The Literacy Lab is now accepting applications for its 2026 Fellowship cohort in Washington, DC. This part-time opportunity offers hands-on experience in early childhood education while supporting critical literacy development for young learners. Designed for individuals passionate about helping children build foundational literacy skills, the Fellowship provides structured training, mentorship, and professional development in a classroom environment.

About The Literacy Lab

The Literacy Lab is a national nonprofit organization committed to ensuring that all children have access to evidence-based literacy instruction. Since 2009, the organization has provided high-impact literacy services to more than 40,000 children. Operating in Washington, DC; Baltimore, MD; Boston, MA; Atlanta, GA; Cincinnati, OH; and Milwaukee, WI, The Literacy Lab focuses on closing early literacy gaps and preparing young learners for long-term academic success.

Role Overview

Literacy Lab Fellows are embedded in preschool classrooms (ages 3–5), where they work 5 days a week for 5 hours per day. Fellows collaborate closely with classroom teachers to implement structured literacy routines, conduct assessments, and deliver targeted early-literacy interventions. This role is ideal for individuals seeking experience in education, community service, or the nonprofit sector.

Compensation:
• $18.00 per hour
• $120 monthly transportation and communication stipend
• $2,500 higher education award (contingent on program completion)

Key Responsibilities

Fellows support children’s literacy development through a variety of evidence-based practices, including:

• Facilitating literacy-rich daily classroom routines
• Leading one-on-one or small-group literacy interventions
• Conducting repeated read-aloud sessions, journaling, and literacy-focused transitions
• Accurately recording student data in an online database
• Completing benchmark and progress-monitoring assessments
• Identifying students in need of targeted intervention
• Participating in coaching sessions, training, and professional learning groups
• Collaborating with classroom teachers and Literacy Lab staff to support literacy goals

Professional Development and Support

Fellows receive extensive training, ongoing coaching, and mentorship from professional educators. The Literacy Lab equips Fellows with transferable skills that prepare them for careers in education, child development, or related fields. Support includes:

• Training on literacy interventions and assessments
• Regular coaching sessions
• Professional development opportunities
• Guidance on career exploration and college pathways

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:

• At least 18 years old by the start date
• High school diploma or equivalent
• U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
• Ability to pass FBI, state, and school district background checks
• Proficient in speaking, reading, and writing American English
• Interest in helping children develop early literacy and language skills
• Strong planning, time management, and communication skills
• Ability to work calmly and positively in varied classroom environments
• Commitment to the full service term from January 2026 to June 2026

Work Schedule

• Part-time position: 5 hours per day
• Monday through Friday, typically between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM
• Local travel as needed

Commitment to Inclusion

The Literacy Lab is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request for applicants and Fellows throughout the recruitment process and service year.

Why Apply?

This Fellowship offers a meaningful opportunity to support early childhood education while gaining practical experience in literacy instruction and classroom engagement. Fellows play a crucial role in shaping children’s academic readiness for kindergarten and beyond.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply here by submitting their resume and completing the required application fields. Early application is encouraged due to the program’s competitive nature.

click here for more opportunities.