Reading Scholars Instructor, Brookline Public Schools (Brookline, MA)
Posted September 23, 2025
Job Description
Overview of the ELE Program:
The Brookline Public Schools’ pre-K-12 English Language Education (ELE) Department enrolls over 750 English learners (ELs) from around the world annually. We run a number of programs including English classes for parents / caregivers, a speaker series, and an English learner parent council. The Reading Scholars (RS) Program is offered to our youngest students, typically from grades 1-5. This program aims to support ELs on their reading journey and to inspire ELs to enjoy reading in English by building fluency and confidence. In addition, this program allows ELs to meet other students, practice conversational English skills, and enjoy some social time after school.
We limit RS enrollment to English learners in grades 1-5. We are flexible re: which grade spans would be involved in any given year. We try to group students by age and also by English proficiency.
RS is typically held at the Brookline Public Library (see below) and it is expected that instructors will work in conjunction with the childrens’ librarian.
Position details:
- One day/week after school for 2-3 hours. Instructors are expected to arrive by 2:30.
- We hope to offer fall, winter, and spring sessions of approximately 5 weeks/session. This can be negotiated with the candidate(s).
- The enrollment typically changes each session although some students may choose to stay in the program for multiple sessions
- The day of the week can be flexible to accommodate the instructor’s schedule. The only day that would not work would be Friday because the library closes early.
- RS is typically held at the Brookline Public Library Main Branch on Washington Street, accessible by the green D line (Brookline Village or Brookline Hills)
Candidates:
We are seeking an instructor / instructors for the Reading Scholars Program who have a passion for reading instruction and enjoy working with young children. Experience is preferred but not required. This job could be shared by two instructors who would work collaboratively and run the reading groups together. There is flexibility and room for creativity in the planning of the lessons, provided that the program goals (as stated above) are met. In the past, instructors have done read-alouds, art and science projects related to a particular book or theme, role plays, etc. Each hour-long reading group session must be well-planned with fun, interactive, and engaging activities to reach each child. Candidates must be responsible, punctual, and reliable.
We expect that all lessons will address the development of one or more of the 5 components of reading:
- Phonemic awareness
- Phonics
- Fluency
- Vocabulary
- Comprehension
In addition, it is expected that instructors will provide opportunities for oral communication in each lesson.
Compensation: $22/ hour
Materials:
Instructors and participants will have full access to the Brookline Public Library’s collection and resources. In addition, instructors may request that the ELE Department purchase materials to enhance the program. The ELE Department will provide all materials and supplies.
How to Apply:
To ask questions and/or to apply for this position, please send an email of interest (including relevant qualifications) to:
Betsy Davis, Family and Community Engagement Coordinator
Brookline Public Schools ELE Department