Literacy Mentor

Position Type:
Part-time / Contract (Semester-based) About Decode Project

Decode Project, Inc. is a Louisville-based nonprofit dedicated to improving literacy outcomes and eliminating educational inequities. We provide structured, evidence-based literacy support to youth through one-to-one and small-group mentoring, while training future educators and leaders in the science of reading and community-centered practice.

Literacy Mentors provide high-quality literacy instruction and holistic mentorship to Decoders—learners who are not yet reading at grade-level proficiency. Beyond the classroom, Mentors serve as a vital link to obtaining the skill of literacy by building strong, affirming relationships with both Decoders and their families. This role is ideal for those passionate about literacy, equity, and community-centered youth development.

• Instructional Delivery: Deliver one-to-one or small-group literacy instruction using Decode Project’s structured curriculum.
• Multisensory Engagement: Implement evidence-based lessons that incorporate visual, auditory, and kinesthetic-tactile pathways to support phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, and comprehension.
• Family & Student Advocacy: Build trusting, supportive relationships with Decoders and their families to foster a positive academic identity and ensure a collaborative approach to the learner’s growth.
• Progress Tracking: Maintain accurate session notes and track progress for each Decoder, ensuring data is clear and shareable with families.
• Professionalism: Communicate effectively and empathetically with caregivers, school partners, and staff while upholding Decode Project’s mission and values.
• Growth: Participate in required training, coaching, and professional development sessions.

This position offers a flexible weekly schedule designed to accommodate academic or personal commitments.

• Weekly
  
  Hours:
  
  Typically ranges from 5 to 20 hours per week.
• Consistency, Commitment & Duration: While weekly totals may vary, a consistent schedule throughout a full academic semester is preferred to ensure consistency for our Decoders and their families.

• Commitment to working with children and youth from historically under-resourced communities.
• Reliability and the ability to maintain a consistent weekly schedule within your agreed-upon hours.
• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Ability to communicate warmly and professionally with diverse families and caregivers.
• Ability to pass all required background checks.

• Bachelor's degree in Sociology, Education, or experience in a related field.
• Interest or coursework in Education, Literacy, Speech-Language Pathology, Social Work, or Psychology.
• Experience in tutoring, mentoring, community organizing, or childcare.

• Pay Rate: $17.00 – $20.00 per hour
  , based on experience and role.
• Training
  :
  Paid initial training in multisensory structured literacy and community-centered engagement.
• Mentorship: Ongoing coaching from experienced literacy staff and opportunities for professional growth.

Decode Project, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.