Literacy First

Start date: November 2nd

Apply on our website: https://utexas.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5BhIgCzBWELTCzY

At Literacy First, we teach young children how to read, equipping them to excel in life and realize their dreams. We view literacy as a human right and envision a world in which every child has the opportunity to become a confident, lifelong reader.

Since 1994, we have partnered with public, Title I elementary schools and community organizations to offer our high-impact, one-to-one tutoring program to emerging readers in kindergarten, first, and second grade. We use an explicit, research-based curriculum of scripted lesson plans to target critical reading skills through daily literacy lessons. Tutors receive training as well as personalized coaching support to feel confident and supported in their role

This is a great opportunity to:

• Strengthen the community by working with youth to build fundamental skills
• Develop professional and leadership skills that will benefit your future career, regardless of your path
• Expand your network and connect with other non-profit organizations in Austin
• Pursue an optional alternative teaching certification through Region 13 during your second year of service *must have a Bachelor’s degree

What's Involved?

• Conduct 30-minute one-on-one tutoring sessions with K-2nd grade students, at your assigned campus using Literacy First curriculum.
• Maintain organized and proper documentation of all lesson plans
• Administer assessments to identify students that qualify for Literacy First tutoring
• Assess and record students’ progress using weekly progress monitoring probes
• Collect and enter student data on our Information Management System
• Attend data meetings with campus staff to communicate student progress
• Build positive, encouraging relationships with students to promote lesson engagement through motivation and behavior support
• Communicate effectively with Literacy First staff, school staff, and teammates
• Attend pre-service training and ongoing literacy trainings throughout the year
• Tutors serve for a 7-month term from November 2, 2026 through May 28, 2027

36 hours per week: Monday - Friday from 7:30 AM to 2:30 PM + one hour of planning and prep per week

Who you are at work:

You enjoy working in an environment where every task contributes to a greater cause

• You thrive in a fast-paced, highly organized setting, where structure supports productivity
• You take responsibility for your work, maintain a professional demeanor, and stay motivated even when faced with challenges
• You manage your time effectively and prioritize tasks
• You are flexible and adapt well to changes in a school-based work environment
• You are resilient and have a growth mindset, with the ability to stay grounded and focused while navigating new situations or systems, seeking support when needed and trusting the process

What you bring to the team:

• You are driven by a desire to make an impact through literacy education and community engagement
• You have a love of learning and are eager to absorb and apply new information
• You value collaboration, and are at your best when working alongside others towards a common goal
• Your proficient computer skills include data entry, electronic calendar use, and email correspondence, and you are able to adapt to new technology platforms quickly
• Most importantly, you have a genuine desire to work with young students aged 5-8, supporting them on their educational journey

AmeriCorps Requirements:

• U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• 17 years or older
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Pass a criminal background check
• Commitment to serve 7 months, November 2, 2026 through May 28, 2027
• This includes daily tutoring, program trainings, and 2 weekend/evening service projects
• AmeriCorps Volunteers can serve 4 terms, we value our returning AmeriCorps Volunteers who serve with the program for multiple years

Additional Considerations:

• Tutors will walk to classrooms on their assigned campus in between tutoring sessions to bring students to and from the tutoring area.
• Tutors will be sitting for most of their work time interacting with students.
• Tutors must be able to direct a lesson and maintain focus in an environment where other tutoring sessions will be taking place and the noise level may be distracting at times.

Benefits

• Monthly living stipend: $2,228.57
• Segal Education Award: $3,697; awarded at the end of completed service term to pay back student loans or pay for future tuition
• Training related to: fundamentals of reading & literacy assessment, behavior management, Salesforce database, data analytics, and more [50+ hours of training in 7-month service term]
• Federal Loan Forbearance
• Childcare Assistance
• Access to an employee assistance program
• University of Texas benefits including free public transportation, access to UT library materials, and free entry into UT museums (Natural History, Blanton Art, & Wildflower Center)
• Professional development activities to prepare you for life after AmeriCorps
• Opportunity for 2nd year AmeriCorps Volunteers with a Bachelor’s degree to earn their teaching certification through a partnership with Region 13

*Literacy First is not responsible for the approval of loan forbearance, interest payment reimbursement, or childcare assistance. AmeriCorps Volunteers must contact their loan provider to see if they qualify for these benefits.

Literacy First is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, national origin, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, genetic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Apply on our website: https://utexas.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5BhIgCzBWELTCzY