Job Title

Instructional Coach 

Salary Scale

TCH

Location

PSC Code 

970012

Reports To

Principal 

Shift Type

Full Time/Exempt

General Statement of Job 

Under limited supervision, supports the Assistant Principal for Instruction and school leaders in bringing research and evidence-based practices into secondary level classrooms through coaching and other relevant professional learning opportunities. 

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

• Supports implementation of the District’s coaching model.

• Provides individual and group professional learning opportunities to the API and school leaders to expand and refine their understanding of research- and evidence-based effective instruction, particularly in the areas of literacy and numeracy.

• Communicates and demonstrates research- and evidence-based instructional practices that result in building capacity at the school level.

• Assists the API and administrators in making sound instructional decisions based on assessment data and culturally responsive practices.

• Provides support to the API and administrators in the disaggregation, analysis, and use of school, grade level, teacher, and student data as a tool to improve instructional practices.

• Supports the API in implementing district-required interventions, particularly in the areas of literacy and numeracy.

• Supports the API in the identification and acquisition of instructional materials to support effective classroom instruction, particularly in the areas of literacy and numeracy.

• Assists the API in the review and analysis of lesson plans and classroom instruction to ensure standards-based instruction and assessment, particularly in the areas of literacy and numeracy.

• Assists the API in his/her efforts to support implementation of common formative assessments.

• Creates positive relationships with the API and administrators.

• Supports the API through modeling, over-the-shoulder coaching, co-creation of professional learning experiences for teachers, co-planning for PLCs, co-leading professional learning opportunities and PLCs, co-review of lesson plans and assessments, and co-observation experiences with the goal of gradual release to build the school-based instructional coach’s capacity.
• Engages the API in inquiry and reflective practice to determine areas of need and to co-design solutions to address areas of concern.

• Supports the API in innovation and the integration of technology into classroom instruction.

• Responds to inquiries and concerns regarding professional learning needs and coaching support.

• Collaborates with other district instructional coaches to ensure consistency in coaching support and messaging.

• Exemplary internal and external customer service skills with ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. 

• Experience utilizing technology as a digital resource for active and authentic learning and to support work efficiency.

• Knowledge of current trends in education as it pertains to research- and evidence-based instructional strategies and interventions.

• Ability to engage in research and to facilitate the use of research in decision-making.

• Ability to engage in discussions about classroom organization and other factors that contribute to positive learning environments and experiences. 

• Demonstrated ability to facilitate collaborative efforts of individuals having differing interest to common solutions. 

ADDITIONAL DUTIES

• Uses computers to gather, organize and present information and to prepare records, reports and correspondence.

• Operates and maintains computers, digital displays, printers, various peripheral equipment, modem, scanner, audio-visual equipment, calculator, telephone, copier, fax machine, vehicle, in the LEIR area, etc.

• Possesses a driver’s license and safely operates a vehicle.

• Performs related duties as required.

Essential Functions 

Physical Requirements:

Must be physically able to operate a variety of machines and equipment, including a computer, telephone, audio-visual equipment, etc. Must be able to exert up to five pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves sitting much of the time, but also involves walking and standing for periods of time. Must be able to lift and/or carry weights of up to 20 pounds.

Data Conception:

Requires the ability to compare and/or judge the readily observable functional, structural or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people or things.

Interpersonal Communications:

Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes giving assignments and/or directions to subordinates and adult students and receiving assignments and/or direction from supervisor.

Language Ability:

Requires the ability to read a variety of policy and procedures manuals, technical manuals and reports, professional journals, etc. Requires the ability to prepare reports, proposals, informative publications, correspondence, etc. with proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar, using all parts of speech. Requires the ability to speak with and before others with poise, voice control and confidence.

Intelligence:

Requires the ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts and draw valid conclusions, and to deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Requires the ability to apply influence systems in managing a staff, to learn and understand relatively complex principles and techniques, to make independent judgments in absence of supervision, and to acquire knowledge of topics related to primary occupation. Must have the ability to comprehend and interpret received information.

Verbal Aptitude:

Requires the ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow and give verbal and written instructions, and to teach employees. Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently with persons of varying educational backgrounds and in a variety of professional languages, including computer/electronic technology.

Numerical Aptitude:

Requires the ability to add and subtract totals, to multiply and divide, to utilize mathematical formulas, to determine percentages and decimals, and to determine time.

Form/Spatial Aptitude:

Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width and shape, and visually read various information.

Motor Coordination:

Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes using office machinery and to operate motor vehicles.

Manual Dexterity:

Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, keyboards, office equipment, control knobs, buttons, switches, catches, small tools, etc. Must have moderate levels of eye/hand/foot coordination.

Interpersonal Temperament:

Requires the ability to deal with people beyond giving and receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under stress when confronted with emergency situations or tight deadlines.

