"Literacy Consultant - Regional Professional Development Center"

Position Summary

Literacy Consultant
Regional Professional Development Center
Economic and Workforce Development
Full Time/Term

The Southeast Regional Professional Development Center (RPDC) has been housed on the campus of Southeast Missouri State University since 1996. The Center serves approximately 84 school districts in the southeast region. RPDC personnel provide training programs for the teachers and administrators throughout the area on a continuous basis.

Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in development of DESE training and coaching materials regarding best practice for effective literacy acquisition (and skills related to spelling, writing, speaking and listening), instruction, and intervention aligned with the science of reading for all students, but especially for students who are struggling readers
• Assist in development of DESE training and coaching materials regarding best practice for effective assessment practices (universal screening, progress monitoring, and assessment to inform instruction and intervention) aligned with the current state of scientific research and evaluation of instruction and intervention effectiveness for all students, but especially for students who are struggling readers
• Organize and conduct DESE-vetted, high-quality training, coaching, and technical assistance in the five components of literacy instruction; phonological/phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension, as they relate to reading, spelling, writing, speaking and listening
• Organize and conduct DESE-vetted, high-quality training, coaching, and technical assistance to school districts to promote awareness and implementation of best practice for effective literacy acquisition, instruction and intervention aligned with the science of reading
• Organize and conduct DESE-vetted, high-quality training, coaching, and technical assistance to school districts regarding best practice for effective assessment practices (universal screening, progress monitoring, and assessment to inform instruction and intervention) aligned with the current state of scientific research and evaluation of the effectiveness of these systems
• Participate in collaborative planning meetings within RPDC, other regional literacy consultants and DESE staff
• Engage in activities to stay informed on current research related to best practice literacy acquisition, implementation, intervention, and assessment
• Participate in collaborative planning meetings with other literacy consultants within and across regions
• Assist DESE with the collection of data for statewide analysis
• Attend and actively participate in statewide monthly resource, support, and training meetings, as designated by the DESE master calendar and direction from the Literacy Coordinator
• Report data and consultant activities by the 5th day of each month using a DESE provided system

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors' degree in education or closely related field with concentration, specialization and/or emphasis in the appropriate content area is required; master's degree is plus
• Experience with science of reading and associated instructional, intervention, and assessment practices
• Three years of classroom experience and elementary or secondary content-specific teaching certificate
• Understanding of significant research in the field of literacy education and the ability to apply the findings to the improvement of instruction
• Understanding of practices within and implementation of core components within a multi-tiered system of support
• Understanding of effective high quality professional development (HQPD) standards for adult learners
• Ability to express complex ideas to a variety of audiences clearly and concisely both orally and in writing
• Ability to manage diverse activities and meet established deadlines
• Ability to establish and maintain rapport and effective working relationships with department staff and local school district personnel
• Ability to analyze complex educational problems and develop feasible solutions
• Effective meeting management and processes/protocols
• Demonstrated coaching, presenting, consulting, and facilitating skills
• Strong interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and problem-solving processes
• Demonstrated leadership skills
• Ability to use technology to enhance professional development
• Ability to manage multiple priorities through strong organizational skills including meeting deadlines
• Ability and means to travel in the state of Missouri on a regular basis

Required Information & Deadline

Application Deadline: To ensure full consideration, application materials must be received by September 19, 2025. The position will be available October 1, 2025 and will remain open until filled.

To Apply: Complete the online application by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page. You will need to submit the following in order for your application materials to be complete: letter of interest addressing all position qualifications, current resume, names and contact information of three professional references may be asked for at a later date if not submitted

Additional Information

Department Website: Regional Professional Development Center

About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching, and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high-quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty, and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.