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Job outlook for literacy consultants in the United States
Are literacy consultant jobs in demand?
Literacy consultant job and salary trends over time
Literacy consultant jobs over time
Literacy consultant job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 528 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 592 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 717 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 797 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 837 | 0.00% |
Average literacy consultant salary over time
Literacy consultant salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $83,694 | $40.24 | +1.8% |
| 2024 | $82,182 | $39.51 | +1.3% |
| 2023 | $81,093 | $38.99 | +2.9% |
| 2022 | $78,779 | $37.87 | +2.9% |
| 2021 | $76,587 | $36.82 | +0.7% |
Literacy consultant jobs by state
Most common states for literacy consultants
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 348 | 17% |
| 2 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 150 | 17% |
| 3 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 237 | 13% |
| 4 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 568 | 11% |
| 5 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 546 | 11% |
| 6 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 515 | 9% |
| 7 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 368 | 9% |
| 8 | Mississippi | 2,984,100 | 263 | 9% |
| 9 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 63 | 9% |
| 10 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 205 | 3% |
| 11 | Vermont | 623,657 | 19 | 3% |
| 12 | California | 39,536,653 | 672 | 2% |
| 13 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 199 | 2% |
| 14 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 154 | 2% |
| 15 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 153 | 2% |
| 16 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 94 | 2% |
| 17 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 71 | 2% |
| 18 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 30 | 2% |
| 19 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 27 | 2% |
| 20 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 22 | 2% |
Literacy Consultant job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of literacy consultant experts
Sul Ross State University
Athens State University
University of Mississippi
Southern Oregon University
American University
Missouri State University
Indiana University Bloomington
Southwestern College
The Edward R. Murrow College
American University
Skyline College
Pennsylvania State University - Berks
Shawnee State University
Augsburg University
University of Kentucky
Manhattanville College
Western Carolina University
Gwynedd Mercy University
Augusta University
Jeanne Qvarnstrom Ed.D.
Professor of EducationSul Ross State University
Teacher Education And Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
What will help Literacy Consultants increase their earning potential?
Jeanne Qvarnstrom Ed.D.: Looking ahead to the next 3 - 5 years, I believe that collaborative skills are essential for success in the workplace. Furthermore, critical thinking, problem solving, organization, writing proficiency, research, and time management skills are important. Since new information in all fields is expanding every day, research skills are essential for success. Also, time management is especially critical, because students have to create a healthy work-life balance for themselves in order to be successful personally and professionally. We survey our graduates each semester, and we are proud that our students report that the coursework enhanced their research and writing skills.
What general advice would you give to a Literacy Consultant?
Jeanne Qvarnstrom Ed.D.: Looking ahead to the next 3 - 5 years, I believe that collaborative skills are essential for success in the workplace. Furthermore, critical thinking, problem solving, organization, writing proficiency, research, and time management skills are important. Since new information in all fields is expanding every day, research skills are essential for success. Also, time management is especially critical, because students have to create a healthy work-life balance for themselves in order to be successful personally and professionally. We survey our graduates each semester, and we are proud that our students report that the coursework enhanced their research and writing skills.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jeanne Qvarnstrom Ed.D.: In seeking a position, think outside of the box. Consider advertised positions in your specialization and/or the field of education. The four common courses for the degree give students a grounding in research, multiculturalism, historical trends in education and human development. In interviews and cover letters, demonstrate your passion for your field. Try to exhibit a level of confidence yet humbleness in recognizing there is always something to learn. Once on the job, seek a mentor, if your company does not provide one. Relationships are very important for success. Networking in professional and community organizations is also important to build contacts.
Dr. Nicole Henderson
Assistant Professor of Special EducationAthens State University
Education
What general advice would you give to a Literacy Consultant?
Dr. Nicole Henderson: Forge connections strategically! As you embark on your journey as a budding educator, consider proactively promoting yourself. Engage in job fairs, initiate conversations with school principals, and always ensure you have a polished resume or contact information card at your fingertips. During your student internship, take the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the school's leadership, including the principal and other administrators. Embrace a collaborative spirit, demonstrating a willingness to go above and beyond. Word travels fast among educators in different districts, so make a lasting positive impression on everyone you encounter.