Physical Communications:

Requires the ability to talk and/or hear: (talking: expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing: perceiving nature of sounds by ear).

Training and Education 

Must be an experienced, highly accomplished, and well respected leader and learner in secondary level education who possesses exceptional knowledge and training in literacy and/or numeracy, as these are the two content priority areas defined by the District’s Strategic Plan. Must possess interpersonal skills that foster the development of strong relationships with those s/he will support. Requires a Master's degree in education or administration supplemented by three to five years of successful experience as an instructional coach or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must possess teaching certifications as required.

Performance Evaluation Criteria 

Job Knowledge:

Has thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures and policies of Florence 1 Schools as they pertain to the performance of duties of Instructional Coach. Is knowledgeable in the laws, ordinances, standards and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Is able to help ensure departmental compliance with all laws and regulations and control the activities of the department through effective supervision and leadership. Has thorough knowledge of the organization of the department and of related departments and agencies. Has considerable knowledge of the functions and interrelationships of Florence 1 Schools and other governmental agencies. Has general knowledge of the theory, operation, uses and capabilities of mainframes, microcomputers and other related information management systems and technologies. Has skills in the use of computers. Has knowledge of modern trends and development related to educational management and curriculum including general and specific uses of various technologies in the educational environment. Is able to communicate program goals and opportunities in visual, oral and written form. Demonstrates group and educational leadership skills through strategic planning, goal setting and problem solving. Knows how to plan, organize and direct a technical and clerical staff, as needed. Knows how to apply coaching concepts and principles. Has the ability to offer training and assistance to co-workers and employees of other departments, as required. Has the ability to offer instruction and advice to others regarding departmental policies, methods and regulations. Has the ability to use independent judgment as needed in performing routine and non-routine tasks. Is able to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision. Is able to read and interpret complex technical and professional reports and related materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job. Knows how to compile and analyze data and to prepare reports, proposals, correspondence, etc., with completeness and accuracy. Has a comprehensive knowledge of the terminology and various professional languages used within the department. Knows how to maintain effective relationships with personnel of other departments, professionals and members of the public through contact and cooperation. Knows how to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations. Knows how to make public presentations. Has the mathematical ability to handle required calculations. Has good organizational, technical and human relations skills. Has the ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency. Has knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the trade. Has knowledge and skills in the areas of literacy and numeracy.

Quality of Work:

Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with all District departments and divisions, co-workers and the public.

Quantity of Work:

Performs described "Specific Duties and Responsibilities" and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce a quantity of work which consistently meets standards and expectations of the District.

Dependability:

Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work. Completes assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, District policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Remains accountable to assigned responsibilities in the technical, human and conceptual areas.

Attendance:

Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to District policies and procedures regarding absences and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and time-off requests.

Initiative and Enthusiasm:

Maintains an enthusiastic, self-reliant and self-starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountability. Strives to anticipate work to be done, and initiates proper and acceptable direction for the completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction.

Judgment:

Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies problems or situations as they occur, and specifies decision objectives. Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to problems or situations. Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches problems, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment. Monitors the activities/behavior of the student body to ensure student safety and well-being. 

Cooperation:

Accepts supervisory instruction and direction, and strives to meet the goals and objectives of the same. Questions such as instruction and direction when clarification of results or consequences are justified (i.e., poor communications, variance with District policy or procedures, etc.). Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation between all staff persons and departments within the District.

Relationships:

Shares knowledge with managers, supervisors and staff for mutual and district benefit. Contributes to maintaining high morale among all District employees. Develops and maintains cooperative and courteous relationships with department employees, staff and managers in other departments, representatives from organizations, and the public so as to maintain good will toward the District and to project a good district image. Tactfully and effectively handles requests, suggestions and complaints from other departments and persons in order to maintain good will within the District. Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image within the District. Interacts effectively with higher management, professionals and the public.

Coordination of Work:

Plans and organizes daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort. Estimates expected time of completion of elements of work and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Attends required meetings, planning sessions and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.

Safety:

Adheres to all safety and housekeeping standards established by the District and various regulatory agencies. Sees that standards are not violated. Maintains a clean and orderly workplace.

Planning:

Plans, directs and uses information effectively in order to enhance activities and production of the department. Knows and understands the expectations of the District regarding the activities of the department, and works to see that these expectations are met. Designs and formulates ways, means, and timing to achieve the goals and objectives of the department and the District. Within constraints of District policy, formulates appropriate strategy and tactics for achieving departmental and District objectives. Effectively and efficiently organizes, arranges and allocates manpower, financial and other designated resources to achieve the goals and objectives of the department and the District.

DISCLAIMER: This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice.

Terms of Employment 

190 day work agreement. Salary and work year to be established by the district.