Early Literacy Trainer and Outreach Specialist

Description

Are you passionate about early literacy and eager to make a valuable impact on early childhood teachers, pre-readers and their families? We are seeking a dynamic Early Literacy Trainer and Outreach Specialist to join the Child and Family Library Services department. This position plays a crucial role in our mission to promote literacy and learning by empowering the community in preparing our youngest to learn to read. Apply today and help shape the future of early literacy in our community.

Title: EARLY LITERACY TRAINER AND OUTREACH SPECIALIST

Location: Koelbel Library 5955 S. Holly St. Centennial, CO 80121

Reports to: Supervisor, Early Childhood Literacy Services

FLSA Status: Exempt, full-time

Pay Rate: $59,700 - $74,600

Purpose: Function as a District resource to provide early literacy training, teacher coaching and library awareness at designated preschools in the Arapahoe Libraries service area. Work with the Child and Family Library Services department to support Arapahoe Libraries internal literacy training initiatives as well as other programs and outreach services focused on early childhood literacy.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

70% EARLY LITERACY OUTREACH AND TRAINING

Identifies high-need community preschools and determines early childhood literacy needs.

Contacts preschool directors to determine qualification for participation in the Arapahoe Libraries Reading Readiness Outreach program.

Builds and maintains positive working relationships in area preschools and with early childhood stakeholders throughout the community.

Conducts ongoing early literacy advocacy, mentorship, training and evaluation in preschools.

Promotes library programs and services in preschools and at community events.

Implements the Reading Readiness Outreach Book Bag Project.

Implements the Reading Readiness Outreach Summer Reading Program.

30% EARLY LITERACY DEPARTMENT SUPPORT

Supports library staff with internal training, mentorship, program development and implementation, and advisory services.

Research new trends in early childhood, early literacy development, and demographic information to support department strategy and services.

Provides input and collaborates to develop strategic early literacy outreach services throughout the community.

Participates in professional development opportunities.

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

May provide support for CFLS 0-12 program and outreach initiatives.

May collaborate in developing and participating in Department and District programs and events.

May collaborate with colleagues to substitute for storytimes and early literacy programs.

May manage volunteers.

May be trained to drive District vehicle.

May participate in District projects and operational efforts not specific to specialty.

Performs other related duties and may contribute to cross-functional initiatives and projects as assigned and requested.

Minimum Qualifications:

Three to five years of similar or related experience in preschools, training adults, or early childhood literacy.

Master's degree in the education field or the ability to obtain a master's degree in the education field within three years from the start of the program. An application to the school of education must be made within six months of the date of hire.

Willingness to fulfill requirements for a Professional Credential Level 3.0 from Colorado Shines Professional Development Information System (PDIS) upon completion of a master's degree in the education field.

Advanced understanding of Every Child Ready to Read, early childhood literacy and early childhood developmental levels and theories.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Experience working confidently with young children, parents, teachers and caregivers from diverse backgrounds.

Experience with developing, conducting and mentoring instructional programs and services for adults.

Experience with developing and conducting effective programs and services for young children.

Ability to work in multiple facilities with varying shifts, including evenings and weekends.

Valid Colorado Driver's License with a clean driving record.

Ability to travel to library and outreach locations on a regular basis.

Intermediate technology skills for Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook) and familiarity with Microsoft Edge and Microsoft Teams, and an ability to learn and apply new technologies.

Core Values of Collaboration, Equity and Innovation:

Ability to promote inclusivity, embrace diverse perspectives and prioritize fairness to contribute to a culture of inclusion and respect.

Demonstrated ability to foster open communication, mutual respect, problem solving, adaptability and constructive conflict resolution to promote a cohesive and innovative work environment that welcomes continuous learning.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working in an early childhood setting or classroom.

Experience working in a library setting.

Understanding of Colorado Early Learning and Developmental Guidelines Preschool Standards, curriculum and recommended best practices.

Experience with early childhood and community resource agencies.

Advanced knowledge of developmentally appropriate children's literature: board books and picture books.

Experience with volunteer management.

Familiarity with the Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale (ECERS).

Work Environment:

Moderate noise (computers, phones, printers, staff and patron interactions).

Ability to travel to various libraries and community outreach locations.

 Ability to work varying shifts, including evenings and weekends.

This job description describes the general level of work being performed and is not necessarily an all-inclusive list of job-related responsibilities, duties or aspects associated with the job, and may be amended anytime based on business need. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Inclusion and diversity are part of our values at Arapahoe Libraries.

Qualified applicants who represent the diversities of the communities we serve are encouraged to apply.