Program Coordinator

Overview: Facilitate the effective management of adult literacy programs according to agency standards.

About The Literacy Connection

The Literacy Connection is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping adults acquire fundamental literacy skills by teaching them to read, write, speak and understand English through one-on-one, group and workplace tutoring. Founded in 1983 by Gail Borden Public Library staff, The Literacy Connection now serves 16 northwest Chicago suburban communities. Office is located at the main library branch in downtown Elgin and is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Work schedule and type:

This is an exempt, part time regular employee position with up to 28 hours allowed per week. Hours can be flexible within The Literacy Connection’s open office hours with occasional evenings and weekend hours for adult learner testing or volunteer tutor orientation.

Rate of pay and benefits:

Hourly rate range is $17 to $20 per hour based on experience. No benefits are available for this position other than 7 pro-rated paid holidays over the calendar year.

Specific Duties:

Tutor/Learner Matching and Changes

Create Tutor/Learner matches that will endure while keeping in contact with both the tutor and learner

• Match tutors with basic reader or English as a Second Language learners
• Contact tutor / learner matches on a regular basis
• Follow up with tutor not opening the Tutor Communication and/or not reporting hours regarding status
• Provide Data Manager with current matches and changes to assure that LACES (Literacy, Adult and Community Education System) and other agency systems have accurate data
• Coordinate with Program Assistant to provide learner contact and other assistance as required

Literacy Testing

Ensure efficient and timely Pre- and Post-testing of adult and family literacy learners in a timely fashion along with pre-testing of learners entering the program, including but not limited to:

• Determine appropriate Literacy test to be given to a new/existing learner (agency uses CASAS)
• Coordinate up to 20 assessment dates for all programs for pre- and post-testing on a group basis
• Test new learners prior to the beginning of tutoring or classroom sessions
• Schedule assessments (tests) and match meetings, may be outside of normal office hours
• Coordinate volunteer recruitment to assist with administering testing and learner intake
• Ensure there is a pool of volunteers certified to administer/score assessments
• Monitor changes in testing requirements on a state and national level
• Maintain adequate inventory of paper/electronic testing supplies

Support of Tutors and Learners

Provide Tutors and Learners with support and direction:

• Provide immediate support and feedback to pairs regarding tutoring sessions
• Refer tutors and learners to appropriate personnel and resources as needed
• Provide information for tutors and learners on workshops, in-service training and other events as applicable

Coordinate Family Literacy Programs

Provide school, instructor and learner support for the Family Literacy Program

• Act as liaison to organizations serving as tutoring sites
• Coordinate all activities with supervisor at site
• Maintain good communication with all parties (site, learners, instructors)
• Schedule and conduct assessments and coordinate classes
• Assist in coordinating relevant class presentations from community partners

Conversation Group Administration

Keep an updated schedule of existing conversation groups and help pool volunteers

Other Duties

As are all other positions, there are routine duties and project duties (as assigned) that will be needed

• Complete reports as required (e.g. grant reporting as it relates to programs managed)
• Assist with and attend agency fundraisers as needed
• Keep abreast of the latest ideas on training methods and materials through attendance at local and regional meetings and conferences (as approved by the Executive Director)

Qualifications

• Ability to gain thorough knowledge of materials and resources available for referrals
• Commitment to the mission of the organization
• Demonstrated commitment to high professional ethical standards
• Experience with ESL programs and non-English speaking individuals
• Four-year degree in adult education, counseling, or a related field
• Knowledge of learning disabilities, special needs learners
• Previous experience working with volunteers and adult learners
• Sensitive to the needs of Adult Learners
• Written and spoken Spanish proficiency preferred

Knowledge/Skills

• Ability to adjust working schedule to attend meetings outside normal working hours
• Ability to make maximum use of work time and prioritize assignments
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Ability to manage, supervise and delegate to volunteers and the Program Assistant
• Ability to analyze data and create reports for program improvement
• Computer proficiency Microsoft Office Suite, database management and agency-used programs
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills and a collaborative style

Tools/Equipment

• Desktop computer, laptop computer, copier, fax machine, printer, telephone, computer applications (LACES, Google docs, Constant Contact, Signup preferred)

Physical Demands/Work Environment

• Ability to lift and carry testing materials, books or small equipment not exceeding 50 lbs
• Must drive a car, have a valid driver's license and valid automobile insurance for travel to offsite locations

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Literacy Connection values diversity and equality and voluntarily follows a policy of creating a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. The Literacy Connection has adopted respect and fairness as its core values. We comply with the spirit of the employment laws as a matter of ethics and conscience, and we comply with all applicable law