The Siena School in Oakton, VA, seeks an experienced reading teacher interested in using small-group instruction, research-based strategies, a multisensory approach, and other best practices to teach reading to students in grades 3-8. The position is part-time for the 2024-25 school year, with anticipated growth to full-time in subsequent years.

Reading is at the center of almost everything we do at Siena. All students at the school take a reading class each year from 3rd through 8th grade, working on comprehension, fluency, and decoding. Additionally, reading is also offered at the high school level. Siena's reading classes are capped at 10 students, with students subdivided into smaller groups according to areas of need. The classes teach phonology, phonemic awareness, decoding and spelling, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, through systematic, structured, and sequential instruction.

Candidates should have a desire to teach the core principles of reading and an interest in ongoing professional development and training, which the school provides. Candidates should have knowledge of dyslexia and instruction for students identified with dyslexia and related disorders. Experience working with students with learning differences preferred. Our teachers design interventions and strategies tailored to each student’s needs.

The Siena School is one of the nation’s leading independent schools serving bright, college-bound students with mild to moderate language-based learning differences, such as dyslexia (www.thesienaschool.org). At The Siena School, teachers encourage students' creative expression, incorporate student interests and passions, and develop critical thinking by creating a vibrant, student-centered environment that supports the learning and personal growth of each student. Siena faculty and staff work collaboratively with students, parents, and professionals to create a nurturing but rigorous learning environment. We are committed to academic excellence, educational innovation, and social justice. We know our children well and engage them daily in exciting, intellectual dialogue. Through individualized, multisensory instruction, students develop critical thinking skills and acquire the tools and strategies needed to become successful and independent learners. A positive learning experience inspires our students to have confidence in themselves and their abilities.

Responsibilities Include:

• Advising students and working with students, parents, and other teachers to fully develop a picture of students’ strengths and learning needs.
• Regular, timely, and consistent communication with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Promoting joyful student engagement and a commitment to the education of students with dyslexia are essential.
• Supporting the school’s mission and culture, promoting a positive, inclusive school climate
• Through a restorative justice lens, supporting student adherence to school expectations
• Establishing and maintaining good relationships with varying stakeholders

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with a strong academic track record and demonstrated career interest in education. Advanced degree and 2-5 years of classroom experience strongly preferred but not required.
• Reading training (e.g. Orton Gillingham, Sounds in Syllables).
• Knowledge in the core processes, skills, and content of reading and its relationship to listening, speaking, and writing.
• Understand the reading process, particularly phonemic awareness, phonics, comprehension, decoding, strategic reading, and the application of these skills.
• Experience teaching specific elements of reading instruction in small groups.
• Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee and is subject to change based on the needs of the school.

Additional Salary Information: The position is salaried with a benefits package including but not limited to health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan, and professional development opportunities.

The Siena School is committed to equitable hiring practices and enthusiastically encourages professionals of all backgrounds to apply.