Furthermore, don't feel pressured to immediately accept the first job offer that comes your way. Take the time to assess your options and request a day for reflection before committing. Prioritize understanding the school culture; speak to fellow teachers and parents to gauge whether it aligns with your professional goals and values.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Nicole Henderson: Navigating the landscape of education often offers limited flexibility in negotiating salaries, as raises are commonly tied to factors like years of experience and attained degrees. Nevertheless, distinctions in salary structures exist across various school districts. Accessible to the public, salary bands for public school educators can be found on the district's website. Ensure you conduct thorough research on this information before committing to a position, empowering yourself with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your compensation.
What will help Literacy Consultants increase their earning potential?
Dr. Nicole Henderson: The imperative skill of catering to diverse learning needs remains a constant across all grade levels. Given the growing population eligible for special education, the skill of differentiating instruction to include all learners in the classroom is increasingly vital. Moreover, the ability to collaborate with educators from various disciplines for effective instructional planning is an enduring and crucial skill. In addition, the ever-changing and diverse educational landscape demands that educators develop a nuanced understanding of trauma and cultural responsiveness. Being trauma-informed and culturally responsive is pivotal in navigating the evolving dynamics within our country's schools. Thus, teachers are tasked with staying attuned to these transformative aspects to provide inclusive and effective education.
Macey Edmondson Ph.D., J.D.
Assistant Professor, Graduate Program Coordinator, Ed.D. Faculty DirectorUniversity of Mississippi
Education
What general advice would you give to a Literacy Consultant?
Macey Edmondson Ph.D., J.D.: The ability to communicate clearly and effectively, paired with the knowledge of AI to streamline tasks, will make graduates more appealing in the workplace. Understanding how AI may help in efficiency and automation, accessibility, content creation, and research assistance (along with the ethical considerations of using artificial intelligence in the workplace) will put new graduates ahead of those not exposed to these features. Just as important, with the increase in technology use, which can be good but also prohibits communication directly with others, communicating effectively with various audiences (parents, students, and administrators) is a skill that is highly desired. To add more skills to the workplace toolbox, look for competency-based microcredentials that can easily be added in a short amount of time at low costs.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Macey Edmondson Ph.D., J.D.: When you begin your career, do not hesitate to negotiate your salary. This can be difficult in the education field but think outside the box and determine whether you can seek one-time costs, such as moving expenses, a continuing education budget, or summer stipends for research or furthering education goals. Also, do your homework. What are others in your field making at similar institutions? Do not be afraid to compare and contrast similar positions to use as leverage in your negotiations.
What will help Literacy Consultants increase their earning potential?
Macey Edmondson Ph.D., J.D.: I advise students to think about how the skills they learned in college can transfer to just about any workplace. Graduates typically have advanced research and writing capabilities, critical thinking skills, and the ability to organize and communicate. Graduates are resilient and can respond to complex tasks in the workplace. Be sure to market these skills on your resume and in your interview. Be prepared for your interviews and understand how you would be a good fit in their workplace. What skills will you bring to the table, and does it match the job description? Once you land the job, be mindful of work-life balance. It is great to be excited about a new career in education, but do not get burned out too quickly. Find a mentor quickly and be willing to learn new practices as you begin your career.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Danné Davis: There are many but I'll offer these: Proficient use of assistive, informational, and instructional technology. Most educators have a hard time keeping up with the tools and changes in tech. Too often the tools and resources are banned, blocked or underutilized. Teachers unable to identify and implement 21st-century tools do a disservice to their students. Bombarded with so much misinformation, disinformation, and "fake news," it is essential for educators to possess critical literacy skills and develop the same in students. Critical literacy concerns itself with the analysis, questioning, critiquing, and challenging of texts-regardless of history, context, tradition. The aim is to unpack the myriad social, cultural, and political forces that have established and continue to contribute to enduring skewed and hegemonic interpretations. The Brazilian educator and philosopher, Paolo Freire, is most often credited with coining the turn of phrase, critical literacy. Love. It may sound hokey, with some people relegating it to an emotion not a skill but educators can and must learn how to practice love. bell hooks describes love as an ethical act that is key to eradicating racism, hate, and disregard for humanity. When educators love their students, educators will see the value, worth, and promise of EVERY student regardless of their race, creed, ability, language, religion, identity. In so doing, educators will provide meaningful learning opportunities that position young people to become healthy, happy, knowledgeable, and well-informed human beings. The celebrated work of Rev. Dr. MLK Jr, stems from an ethos of love as well. Financial literacy is another skill needed today and for the future.
