Instructional Coach

About This Role

This Instructional Coach supports teachers and education staff by providing individualized professional development based on the Practice-Based Coaching model. The role focuses on building staff capacity for effective teaching practices, supporting children's learning, and aligning instructional approaches with the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.

Responsibilities

• Support the development of positive, collaborative coaching relationships with education staff under the guidance of the head of the county education team or designated supervisor
• Conduct classroom and home-based observations, following established tools and procedures, to identify instructional strengths and areas of growth
• Assist education staff in identifying and achieving professional growth goals that promote children’s school readiness outcomes
• Support coaching sessions by modelling effective teaching strategies and reinforcing research-based best practices, as appropriate
• Facilitate reflective discussions and problem-solving activities to support continuous quality improvement efforts
• Document coaching sessions, track staff progress toward goals, and compile reports for review by supervisor or specialist
• Coordinate with supervisors and coaching staff to support alignment of coaching activities with program-wide professional development goals
• Assist with the coordination and delivery of group training or workshops related to instructional practices, curriculum implementation, and family engagement
• Collaborate with the Education team to support the development of the CDA process with the CCR&R
• Maintain confidentiality and contribute to a supportive learning environment that respects diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and learning styles
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational priorities

Requirements

• Ability to implement the Practice-Based Coaching cycle, including shared goal setting, focused observation, and reflection/feedback
• Knowledgeable in adult learning theories and relationship-based coaching
• Working knowledge of the Pyramid Model with the ability to apply established practices to coaching, observation, and feedback activities under general guidance
• Applies effective communication skills to convey information, document coaching activities, and collaborate with team members and stakeholders
• Effective coaching practices and strategies, with ability to strengthen skillset (Motivational Interviewing (MI) skills, and Reflective Supervision endorsement)
• Knowledge of the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework and research-based early childhood practices
• Ability to analyze classroom practices, develop action steps, and support implementation of improvement plans