What are the responsibilities and job description for the Literacy Coach- School Smart KC (Wheatley, Whittier, Faxon) position at Various Locations - Other?
Kansas City Public Schools
K-3 Literacy Coach
Salary Range: T01 –T06
Department: School Leaders
Reports To: Building Principal
Location: Various Locations
Shift Type: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Exempt
Position Summary:
The K-3 Literacy Coach is a critical role dedicated to improving student reading achievement and ensuring all students reach on-grade-level proficiency by third grade. This position provides collegial, job-embedded support by aligning data-informed strategies with student-centered literacy instruction. Through collaboration with teachers and school leaders, the Literacy Coach engages in co-teaching, co-planning, modeling, reflective conversations, learning walks, and data deep-dives to enhance instructional capacity and student success.
*This is a grant funded position. The position will end when funding ends.
What You'll Be Doing: (Responsibilities)
Instructional Support for Teachers
- Support K-3 teachers in developing and implementing effective instructional strategies aligned with the Science of Reading.
- Regularly engage in classrooms to observe, provide feedback, and refine literacy instruction.
- Collaborate with educators to design and implement literacy programs tailored to students' needs.
Professional Development & Coaching
- Provide ongoing mentorship and professional development in literacy instruction methodologies.
- Facilitate training aligned with best practices in the Science of Reading and evidence-based literacy strategies.
- Lead data-driven discussions to inform instructional decision-making.
Data Analysis & Progress Monitoring
- Conduct literacy assessments and data-tracking to monitor student progress.
- Work with teachers and principals to utilize student achievement data effectively.
- Refine instructional practices based on assessment outcomes and classroom observations.
Literacy Fellowship & Community Engagement
- Participate in a two-year literacy fellowship, gaining expertise in change management, the Science of Reading, and instructional coaching.
- Serve as a liaison with the tutoring organization contracted by the school.
- Engage families in literacy development initiatives to support student learning beyond the classroom.
To Be Successful at This Job, You'll Need To: (Minimum Qualifications)
Bring Expertise and Vision:
- Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years of documented success in teaching reading, including a minimum of 3 years of K-3 literacy instruction.
- Valid Missouri teaching certificate or eligibility for certification.
- Training in LETRS® or other Science of Reading-related programs.
- Proficiency in analyzing and applying student achievement data for instructional purposes.
In Order to #LevelUp in This Role, You'll Need: (Preferred Qualifications)
Innovative Thinking:
- Ability to design and implement compelling, research-based literacy strategies.
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and improving student literacy outcomes.
Leadership with Impact:
- Strong communication skills and the ability to motivate others to achieve literacy goals.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively with educators, administrators, and external partners.
- Experience facilitating adult learning and delivering literacy-focused professional development.
A Growth Mindset:
- Commitment to lifelong learning and continuous professional development.
- Willingness to embrace and lead change initiatives in literacy instruction.
Benefits:
- Health and Dental Insurance are provided.
- KCPS Defined Benefit Pension plan – mandatory 9.0% contribution matched by KCPS; Voluntary retirement savings plans are also available.
Why Join Kansas City Public Schools?
Be a Changemaker. Collaborate with Passionate Colleagues. #LevelUp the Future.