What will help Literacy Consultants increase their earning potential?
Danné Davis: Ask for more. Often people entering the profession simply accept an initial contract or job position subsequently closing themselves to negotiation. Find the courage and words to request more money, a better classroom location, arrangement or teaching assignment. Even amid a teacher shortage-if you are bringing the aforementioned skills or another strength that sets you apart from the applicant pool, don't hesitate to ask for more-money, supplies, training/professional development, bonuses, grants. I especially urge women to negotiate for more money or a higher salary.
Amy Belcastro Ph.D.
Professor of EducationSouthern Oregon University
Educational Administration And Supervision
What general advice would you give to a Literacy Consultant?
Amy Belcastro Ph.D.: One way would be to do the research to understand what is needed and then to specialize in high-demand areas. You can specialize through experience and demonstrate the impact of your work to enhance your marketability and salary potential. Or you can do this by adding professional development opportunities like by attending conferences and pursuing further education in the form of Degrees or Credentials/Badges like the ones we have at Southern Oregon University. Then you will want to effectively negotiate your salary by making it clear that your knowledge and skills are a good return on investment.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Amy Belcastro Ph.D.: In the next 3-5 years, I believe that education leaders will need to continuously learn and adapt in our rapidly changing world, especially in areas of technological proficiency, AI, adaptive leadership, cultural competence, social-emotional intelligence, and innovation. This will require a growth mindset and a willingness to take risks.
Jennifer Steele
Associate Professor, School of Education, Affiliate Faculty, Department of Public Administration and PolicyAmerican University
School of Education
What skills stand out on Literacy Consultant resumes?
Jennifer Steele: Based on the experiences of recent graduates of the M.Ed. Program in Education Policy and Leadership at American University and my previous experiences hiring individuals with master's degrees in education policy, the skills that often stand out are those in data collection and analysis, including survey data, interview data, and administrative data. In terms of data analytics software, graduates tell me that employers in education policy are largely seeking candidates with skills in Stata and Excel. For advanced statistical analysis and programming positions, skills in R or Python can also be an advantage. Data visualization and communication skills are also highly valued. Employers seek candidates who can use data to tell a compelling story through easy-to-understand graphs, well-designed slides, and clear writing accessible to many audiences.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Literacy Consultants?
Jennifer Steele: Graduates need the abilities:
-to frame questions that are answerable with data,
-to know where and how to locate the relevant data, and
-to understand how to analyze and explain the data to a broad array of stakeholders, including communities and families and senior leaders and policymakers.
What skills will help Literacy Consultants earn the most?
Jennifer Steele: Just as analytic and legal skills command wage premia in the broader labor market, they are often associated with earnings advantages in the education policy and leadership market. Still, locating earnings data from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics for careers in education policy and leadership can be challenging, as these careers are not traditional teaching or school principal jobs but are instead about managing education regulations, curriculum, staffing, budgets, measurement, etc. As such, it can be useful to examine the earnings and job description data on various management careers in the social, government, and non-profit arenas to get an idea of the work involved and the kinds of earnings that graduates can expect, depending on their level of experience and where they live.
What type of skills will young Literacy Consultants need?
