We’re Launching the Literacy Liberators Fellowship — and We Need Your Help

By Rob Johnson

As the new Program Director for Open School’s Liberators tutoring program, I’m excited to announce the Literacy Liberators Fellowship — a paid training opportunity to become a tutor supporting young readers in Reynolds School District elementary schools.

At Open, we believe every child deserves to learn to read with confidence and joy — but too many Black, Brown, and underestimated students in our communities haven’t had the support they need to thrive. I’ve spent my career working at the intersection of education, equity, and youth development, and I know firsthand what’s possible when young people are surrounded by consistent, caring adults who are equipped with the tools to help them succeed.

That’s what this Fellowship is about — building a team of community-rooted tutors who can help kids grow, not just academically, but in their sense of worth and capability.

We’re investing in our community.

Through the Oregon Department of Education’s Community Literacy Grant, Open School is launching this Fellowship to train and employ local community members as high-dosage literacy tutors for 1st through 3rd grade students.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, college student, or community member who believes in the brilliance of our kids — you can help close the literacy gap and build something powerful here in Reynolds. If you bring the heart and commitment, we’ll support you with the skills and tools.

What is a Literacy Liberator? 

Literacy Liberators will work in person with small groups of students, helping them grow as readers through high-impact tutoring sessions. Tutors will be employed by Open School and placed at Reynolds School District elementary sites where we’ve been invited to support after-school programs.

No previous experience is required — just heart, commitment, and a willingness to learn.

Fellowship details

• • Dates: August 18 – September 19, 2025
  • Location: Open School East Campus (in-person)
  • Schedule: Mostly evenings, Monday – Thursday, plus some possible daytime site visits and coaching sessions
  • Pay: $25/hour
  • Childcare: Available for children ages 2+
  • Food: Small refreshments provided during training

This is a paid training opportunity. Fellows who complete the program will automatically be placed as paid tutors throughout the 2025–26 school year (1–5 PM, Monday through Friday).

Application information

The application portal is now open:

📌  Application Form

Priority deadline: June 27 (applications reviewed on a rolling basis)

We’ll begin reaching out to selected applicants for a brief phone screening, followed by an in-person interview and literacy assessment at our campus.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who should apply?

We’re looking for applicants who:

• Are 18 or older
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Are legally authorized to work in the U.S.
• Speak English proficiently
• Live in or are deeply connected to the Reynolds School District community
• Are passionate about helping young children become confident readers

What happens after the Fellowship?

All Fellows who complete the program will be hired by Open School as Literacy Liberators. You’ll be placed at a Reynolds elementary school where tutoring support is needed and work Monday through Thursday, from 1–5 PM. On Fridays, you will be working from Open School East campus working on professional development and administrative tasks.

Will I get support once I’m placed?

Yes. We know strong tutoring doesn’t happen in isolation. You’ll receive ongoing coaching and professional development from me and other team members throughout the school year. We’re committed to helping you grow and thrive in this work.

Join us

This is more than a job. It’s a chance to change the story for our kids — to help them reclaim their brilliance as readers, leaders, and learners.

📌 Read the job description and complete the application form. 

📧 Have questions? Reach out to me at r.johnson@opennw.org.

I hope you’ll consider applying. We need you.