What is an LST? Understanding the Role of Literature Support Teachers
At Hometown Elementary, we’re proud to have a dedicated team of LSTs—Literacy Support Teachers—who play a vital role in helping students grow as readers and writers. LSTs work closely with classroom teachers to support literacy instruction, identify student needs, and provide targeted interventions to help all learners succeed. Whether a student is just beginning to master foundational reading skills or needs extra support with comprehension and fluency, LSTs are there to offer guidance, encouragement, and expertise.
LSTs often work with small groups or individual students, focusing on specific reading strategies, phonics skills, or writing development based on classroom assessments and teacher observations. They use research-based practices and engaging materials to meet students right where they are, helping to build confidence and close gaps. In addition to working directly with students, Literacy Support Teachers also collaborate with classroom teachers to plan effective literacy lessons, review student data, and ensure instruction is tailored to meet each learner's needs.
Beyond academics, LSTs build strong relationships with students, helping them develop a love for reading and a belief in their own abilities. They celebrate progress, encourage perseverance, and create safe spaces where students feel supported in their learning journey. LSTs may also support literacy events, family reading nights, and book giveaways that help extend learning beyond the classroom.
Mrs. Onik, one of Hometown’s Literacy Support Teachers, shared: “The best part of my job is watching students light up when they realize they’re becoming stronger readers. Our goal is to make sure every child feels successful and confident—and to show them that reading can be fun!”
At Hometown, our LSTs, Mrs. Onik, Mrs. Gill and Mrs. Martinez, are essential members of our instructional team. We are so grateful for their commitment, passion, and the positive impact they make every day in our school community!
What is an MST? Understanding the Role of Math Support Teachers
At Hometown Elementary, MSTs—Math Support Teachers—play a key role in helping students build self assurance and skills in mathematics. MSTs work alongside classroom teachers to provide additional support for students who may need extra help understanding math concepts, solving problems, or developing number sense. Their goal is to ensure that all learners have the tools and strategies they need to succeed in math and feel confident in their abilities.
MSTs often work with small groups or individual students during intervention time or within the classroom, focusing on targeted skills identified through assessments and teacher input. These sessions might involve hands-on activities, math games, manipulatives, or visual models that make abstract concepts easier to understand. By providing instruction that is personalized and paced to meet student needs, MSTs help close gaps and reinforce classroom learning.
In addition to working directly with students, MSTs support teachers by helping analyze data, plan differentiated lessons, and co-teach when needed. They also promote a growth mindset in math—encouraging students to take risks, learn from mistakes, and approach challenges with a positive attitude.
MSTs are not just focused on numbers—they’re focused on helping students feel successful. They celebrate small victories and help students see that progress is possible with practice and perseverance.
Mrs. Malone, who also serves as an MST at Hometown, shared: “It’s amazing to watch a student go from saying ‘I can’t do this’ to ‘I did it!’ Math can be intimidating for some kids, but with the right support and encouragement, they can overcome that fear and really thrive.”
Our MSTs, Mrs. Finnegan and Mrs. Malone, are a vital part of our school community, helping every student discover their inner mathematician and develop a lifelong love of learning. We are so grateful for their dedication and support!