About this role
Position Summary The Nashua-Plainfield Community School District is seeking a dedicated, patient, and student-centered 1:1 Reading Associate to provide individualized reading support for students requiring targeted literacy intervention. The successful candidate will work closely with classroom teachers, interventionists, special education staff, and administrators to implement research-based reading strategies that promote student growth in foundational literacy skills, reading fluency, comprehension, and overall academic success. The 1:1 Reading Associate will foster positive relationships with students while creating a supportive learning environment that encourages confidence, independence, and a love of reading. Qualifications Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate's degree or completion of post-secondary coursework in education or a related field preferred. Certification: Iowa Paraeducator Certification (or ability to obtain certification upon hire) required. Experience
• Previous experience working with elementary or secondary students is preferred.
• Experience supporting reading instruction or literacy interventions is desirable.
• Experience working with students with diverse learning needs is beneficial.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
• Knowledge of foundational reading skills and literacy development.
• Ability to implement instructional strategies as directed by licensed staff.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student information.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary educational team.
• Patience, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to individual student needs.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and supportive learning environment.
Technology Requirements
• Basic proficiency with Google Workspace for Education.
• Ability to utilize district-approved educational software and literacy intervention programs.
• Basic knowledge of educational technology used for reading instruction.
• Ability to maintain accurate electronic student records as assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities Student Support
• Provide one-on-one reading support and intervention under the direction of licensed instructional staff.
• Assist students in developing foundational literacy skills including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
• Reinforce classroom instruction through guided practice and individualized support.
• Encourage student engagement, confidence, and independence in reading activities.
• Monitor student participation and provide feedback to supervising teachers regarding student progress.
Instructional Support
• Implement reading intervention plans developed by classroom teachers, interventionists, or special education staff.
• Prepare instructional materials and organize learning resources.
• Assist with administering reading assessments and progress monitoring as directed.
• Support students during classroom literacy instruction when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate documentation of student participation and progress.
Learning Environment
• Create a positive, safe, and encouraging environment that promotes student learning.
• Reinforce classroom expectations and positive behavior supports.
• Supervise students during instructional activities while ensuring student safety.
• Assist students in maintaining organization and readiness for learning.
Collaboration
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers, reading specialists, special education staff, instructional coaches, and administrators.
• Participate in meetings and training sessions as assigned.
• Communicate professionally with school staff regarding student needs and progress.
• Support district and building initiatives focused on literacy achievement.
Professional Responsibilities
• Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct consistent with Iowa law, Board policy, and district expectations.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information.
• Participate in required professional development and in-service training.
• Maintain regular attendance and punctuality.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by administration.
Physical Requirements
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods throughout the school day.
• Ability to assist students in classroom and school settings.
• Ability to lift and move instructional materials and supplies up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to supervise students in classrooms, hallways, and other school environments.
Working Conditions
• Classroom and school environments.
• Frequent interaction with students requiring individualized instructional support.
• Regular use of computers, educational technology, and instructional materials.
• Occasional participation in school events, meetings, or professional development outside the regular workday.
Terms of Employment Work year, hours, salary, and benefits are established by the Nashua-Plainfield Community School District Board of Education and applicable board policy. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks and verification of required certification. Equal Employment Opportunity The Nashua-Plainfield Community School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal or Iowa law. The District is committed to providing an inclusive educational and work environment for all students and employees. FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Classification: Classified Support Staff Reports To: Building Principal and Superintendent