ELA/Literacy Content Specialist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
ELA/Literacy Content Specialist
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
State government provides public services
The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.
This position follows a hybrid model of three (3) assigned in-office days per week. The work location is Everett.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE or the Department) seeks a high-performing, experienced professional to join the Office of Curriculum & Standards within the Teaching and Learning Unit (T&L) as the ELA/Literacy Content Specialist (Educational Specialist C). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to applications received within the first two weeks (14 days). Please include a cover letter with your application.
DESE’s Teaching and Learning Unit works to improve learning outcomes for all Massachusetts students by increasing equitable access to effective, diverse educators who provide evidence-based, inclusive, and culturally and linguistically sustaining instruction aligned to the Massachusetts curriculum frameworks. This work advances the Vision of a Massachusetts Graduate, which aspires to prepare all students to be thinkers, contributors, and leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in college, careers, and civic life. Within T&L, the Office of Curriculum & Standards sets academic standards for the Massachusetts public school system; provides curriculum information and resources to the public; and assists districts with evaluating, selecting, and implementing curricular materials in service of strengthening teaching and learning.
About the Role and Responsibilities
The Department is seeking an ELA/Literacy Specialist to advance high-quality ELA/literacy education for all students across the Commonwealth. The specialist will lead and contribute to large-scale, high-impact projects focused on high-quality instructional materials, evidence-based instructional practices, and developing tools and resources to support educators. Working collaboratively with educators and teams across the agency, the specialist will help translate statewide priorities into actionable strategies and resources that improve instructional practice and student outcomes.
Responsibilities include\:
1. Lead large-scale, high-impact literacy instructional projects, such as\:
a. Evaluating and revising the ELA/Literacy Curriculum Framework (state standards)
b. Supporting the development of an integrated K-3 ELA/literacy, science, and social studies curriculum
c. Reviewing and evaluating high-quality ELA/literacy instructional materials through the CURATE project
2. Support districts in meeting their literacy improvement goals through relationship-building, progress monitoring, and coaching
a. Developing professional development and instructional resources for educators statewide
b. Provide technical assistance to districts to support their ELA/Literacy goals
c. Support districts to skillfully implement high-quality instructional materials
3. Contribute to other DESE programs and policies through collaboration with other teams
Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Strong candidates may bring experience in several of the following areas\:
• Deep knowledge of the MA Curriculum Framework for ELA/Literacy and evidence-based literacy instructional practices
• Knowledge of ELA/Literacy high-quality instructional materials
• Knowledge of culturally and linguistically sustaining practices in literacy
• Ability to manage multiple interdependent projects independently, including being organized with documents, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines
• Experience working across teams to support shared priorities and goals
• Experience building collaborative relationships with a variety of education stakeholders
• Ability to provide clear, professional and supportive written and verbal communication to stakeholders
• Experience teaching ELA/literacy in a public school, particularly in Massachusetts, preference to K-8 experience
Desired Mindsets and Attributes
• Sound judgment and ownership\: Proactive, reliable, and able to work independently within established parameters while recognizing when to seek input or additional expertise.
• Equity and mission alignment\: Asset-based and committed to improving outcomes and expanding equitable access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction for Massachusetts students as articulated in DESE’s Educational Vision and Vision of a Graduate,
• Adaptability, collaboration, and growth\: Comfortable working in an evolving environment, building productive relationships across teams, responding to feedback, and continuously improving practices and processes.
Travel to events, meetings, and schools/districts throughout the Commonwealth, including interstate travel, is occasionally required.
Please include a cover letter with your resume.
Questions regarding this position or the application process should be directed to [email protected]
The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.
This position follows a hybrid model of three (3) assigned in-office days per week. The work location is Everett.
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE or the Department) seeks a high-performing, experienced professional to join the Office of Curriculum & Standards within the Teaching and Learning Unit (T&L) as the ELA/Literacy Content Specialist (Educational Specialist C). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to applications received within the first two weeks (14 days). Please include a cover letter with your application.