Dr. Stephanie Hein: Adaptability, creativity, and flexibility will be essential to navigating the hospitality place. New graduates will need to possess strong financial and cost control skills to help their companies survive and thrive post-COVID. On the flip side, they will need to innovate and look for ways to help their organization do business in new ways.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Literacy Consultants to find work opportunities?
Dr. Stephanie Hein: Yes, there are niches of opportunities, if you know where to look. In the current market, resorts with large outdoor spaces are realizing excellent occupancy percentages. Additionally, the limited-service and economy lodging segments are performing much better than full-service hotels right now. For those interested in food and beverage, there are restaurant concepts that are performing well. Most of the restaurant companies that are doing well have figured out how to maximize carryout or to-go business. Finally, in the event space, more demand will be needed for individuals who can help meeting planners effectively deliver engaging programming in a hybrid manner. Again, this is where creativity and innovation will be critical.
What general advice would you give to a Literacy Consultant?
Benjamin Robinson Ph.D.: I'd tell a graduate setting out on their career two things: one, attempt the impossible; two, be realistic. I mean that graduates should remember the big questions and the ideals of the college, think of society and its challenges, and not just accept the status quo. We badly need renewal and positive change in our world, and we are looking to new adults to lead that change.
At the same time, everyone has to live and take care of themselves, which requires pragmatism. For that, students need to remember critical thinking skills, understanding, and defending arguments, knowledge and negotiating conflicts, distinguishing right from wrong, connecting past and present, and envisioning the future. Those skills are what many jobs need, whether one is going into healthcare or management, into social media or social work.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Literacy Consultants in the next 3-5 years?
Benjamin Robinson Ph.D.: In the next 3-5 years, social media and online content will continue to grow in importance. There will likely be more of a demand for machine learning and understanding how information flows on the internet and what it means. The linguistic and interpretation skills of a humanities major, such as German Studies, will be necessary.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Literacy Consultants, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Benjamin Robinson Ph.D.: The last data I have for IU mean starting salaries by College major had Germanic Studies as the 5th most lucrative major, earning $48,900. The world at large values the humanistic skills and temperaments that our grads bring to it.
Michael Wickert
Professor of English and Education, Coordinator Liberal Studies/ Teacher EducationSouthwestern College
Department of English and Education
What type of skills will young Literacy Consultants need?
Michael Wickert: In the coming years, teachers will need many of the same people skills and understanding of the curriculum they have always required. However, the Covid 19 shut down and move to remote learning has shown teachers need to be reasonably proficient with the hardware and software associated with teaching and learning. This includes the ability to use mobile technology. From what I have seen, teachers often need to teach their students how to use those programs, so it isn't merely that teachers can use the tech, but they also need to effectively teach their students and families how to use it well.
While working in this remote format, it is essential to find ways to balance academic rigor and expectations to be compassionate and helpful from a distance. We are not near our students, where we can observe body language and change in students' tone when they talk. This makes it challenging to recognize when students need personal attention that is such a critical component of teaching.
When we return to campus, it will be essential for teachers to understand how students integrate best into the new way of being on campus. We are undergoing a massive change in our society right now. Those changes (and divisions) will need to be addressed in ways that help students connect with the curriculum, rebuild social structures, and see school as a safe place to grow and catch up where necessary.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Literacy Consultants to find work opportunities?
Michael Wickert: At this time, we see older teachers across the country leave the field for several reasons. One crucial cause is that some teachers have difficulty converting their in-person teaching styles and classrooms to an online environment. Other reasons are because of general changes in curriculum, teaching methodologies, and demands of the job. This is good news for new teachers because many schools are looking to reinvigorate their districts and schools with a new sense of enthusiasm, and newly-credentialed teachers can fulfill that need.
Even though there are openings in large cities, more affluent districts are more challenging to get into. Therefore, being open to working in high-needs areas such as bilingual education, special education, STEAM, and schools in low socio-economic regions will improve employment opportunities. Still, districts and charter schools in our cities are always looking for good teachers, so no one should be discouraged.
