions:

• Work is primarily performed in classrooms, offices, and instructional settings.
• The position may require occasional travel between the school site and district office.
• May require extended hours during professional development sessions or district events.

Salary : $51,106 - $70,606