DESE’s Teaching and Learning Unit works to improve learning outcomes for all Massachusetts students by increasing equitable access to effective, diverse educators who provide evidence-based, inclusive, and culturally and linguistically sustaining instruction aligned to the Massachusetts curriculum frameworks. This work advances the Vision of a Massachusetts Graduate, which aspires to prepare all students to be thinkers, contributors, and leaders equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in college, careers, and civic life. Within T&L, the Office of Curriculum & Standards sets academic standards for the Massachusetts public school system; provides curriculum information and resources to the public; and assists districts with evaluating, selecting, and implementing curricular materials in service of strengthening teaching and learning.
About the Role and Responsibilities
The Department is seeking an ELA/Literacy Specialist to advance high-quality ELA/literacy education for all students across the Commonwealth. The specialist will lead and contribute to large-scale, high-impact projects focused on high-quality instructional materials, evidence-based instructional practices, and developing tools and resources to support educators. Working collaboratively with educators and teams across the agency, the specialist will help translate statewide priorities into actionable strategies and resources that improve instructional practice and student outcomes.
Responsibilities include\:
1. Lead large-scale, high-impact literacy instructional projects, such as\:
a. Evaluating and revising the ELA/Literacy Curriculum Framework (state standards)
b. Supporting the development of an integrated K-3 ELA/literacy, science, and social studies curriculum
c. Reviewing and evaluating high-quality ELA/literacy instructional materials through the CURATE project
2. Support districts in meeting their literacy improvement goals through relationship-building, progress monitoring, and coaching
a. Developing professional development and instructional resources for educators statewide
b. Provide technical assistance to districts to support their ELA/Literacy goals
c. Support districts to skillfully implement high-quality instructional materials
3. Contribute to other DESE programs and policies through collaboration with other teams
Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Strong candidates may bring experience in several of the following areas\:
• Deep knowledge of the MA Curriculum Framework for ELA/Literacy and evidence-based literacy instructional practices
• Knowledge of ELA/Literacy high-quality instructional materials
• Knowledge of culturally and linguistically sustaining practices in literacy
• Ability to manage multiple interdependent projects independently, including being organized with documents, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines
• Experience working across teams to support shared priorities and goals
• Experience building collaborative relationships with a variety of education stakeholders
• Ability to provide clear, professional and supportive written and verbal communication to stakeholders
• Experience teaching ELA/literacy in a public school, particularly in Massachusetts, preference to K-8 experience
Desired Mindsets and Attributes
• Sound judgment and ownership\: Proactive, reliable, and able to work independently within established parameters while recognizing when to seek input or additional expertise.
• Equity and mission alignment\: Asset-based and committed to improving outcomes and expanding equitable access to high-quality, evidence-based instruction for Massachusetts students as articulated in DESE’s Educational Vision and Vision of a Graduate,
• Adaptability, collaboration, and growth\: Comfortable working in an evolving environment, building productive relationships across teams, responding to feedback, and continuously improving practices and processes.
Travel to events, meetings, and schools/districts throughout the Commonwealth, including interstate travel, is occasionally required.
Please include a cover letter with your resume.
Questions regarding this position or the application process should be directed to [email protected]
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree and at least four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional educational experience in a specific or related content area, educational program/or service;
a Master’s degree or higher in a specific or related educational content area may be substituted for two years of the required experience -- 30 semester hours equals one year of experience for substitution purposes.
Special Requirements\: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License or the equivalent from another state may be required.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree and at least four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional educational experience in a specific or related content area, educational program/or service;
a Master’s degree or higher in a specific or related educational content area may be substituted for two years of the required experience -- 30 semester hours equals one year of experience for substitution purposes.
Special Requirements\: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's License or the equivalent from another state may be required.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics?Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
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State government provides public services
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts runs state government operations to deliver public services and enforce laws for residents and communities. It provides programs and services through agencies and online portals, and residents interact by applying for benefits, renewing licenses, paying fees, or accessing records. Unlike private companies, it is funded by public funds and guided by policy, accountability, and transparency to serve all residents rather than shareholders. Its goal is to improve people’s lives by implementing legislative actions and delivering reliable, efficient public services.
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