Provincial Literacy Lead (Education Officer 3)

About Us

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (EECD) is leading the transformation of the early years and public education system in Nova Scotia. We are doing this by designing an innovative curriculum, facilitating excellence in teaching and learning, ensuring an inclusive education experience, and working closely with our partners in education. This will provide children, students, and families with a strong foundation for success. This department is a perfect fit for those that want to be part of the future of public education in the province by supporting student learning in a progressive and responsive policy environment.

About Our Opportunity

The Education Officer, Provincial Literacy Lead supports the provincial literacy strategy, inclusive education policy, and the ongoing work of consultation and leadership in literacy education at all grade levels, with a concentration on Primary – Grade 6.  The Education Officer leads and works collaboratively with the provincial literacy team and EECD colleagues to support the design and the implementation of curricula, implementation of research-based instructional and assessment strategies, and the design and selection of learning resources. 

The Education Officer works with the regional centres of education, the CSAP, and department team members to support student success in literacy, inclusive of strategies to address achievement for all learners.  The provincial literacy lead also works with key collaborative groups such as teacher work groups, universities, various departments and agencies, professional associations and organizations, and advocacy groups to ensure achievement in literacy for all learners through strong, inclusive curricula and high-leverage teaching practices.

This position reports to the Director of Curriculum Development.

Primary Accountabilities

The provincial lead will lead the development and implementation of curricula and research-proven instructional and assessment strategies as part of the successful implementation of the literacy strategy.  

• Facilitate and lead various aspects of Public-School Program, P- 12, including curricula and resource development
• Support the Public-School Program through developing, directing, and conducting professional learning and implementation sessions primarily with teams and partners.
• Perform administrative duties and required procedures e.g. research, review and maintain data, correspondence, reports (Highly developed research skills are necessary for conducting in-depth literature scans and original research related to the design and support of the provincial literacy strategy.)
• Make recommendations to support literacy for all learners
• Provide consultative services, networking, and professional development

Qualifications and Experience

We are looking for someone who is a proven educational leader, who wants to be part of an innovative team, and who will make a difference!

To be successful in this role you have a Bachelor of Education and a Master’s degree in education (preferably in a Literacy) plus 8 years related experience in elementary and literacy teaching, or an equivalent Teacher Certification, and 8 years related experience will be considered. 

You have experience in an education leadership role, and the ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with groups and individuals with diverse or competing interests or perspectives.

You have outstanding communication skills (verbal and written), strong research skills and are proficient using Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Outlook, Power-Point) and presentation skills. You are also well organized, detailed-oriented and can multi-task while balancing multiple priorities.

You have strong decision-making and leadership skills, and you are effective at developing and maintaining effective working relationships with diverse groups and individuals. 

You also have:

• Extensive knowledge of Nova Scotia English Language Arts Curriculum
• Skill and ability in the use of technology to support literacy learning, including Moodle and GSuite

Assets considered for this position:

• Bilingualism
• Bachelor’s Degree, Major in English or Child and Youth Study or related field
• Extensive knowledge of Nova Scotia English Language Arts Curriculum
• Skill and ability in the use of technology to support literacy learning
• Credentials in project management
• Regional and/or national literacy community affiliation

We will assess the above qualifications and competencies using on or more of the following tools: oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Public Service Superannuation Plan | Nova Scotia Public Service Superannuation Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short- and Long-Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.  For information on all our Benefit program offerings, click here: Benefits for government employees - Government of Nova Scotia 

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths for Nova Scotians.
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.