Also, rural areas in the United States need teachers. When students go away to college, they often move to cities or larger communities and decide to stay in those places, making it difficult for some schools and districts to find high-quality teachers for students in those areas. Both veteran and newly credentialed teachers interested in moving to rural areas will likely find that they can fill positions that desperately need to be filled. Any teacher considering such a move will need to check local credential requirements, since not all credentials are valid in a state outside of where it was issued. It might also be a good idea to visit the area and meet with people from the district and community to understand their needs better.
How do you envision technology impacting Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Michael Wickert: As we have seen every day for months, educational technology has become critical to teaching and learning. Even before moving to remote learning in March of this year, many teachers (k-16) were creating web-enhanced class activities through flipped classrooms, use of LMS such as Canvas, Blackboard, and Google Classroom. There are definite benefits to this because it allows us to take the classroom anywhere with an internet connection. That also means that many teachers are unable to draw a line between their professional and personal time.
Still, as we use Open Education Resources (OERs), digital libraries, take virtual field trips. And even work through fully or partially online school programs, the nature of teaching and learning is discovering new possibilities. The danger is when education software is used to replace teachers and good teaching. Of course, there are some excellent programs for learning, but when we take away the human element, students are given information and work, but it isn't the same as going to school because school is about so much more than doing classwork and taking tests. Ultimately, teaching is a very humanistic endeavor, and good education requires the right blend of both the science and art of teaching.
As we learn to use educational technology and platforms to democratize education, we must keep in mind that improving those platforms to reach all students is a must. The possibilities of using ed tech in positive ways are so exciting because our students today will improve that technology before we know it, and that can lead to exciting innovations that are mere science fiction today. Hopefully, those in charge of improving our educational technology do so with the intent of improving education for all, not just for those who can afford it.
What general advice would you give to a Literacy Consultant?
Sara Stout: We are seeing that students are not taking advantage of opportunities to grow in their career preparedness. The number of students that are in internships for credit is down from last fall, and we are not seeing students apply for the opportunities that we are posting. This is all due to Covid and the belief and hope that things will return to "normal" soon. However, the industry is moving forward, and our students could be falling behind. This is a national trend, and Murrow students are following right along.
I advise Murrow grads to take advantage of remote opportunities, seek career advising from our Professional Advisor-Angela Schweigert, update their LinkedIn, and take on projects that will add to their portfolio. Becoming job-ready, even now, is essential. It looks very different than it did a year ago.
How would you rate the starting salaries for Literacy Consultants, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?
Sara Stout: Acquiring a Bachelors's degree is the foundational need in Communication. Starting salaries may be lower in some fields (in the 30,000 range), but in Strategic Communication, we see starting wages a little higher ($40,000 plus). It is a very competitive market, but Covid has slowed it down.
My quote would be:
"2020 and 2021 college grads in the field of Communication should keep moving forward to prepare for a new world of work. Being able to work remotely, sharpening writing skills, and the ability to communicate via different modes of technology is going to be key to finding a position right out of college."
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Literacy Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Andrew Demshuk Ph.D.: I sense that the pandemic will not be suitable for the market, which was also challenging beforehand. Universities were already dealing with many shortfalls, and financial woes from the epidemic might freeze the market for some time to come.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Literacy Consultants in the next 3-5 years?
Andrew Demshuk Ph.D.: Technology, such as Zoom, may remain more integral to the academic world after the pandemic. However, I hope that live interaction resumes with much force, since so many of the best scholarly exchanges happen in less formal settings, such as the "lunch before the conference panel," which can't happen in a Zoom setting in the same way.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Andrew Demshuk Ph.D.: I hope we have a greater demand for graduates and a more generous supply of tenure-track (rather than term or adjunct) jobs, but I am, unfortunately. skeptical that this will happen.
Alexa Moore
Job Placement Coordinator for Society & EducationSkyline College
Department of Strategic Partnerships & Workforce Development
What experience really stands out on Literacy Consultant resumes?
