Reading Assistant Jobs in Ridgefield Park, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Lead Charter School LEAD 571 - Newark, New Jersey. Open in Google Maps

THE ROLE

LEAD Charter School seeks an exceptional Reading interventionist to work extensively with students to help them improve specific reading skills such as letter‑naming, initial sounds, phoneme segmentation, and comprehension strategies. An interventionist addresses the specific needs of a particular child when regular classroom instruction is not sufficient. Interventionists work with the teacher to design methods of learning that are most appropriate for each child. The Reading Interventionist is responsible for providing individual or small group instruction to students who are academically struggling in the classroom. This position will also help develop literacy skills and increase the reading capabilities through literacy materials, reading programs, and a wide variety of resources and collaboration with parents and other teachers. This position supports student achievement in the area of English Language Arts, with special attention to reading. This position is responsible for monitoring, reporting, and communicating student progress and performance.

WHO WE ARE

The mission of LEAD is to enable students ages 16‑21 in grades 9‑12 to master essential skills for success in careers, postsecondary education, and community leadership within a global society. We implement the Newark Opportunity Youth Network (NOYN) school model, supporting the unique academic and non‑academic needs of students who have disengaged from traditional schooling. At LEAD Charter School, we are a vibrant school community that holds an unwavering belief in the power of young people to transform their lives and their communities. We are dedicated practitioners of research‑based youth development practices and systems, ensuring every student receives a tailored, personalized, and strengths‑based learning experience. As passionate advocates of opportunity youth, we strive to provide the necessary support and opportunities for our students to succeed.

• "Being at LEAD has accelerated my career trajectory in ways that I could never imagine. I feel valued, supported, and empowered."
• 100% of LEAD staff feel they are trusted as professionals.
• 97% Retention Rate for the 2025‑2026 school year
• 96% of LEAD staff feel supported in their work and professional development.
• 95% of LEAD staff feel they're treated with respect
• 91% of LEAD staff say supervisors encourage feedback and suggestions

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Reading, English or related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
• Valid New Jersey School Certification in English (k‑8 or 9‑12)
• Demonstrated success in supporting underserved populations
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, families, staff and community
• Successful in creating collaborative relationships or coalitions.
• Commitment to OYN school model and implementation with fidelity.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including use of office productivity software.
• Robust analytical skills, with an ability to use data to drive student achievement.
• Capacity to personalize students through differentiation, including use of technology.
• Required criminal history background check, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal resident status & NJ residency.

Reports to: Head of School and/or Instructional Supervisor

• Professional Development: Weekly half‑day sessions tailored to support your professional growth.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities to develop and lead school initiatives and engage in career planning for growth and trajectory.
• Supportive Environment: Work with a dedicated, talented, and supportive staff and empowered school leaders.
• Impact: Contribute to a mission that transforms equity through opportunity for young people in Newark.
• Career Bonus: Yearly Resigning Bonus

• Paid Time Off + Summer Vacation
• Health/Vision/Dental Benefits
• Enrollment in NJ Pension
• HealthEquity (Employer paid HRA debit card)
• 100% Employer Paid Long Term Disability
• 100% Employer Paid Talkspace Access
• Metlife Legal Plan & Identity Protection
• Laptop & Supplies for all staff members
• Training & Professional Development

• Consult frequently with classroom teachers on matters relating to reading instruction using our progress‑monitoring instrument as a base.
• Design interventions and write lesson plans detailing methods and materials.
• Assist in the evaluation of on‑going programs and make recommendations for change.
• Assist teachers and other administrators and/or supervisors in implementing the school reading program (Reading Streets).
• Help teachers diagnose reading strengths and weaknesses and match these skills with appropriate techniques and materials.
• Keep the parents informed as to the purposes and progress of the reading program.
• Work with support staff and school administrators to facilitate the coordination of the reading program with the total curriculum.
• Consult with curriculum committees studying such topics as textbook selection, vocabulary development, concept development, supplementary materials and the development of study skills.
• Promote interest in reading.
• Work with the classroom teacher and district personnel to coordinate reading instruction designed to meet the individual needs of students.
• Work with the classroom teacher to monitor student progress.
• Teach remedial reading as needed.
• Perform other responsibilities as may, from time to time, be assigned by the supervisor.
• Familiar with the RTI process and Tier’d Instruction.

• Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with the board's policy on evaluation.

Position Type: Full‑Time

Salary: $67,000 Per Year

• At least 1 year(s) of relevant experience preferred.
• Bachelor degree preferred.
• Citizenship, residency or work visa required.

• Sarah Elbery
• 201 Bergen Street
• Newark, New Jersey 07103
• Phone: (862) 772-1724
• Email: selbery@oyn-nj.org