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Adult Literacy Instructor Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

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Adult Literacy Instructor information

See Boston, MA salary details

$25.5K

$66.9K

$104.3K

How much do adult literacy instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for adult literacy instructor in Boston, MA is $66,855.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,900.00 and $72,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an adult literacy instructor do?

An Adult Literacy Instructor teaches reading, writing, and basic math skills to adults who want to improve their literacy. They assess each student's skill level and create tailored lesson plans to help learners achieve their educational goals. Instructors often work in community centers, schools, or non-profit organizations, and may also help students prepare for high school equivalency exams or improve their English language skills. Their work empowers adults to gain confidence, pursue further education, or improve their job prospects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adult literacy instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adult Literacy Instructor, you need expertise in literacy instruction, curriculum development, and assessment, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with educational software, assessment tools, and learning management systems (LMS) is often required. Patience, cultural sensitivity, and strong interpersonal communication are essential soft skills for engaging adult learners and addressing diverse learning needs. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting adult students in achieving literacy goals and fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment.

What are some common challenges adult literacy instructors face when working with adult learners, and how are they addressed?

Adult Literacy Instructors often encounter diverse learning needs, varying literacy levels, and learners who may have had negative educational experiences in the past. Building trust and creating a supportive, respectful classroom environment is crucial. Instructors typically use differentiated instruction, real-life materials, and flexible pacing to address these challenges, ensuring that each student can progress at their own speed and feel motivated. Collaboration with colleagues and access to professional development also help instructors stay equipped with effective teaching strategies.

What is the difference between Adult Literacy Instructor vs ESL Teacher?

AspectAdult Literacy InstructorESL Teacher
CredentialsGED, TESOL/TEFL certification often preferredTESOL/TEFL certification, sometimes ESL teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentAdult education centers, community colleges, nonprofitsLanguage schools, community colleges, adult education programs
Employer & IndustryAdult education, nonprofit, governmentLanguage education, international or local language schools
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on adult literacy and basic skillsFocus on teaching English as a second language

Adult Literacy Instructors primarily teach basic reading, writing, and math skills to adults, often in community settings. ESL Teachers focus on teaching English language skills to non-native speakers. While both roles involve adult education and may require similar certifications, their target populations and teaching goals differ. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers find the right fit based on their skills and interests.

What are popular job titles related to Adult Literacy Instructor jobs in Boston, MA?

For Adult Literacy Instructor jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Adult Literacy Instructor jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Adult Literacy Instructor jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Adult Literacy Instructor job openings:

Adult Literacy Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adult Literacy Instructor job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,855 per year, or $32.1 per hour.

26-27 ABE Reading/Writing 3 - Mornings

Young World Physical Education

Somerville, MA • On-site

$61 - $83/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Key responsibilities

  • Prepare lesson plans and select appropriate materials following curriculum guidelines and standards.

  • Evaluate student progress, make placement recommendations, and document attendance and assessments.

  • Work with colleagues and program staff to address student and program needs and integrate technology into instruction.

Job description

26-27 ABE Reading/Writing 3 - Mornings

Somerville Public Schools SCALE - Somerville, Massachusetts Open in Google Maps

This job is also posted in Somerville Public Schools

Job Details

Job ID: 5885728

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Posted: Aug 13, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Aug 24, 2026

Job Description Position Summary

The ABE Reading/Writing 3 AM Teacher will be primarily responsible for raising the reading and writing levels of a class of approximately 15-20 adult students. Students range in age and previous education. Most students are working towards earning a high school equivalency credential. To this end,

The ABE Reading/Writing 3 AM teacher is responsible for teaching a range of writing, reading and social studies topics. Experience teaching literacy in the content areas is preferred, it is essential that the RW teacher has had training in and successful experience teaching explicit reading and writing skills/strategies. The RW teacher will work with the Program Administrator to plan the curriculum. The instructor must keep attendance records, document student progress, and assist with other DESE-related activities.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities
  • Prepare lesson plans and choose appropriate materials, following the ABE Department’s Curriculum Guidelines and MA DESE College and Career Readiness Standards, and submit one lesson plan per week
  • Attend and participate in department meetings and appropriate in-service workshops.
  • Evaluate student progress and make placement recommendations as required by department policy/procedures.
  • Complete attendance and assessment-related activities as required by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
  • Work effectively with other teachers, counselor(s), and the program administrator on student and program issues.
  • Follow department policy/procedures regarding substitutes and substitute lesson plans.
  • Integrate technology into instruction.
Qualifications, Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills
  • Bachelor’s Degree; Masters in ESOL or adult literacy preferred.
  • Minimum of 3 years classroom teaching experience – at least one complete year teaching adult immigrants
  • Demonstrated knowledge of a variety of learner-centered teaching approaches and effective integrated skills activities
  • Massachusetts Teacher Certification a plus
  • MAPT certification is preferred but not required for this position
  • Familiarity with Aztec, Essential Ed and other online learning platform
Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the position’s essential functions.

  • Mobility:Frequent walking, standing.
  • Lifting/Strength:Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry objects ranging from 10 to 20 lbs (e.g., books, supplies, equipment).
  • Physical Dexterity:Bending, crouching, kneeling, stooping, and reaching to assist students.
  • Stationary Tasks:Remaining in a stationary position (sitting/standing) for long periods.
Reporting Relationships
  • Position Reports to: Director of Continuing Education
Terms of Employment

Employment Status:Part Time

Grant Funded

Union Affiliation: SEU, Unit D

FLSA Classification:Non Exempt

August - June

Weekly Schedule:

  • 3 morningsper week
  • Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 9am-12pm
  • Teaching Hours: 9
  • Preperation Hours: 2
  • Monthly meetings, third Thursday of the month, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
  • Salary shall be commensurate with education and experience, in accordance with the Somerville Educator's Unioncollective bargaining agreement
Pre-Employment Requirements

MA Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Clearance

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The Somerville Public School does not discriminate in its programs, facilities or employment of educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' group or interferes with their ability to learn or work.

Position Type: Part-Time

Salary: $44.28 to $60.19 Salary per CBA salary schedule

Job Categories:

Classroom Teacher > Alternative Learning Environment

Classroom Teacher > Reading/Literacy

Job Requirements
  • Citizenship, residency or work visa required
Contact Information
  • Joselyn Marte , Director of Continuing Education
  • SCALE
  • Email: jmarte@k12.somerville.ma.us
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