Alexa Moore: I would say any experience relevant to the job you are currently applying for, and highlight not only tasks or responsibilities you completed in that role but also accomplishments. Making sure what you list also includes transferable skills that will be beneficial in the work that you will be doing.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alexa Moore: I would recommend staying relevant in technology and computer software programs as most companies are always looking for these skills. For example, knowing basic Microsoft Office programs and Google Suites will be something that is always valued and needed. There are many software programs to consider, mainly depending on the individual's industry in building your skill sets. A great way to do this is by taking advantage of free or discounted courses being offered now because of the pandemic, but also LinkedIn Learning is a great way to build new skills or enhance your current skills at your own pace.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Literacy Consultants in the next 3-5 years?
Alexa Moore: Technology is consistently advancing, but currently, there are several trends, including artificial intelligence, extended reality (virtual reality), and autonomous driving, and so much more. It would be hard for me to determine the most critical technology and prevalence in all fields as it will vary by industry and the work that you do, so that would need more research. I know that technology is not going anywhere, so staying relevant, overall, in technology within your industry, and in the world of the technology itself, will help keep you up to speed.
What experience really stands out on Literacy Consultant resumes?
Michele Ramsey Ph.D.: It is essential for communication majors that they communicate what they learned in their majors and how it applies to the job they are seeking. The word "communication" is abstract. It's often also conflated "communications," which are majors linked more closely to mass media. So communication majors need to effectively and succinctly communicate what they've learned in their courses.
Our graduates regularly report that once they've explained that their major focused on human communication and areas such as organizational communication, interpersonal communication, conflict management, social influence, gender, intercultural communication, and other fundamental courses in our discipline, employers are very interested in hearing about what they've learned.
As my co-author and I noted in our book, Major Decisions: College, Career, and the Case for the Humanities, the skills learned in communication majors are often called "soft skills," but they're CORE skills and knowledge that are at the top of every list of most desired skills, according to employers. Some of the top ten skills are collaboration, interpersonal communication, written and verbal communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, diversity, inclusivity, equality, and leadership.
So what all of this means for students is that they need to find ways to effectively, clearly, and succinctly communicate how many of these core skills and knowledge they've garnered in their majors, and make those connections for employers very clear. Employers can teach most majors the basics of most jobs, but the areas that set communication graduates apart are not so easily led. Thus employers tend to be excited about the prospect of hiring graduates so far ahead of the curve.
What Literacy Consultant skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Michele Ramsey Ph.D.: First, I'd encourage them to think carefully about taking a gap year because jobs are not plentiful right now and so I'm not sure they'd be able to garner too much valuable experience in that year. But I understand that, for some students, that choice gets made for them, so if they do have to take a gap year, I will encourage them to keep track of how they used their major in their work so that they can talk about that gap year as allowing them to practice what they've learned in the major and to put it to use.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Literacy Consultants in the next 3-5 years?
Michele Ramsey Ph.D.: Aside from just the need to work in a variety of contexts, students are going to stand out if they are beyond proficient in things like Microsoft Suite. There's a difference between creating a PowerPoint presentation and creating an effective PowerPoint presentation. There's a difference between understanding the basics of Microsoft Word and creating mail merges in the program.
One of the things we learned in our research for the Major Decisions book was that the technology field is filled with humanities majors making great strides in that industry precisely because they understand the importance of the human side of what makes technology function well and succeed. These majors are what we call the "invisible partners" of technology, and thus, students interested in jobs in tech should consider learning something about programming and how technology functions, either through things like coding boot camps or minors in things like information science and technology.
Dr. Kimberly Cassidy
Director, Masters Programs/CoordinatorShawnee State University
School of Education
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Literacy Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Kimberly Cassidy: Taking the pandemic into consideration, I would expect to see a greater need for teachers with significantly advanced computer/software/online skills. Someone tech-savvy will be in great demand, as well as a teacher who can be creative and keep students engaged in a virtual classroom setting. Flexibility will be critical in our ever-changing education environment.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Literacy Consultants in the next 3-5 years?
