Boys And Girls Clubs Of·Orlando, Florida
The Academic Specialist delivers intensive, evidence-based literacy and academic support to youth members in Kindergarten through second grade. This role involves developing learning plans, administering diagnostic assessments, and collaborating with schools and families to improve academic outcomes.
TITLE: Academic Specialist
Performance profile source: Individual Contributor
Department: Operations
Reports to: Director of Academic Success
Flsa status: Non-Exempt
Worker category: Part-Time
Employment term: Grant-Funded position for the 2026–2027 School Year
Employment function: Professional
The Academic Specialist helps youth Club members build the literacy foundation that shapes their entire academic future.
In partnership with the REED Charitable Foundation (RCF), this role delivers intensive, evidence-based literacy and academic support to members in Kindergarten through second grade, the years when learning to read determines whether a child can later read to learn.
Through group instruction, project-based and high-yield learning experiences, and individualized academic learning plans, the Academic Specialist meets each member exactly where they are and moves them forward.
This position administers diagnostic and progress-monitoring assessments, analyzes the results to sharpen instruction, and reports measurable growth to BGCCF leadership, the Club site, and RCF.
The Academic Specialist creates a learning environment where children feel safe taking academic risks, building the confidence, curiosity, and persistence that carry far beyond the Club.
By partnering with local schools, families, and community organizations, the Academic Specialist helps close opportunity gaps and advances the shared mission of BGCCF and the REED Charitable Foundation: ensuring every child has the skills and support to reach their full potential.
Qualification requirements: (Knowledge, Education, Experience & Skills)
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in education, literacy, or a related field, or a combination of education and relevant work experience.
Instructional and Literacy Expertise
Applies evidence-based early literacy and academic intervention practices to deliver small-group and individual instruction for members in Kindergarten through second grade.
Stays current on literacy curriculum, intervention strategies, and youth development practices, and applies them to daily programming.
Drives Engagement
Creates a supportive, encouraging learning environment where members want to participate, take academic risks, and recognize their own progress.
Provides instruction, constructive feedback, and recognition that keep members motivated across a variety of program areas and activities.
Plans and Aligns
Coordinates intervention schedules, program calendars, materials, and supplies so that academic support is delivered consistently and without disrupting Club programming.
Establishes program objectives that are consistent with BGCCF and REED Charitable Foundation goals, the Boys & Girls Club Movement, and the Youth Development Strategy.
Ensures Accountability
Maintains accurate learning plans, case files, attendance and participation records, and progress reports, and submits them on time.
Operates programs within established budgetary guidelines and follows through on commitments to supervisors, funding partners, families, and Club members.
Collaborates
Partners with Club staff, school personnel, families, community organizations, and the REED Charitable Foundation team to align literacy supports and share member progress.
Communicates member needs and progress clearly and professionally, and seeks input from supervisors and partners to strengthen academic outcomes.
The position requires working in both indoor and outdoor environments of an office or club setting, which may involve exposure to varying weather conditions.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating instructions, and policy manuals.
Required to operate a motor vehicle for on-site club assignments, events, or required meetings.
Work in environments frequented by children and families, requiring adherence to safety and conduct standards that ensure a child-friendly and family-oriented atmosphere.
This role will have a standard and predictable work schedule. However, all staff must be adaptable to a dynamic work schedule, including evenings and weekends, to support club activities and events.
The information presented in this job description is intended to illustrate the nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and objectives required of employees assigned to this job. Job responsibilities and requirements are subject to change based on the direction of the organization & CEO.
Submission of an application does not create an obligation for BGCCF to provide individual status updates. Our hiring managers carefully review all applications received, and only candidates selected to move forward will be contacted regarding next steps.
Due to the high volume of applications, BGCCF is unable to respond to emails or calls requesting updates on application status. Applicants who repeatedly contact BGCCF HR or BGCCF staff to request status updates, or who email staff members with whom they do not have an existing professional relationship solely to announce that they have applied, may be removed from consideration and have their application archived.
If you have an existing professional connection with BGCCF, you are welcome to reach out to that contact directly for networking purposes. However, all candidates must still follow the formal application and selection process outlined in this posting.
Please see the link below to the new Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse Education and Awareness website. This site was implemented under the directive of House Bill 531 (2025).
Market context
Florida academic specialist openings typically emphasize literacy support, student data analysis, and collaboration with diverse learners in educational settings. Candidates are more competitive when they can demonstrate the required degree, at least two years of relevant experience, and examples of using data to guide instruction. Before applying, review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits from the original job description to save research time and confirm fit.