A Reading Specialist performs complex professional work, providing teaching and/or training services to students in general instruction in one or more subject contents; motivates students to develop skills in assigned subject matters; performs related work as required. Performance expectations include, but are not limited to, the following functions/tasks:

• Maintains and respects confidentiality of student and school personnel information;

• Meets and instructs the students(s) in assigned locations and at the designated times;

• Designs coherent instruction based upon knowledge of subject matter, current instructional practices, students, the community, and curriculum goals;

• Plans effective instruction to achieve desired objectives that reflect the Virginia Standards of Learning and division curriculum guidelines;

• Prepares for classes assigned and shows evidence of lesson preparation upon request of the building administrator(s);

• Diagnoses individual, group, and program needs and plans for the appropriate use of time, materials, and resources to match the ability and needs of all students;

• Evaluates students' progress; provides students with specific evaluative feedback; maintains appropriate records and prepares progress reports;

• Uses a variety of assessment strategies and instruments to make both short-term and long-range instructional decisions to improve student learning;

• Administers standardized tests in accordance with established procedures;

• Identifies and communicates specific student performance expectations; documents student learning gains using appropriate assessment instruments;

• Demonstrates an understanding of curriculum, subject, and current instructional practices;

• Creates learning experiences that make the subject matter meaningful for all students;

• Understands that students differ in their learning styles and differentiates instruction to meet diverse student needs;

• Uses appropriate materials, technology, and resources in a manner that promotes the development of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills;

• Selects, evaluates, and refines a variety of teaching methods and instructional strategies for the active engagement of students and improvement of student learning;

• Implements a classroom management policy that fosters a safe and positive environment for all students and staff;

• Ensures the adequate and safe  supervision of students;

• Manages classroom procedures to maximize academic learning time;

• Establishes and maintains positive rapport with students;

• Motivates students to achieve maximum potential;

• Creates a supportive learning environment for all students that encourages social interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation;

• Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities;

• Reports any pertinent information to the building administrators in case of child endangerment, neglect, or abuse;

• Uses effective verbal, nonverbal, and media communication techniques to foster positive interactions in the classroom;

• Works collaboratively with staff, families, and community resources to support the success of a diverse student population;

• Takes responsibility for and participates in a meaningful and continuous process of professional development;

• Maintains licensure at the state and/or national level; assumes responsibility for professional growth and keeps materials, supplies, and skills up-to-date;

• Works in a collegial and collaborative manner with peers, school personnel, and the community to promote and support student learning;

• Provides service to the profession, the division, and the community;

• Complies with and supports school and division regulations and policies;

• Maintains proper boundaries with students at all times, assuring respect for the ethical and legal duties in the staff-student relationship and the essential duty to serve as a role model;

• Communicates with students, student counselors and parents through conferences and other means;

• Participates in curriculum development, faculty committees, and student activity sponsorship, as requested;

• Prepares course objectives and outline for course of study following curriculum guidelines or requirements of state and school.

• Lectures, demonstrates, and uses audiovisual teaching aids to present subject matter to class.

• Prepares, administers, and corrects tests, and records results.

• Assigns lessons, corrects papers, and hears oral presentations.

• Counsels pupils when adjustment and academic problems arise.

• Discusses pupils' academic and behavioral attitudes and achievements with parents.

• Keeps attendance and grade records as required by school.

• Coordinates class field trips.

• Works cooperatively with the total staff.

• Assumes responsibility for the care of materials, equipment, and facilities.

• Assumes responsibility for a neat, safe environment for students committed to their care.

• Provides a good role model of an educated professional in appearance, demeanor, dress and behavior;

• Assumes responsibilities outside the classroom as they relate to school;

• Models professional, moral, and ethical standards as well as personal integrity in all interactions;

• Models non-discriminatory practices in all activities;

• Performs related duties as assigned by the building administrator(s) in accordance with the school/division policies and practices.