Dr. Kimberly Cassidy: As an early childhood specialist, I will see technology that is more child-friendly and focuses on keeping them engaged in the virtual classroom setting. Software that allows the teacher and student to be more interactive will become a priority, and quality, developmentally appropriate online assessment tools that monitor progress will also become more prevalent.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Dr. Kimberly Cassidy: I foresee a growth in the market for graduates in this field. We are seeing a trend of our more mature teachers deciding to leave the profession due to the added demands of virtual classroom teaching. Considering that, we may have gaps in the grade bands and our available pool of candidates. For example, locally, we have a large population of early childhood educators with licensure in PreK-3, so we are looking for add-on certificates, licensures, and specialties to differentiate these graduates for them to be more marketable. The gap here is in 4th and 5th-grade teachers, so we have a 4th and 5th-grade add-on licensure program for those students with a Prek-3 license to help fill those grade gaps. That is a national issue and one that most universities have been addressing for quite some time. A trendy option now offered at many universities is the dual licensure program that gives a student both an early childhood license and a first childhood special education license. The student with this second license degree is prepared for any classroom and can be moved around in a school to meet the current school year's needs. These graduates are in high demand.
What type of skills will young Literacy Consultants need?
Douglas Green: The ability to write well has always been an advantage for our graduates. And I think it will be more critical than ever, now that so much more will happen in the virtual realm--from website copy, FB pages, emails, tweets, and texts, to scripts for video promotions. Analyzing such communications for their potential efficacy and effects, something akin to literary analysis, will also be necessary. Employer surveys have consistently rated such a facility with language and composition among their top ten skills.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Literacy Consultants to find work opportunities?
Douglas Green: Whether creative writers or literature concentrators or a mix of both, English majors are well situated for jobs in a variety of fields that require writing. From relatively new roles, like that of the medical scribe, to traditional ones, like communication specialist, English majors have always found their way not just into teaching but into many areas of the business world. While their starting salaries can't rival those of novice engineers and financial analysts, their earnings are comparable in the long run. They are fast learners. And those who have combined their English major with other disciplines, ranging from psychology and sociology to the sciences, economics, and marketing, are particularly well prepared to enter and advance reasonably quickly. Their critical and writing skills are highly adaptable.
How do you envision technology impacting Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Douglas Green: As I implied in my first response, and as we hear almost daily in the news, working online is likely to be with us in significant ways well beyond the pandemic. So writing well--communicating in words, scripting videos, etc.--will matter more than ever. And being creative in these media will likely mean our English majors, many of whom also study graphic or web design, will be well situated to contribute and succeed in a wide variety of jobs and organizations.
Dr. Amy Spriggs Ph.D.
Associate ProfessorUniversity of Kentucky
Department of Early Childhood, Special Education and Counselor Education
How do you envision technology impacting Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Dr. Amy Spriggs Ph.D.: Many of the K-12 students our candidates work with use technology to access the curriculum and their environment. As technology changes, this will become more sophisticated and (hopefully) more individualized. As far as instruction goes, I believe that we will see technologies, like Zoom or Google Meet, used even more to teach our students when there is bad weather, illness, or other issues that cause students not to be in school.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Literacy Consultants?
Dr. Amy Spriggs Ph.D.: I think the coronavirus pandemic has allowed some of our candidates to demonstrate resiliency. The candidates who graduate during this time will benefit from learning how to provide remote instruction while they were still learning, so I imagine they will be adaptable to changes in the future.
Dr. Lenora Boehlert
Visiting Professor, Educational LeadershipManhattanville College
School of Education
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Literacy Consultant job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Lenora Boehlert: I can't speak to all areas, but I believe the pandemic is providing opportunities for new leaders in terms of leadership positions. As experienced administrators decide to retire, their exit creates immediate vacancies for our graduates. Over the past 6-7 months, districts recruited new administrators who possess leadership talent and knowledge, and technology experience.
Will there be an increase or decrease in demand for Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Dr. Lenora Boehlert: As I mentioned earlier, I am excited about the possibilities for our graduates. When the pandemic began, I wondered what the landscape would look like for new administrators. Within the first few months, our students were recruited for virtual interviews. They met with interview teams, superintendents, and boards of education through dropped calls and frozen screens, demonstrating the flexibility and sense of humor they would bring to the position. Official appointments occurred via Zoom with historical memories of a significant professional milestone.
