Early Literacy Coach

Position Details

K-3 Early Literacy Coach

Job Summary :

The K-3 Early Literacy Coach will support the growth of literacy practices for K-3 staff using the Essential Practices in Literacy (literacyessentials.

org). The Literacy Coach will work with teachers to refine their knowledge and skills around the Literacy Essentials. This work could include, but is not limited to : in-class coaching, observing, modeling of instructional strategies, guiding teachers in looking at student work, developing coaching cycles with teachers based on student needs, supporting data analysis, supporting the integration of technology, co-planning with teachers, etc.

The Literacy Coach will work to develop and maintain trusting relationships with principals and teachers to improve instruction and increase student achievement.

Essential Duties (May include, but not limited to) :

• Develops and model’s high-quality literacy lessons for K-3 teachers.
• Coaches teachers around literacy in K-3 classrooms, while building and maintaining confidential relationships.
• Serves as the contact for participating schools, supports the development and delivery of professional development for early literacy practices and research-based literacy strategies.
• Supports school improvement initiatives focused on improving instructional practices as outlined by student outcomes in Grades K-3.
• Participates in required trainings (MDE, GISD) for Michigan ISD K-3 Literacy Coaches.
• Remains knowledgeable about current research and pedagogy relevant to the coaching role.
• Provide training and support on K-3 Essential Literacy Practices with a focus on implementation.
• Assists local districts in identifying strengths and needs in support of an early literacy continuum.
• Actively collaborates within coaching team to improve own coaching practices by implementing improvements.
• Communicates regularly with Principals, in participating schools, to identify areas of need, plan for implementation and monitor progress of coached staff.
• Communicates with GISD staff, participating schools, teachers and Principals regarding schedules, schedule changes and needs.
• Prompt in returning phone calls, messages, emails and other communications. This includes promptness in following up on GISD requests, assignments and data.
• Takes initiative to reach out to teachers with coaching needs.
• Consistently models Win-Win leadership.

Other Duties :

Represents Genesee Intermediate School District at participating school districts.

Qualifications : Education :

Education :

Master’s degree or equivalent required. Reading Specialist Certification preferred.

Experience :

A minimum of five years’ successful teaching experience in Grades K-3. Preferred experience teaching at-risk students in the area of reading.

Familiarity and success with utilizing formative, screening, and diagnostic assessments with students to determine appropriate reading instruction.

Equivalent amount of training focused on research-based practices if Reading Specialist Certification is not met.

Skills / Other :

Evidence of strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving skills and the ability to work as an effective team member. Knowledge of current K-3 state literacy standards.

Instructional skills and knowledge in early literacy components such as phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.

The administration and the use of data from the Kindergarten screeners. Ability to use observational data and formative assessment processes to guide professional learning and coaching.

Ability to utilize data from diagnostic tools to determine additional extra supports needed in order to read at grade level by the end of third grade.

Experienced in utilizing technology as an instructional and organizational tool. Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Ability to utilize district technology, and work to maintain proficiency, as required skill sets change with technology and / or the needs of the district.

Ability to fulfill responsibilities in accordance with program goals and objectives. Maintains a positive working relationship with children and staff.

Punctuality and good attendance are requirements for the position. Demonstrate professional discretion with confidential information.

Excellent customer service skills and the ability to maintain a calm, poised, and professional image at all times. Demonstrate honesty, integrity, and professionalism and represents the intermediate district in a professional manner at all times.

Ability to exercise good judgment and make decisions in accordance with the board policies and established administrative guidelines.