Many districts hired our students for notable education directors, assistant principals, principals, directors of human resources, guidance, and other positions. As more administrators decide to retire, districts will face the challenging task of finding replacements for valued leaders. Our students will be ready to tackle the challenges. They may lack in leadership experience offset by their belief that they can support teachers and students in these unchartered pathways. Now is the time to consider leadership opportunities because, I believe, the options will be there for our graduates.
What type of skills will young Literacy Consultants need?
Dr. Patricia Bricker: Of course, education graduates need foundational knowledge and skills in planning, instruction, and assessment, and they must know the content they will teach. Graduates also need to be unrelenting advocates for their students, committed to culturally responsive and sustaining pedagogy, and put into action initiatives focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. This past year has also highlighted the great need for our graduates to be adaptive, innovative problem solvers to succeed in our ever-changing world.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Literacy Consultants to find work opportunities?
Dr. Patricia Bricker: There is a need for teachers across the United States. The US Department of Education has an online database of Teacher Shortage Areas that can help recent graduates identify potential areas to target as they look for jobs. Subject of exceptionally high need include special education, mathematics, science, and English as a Second Language.
(FYI, there is a lot of variability in data about the teacher shortage and which states are in the highest need. See this report for more info. https://bellwethereducation.org/sites/default/files/Nuance%20In%20The%20Noise_Bellwether.pdf
How do you envision technology impacting Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Dr. Patricia Bricker: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the use of technology in many school systems, leading to a rapid online learning increase. The epidemic has also shown us the great need for equitable access to technology in our schools and communities and that we have a long way to reach this goal. In the next five years, I envision considerable effort focused on universal broadband internet access to allow increased and equitable access to online learning. I also anticipate increased and enhanced use of many technologies such as digital learning content, online learning management systems, cloud computing, mobile apps, game-based learning, augmented and virtual reality, coding and robotics, 3D printing, and a range of technology tools.
What type of skills will young Literacy Consultants need?
Deborah Schadler Ph.D.: Based on the ever-changing landscape, young graduates' skill sets will take on a new definition. There will continue to be the most significant emphasis on flexibility and problem-solving skills. The graduates will need to demonstrate in interviews, fieldwork, and practicums a high degree of executive functioning skills.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Literacy Consultants to find work opportunities?
Deborah Schadler Ph.D.: Yes, nationally, there is a critical teacher shortage. Teaching jobs are on the upswing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, teaching positions are expected to continue to grow at a 12 percent rate through 2022. Granted, it is specific to geographical area and discipline, but if teachers do their "homework," they can tailor their curriculum to fit the need. Based on our students' experiences with recruiting, Florida, Maryland, and West Virginia are among the most aggressive recruiters. Georgia, Texas, Arizona, North Carolina, Oregon, Washington, and Colorado also appear in the literature as experiencing teacher shortages across the board.
How do you envision technology impacting Literacy Consultants in the next 5 years?
Deborah Schadler Ph.D.: As a whole, education has done exceptionally well in implementing technology into the necessary compensations during the Pandemic. Cyber schools have made their mark in the field and are respected as an alternate delivery system. Therefore, technology will continue to be prominent in all aspects of education. The quality of Information availability and accuracy, accountability, and parts of the actual teaching process will continue to advance due to technology. However, the over-arching importance is to keep pace with ethical, humane, and best practices stemming from the research so that technology continues to be a tool used respectfully and continue to play a positive role in the learning process.
What experience really stands out on Literacy Consultant resumes?
Judi Wilson: It's always good to demonstrate leadership. Employers also appreciate volunteer experience related to the job or "extra" hours completed in internships/practicums. Also, taking advantage of professional development opportunities is very helpful.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Literacy Consultants?
Judi Wilson: They will always remember this time in history. I believe they will be more resilient and flexible than in past generations.