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Literacy Coach Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Instructional Coach serves as a mentor and guide to support teachers at Horizon Science Academy ... Early Literacy, and/or Mathematics endorsements are preferred. - Master's degree in school ...

Coach, mentor, and develop staff; oversee onboarding and training * Promote employee accountability ... Computer literacy for reporting and analysis Preferred: * College degree * Supervisory experience ...

Coach, mentor, and develop staff; oversee onboarding and training * Promote employee accountability ... Computer literacy for reporting and analysis Preferred: * College degree * Supervisory experience ...

Coach, mentor, and develop staff; oversee onboarding and training * Promote employee accountability ... Computer literacy for reporting and analysis Preferred: * College degree * Supervisory experience ...

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Literacy Coach information

See Iowa salary details

$22.1K

$57.8K

$90.2K

How much do literacy coach jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for literacy coach in Iowa is $57,800.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $62,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a literacy coach?

Literacy coaches are educational professionals who support teachers in improving reading and writing instruction for students. They work collaboratively with teachers by modeling lessons, providing feedback, analyzing student data, and offering professional development. Their goal is to enhance teaching practices and boost student literacy achievement across grade levels. Literacy coaches can work in elementary, middle, or high schools, and often help implement school-wide literacy initiatives.

What does a literacy coach do?

As a literacy coach, you assist teachers in helping students develop their reading skills. Your responsibilities often include providing specialized support to teachers by delivering instructional strategies and offering classroom support. Although the end recipient of your knowledge is the student, your primary client is always the teacher, who you work with as a partner. You must work with the teacher’s pedagogy and curriculum as you help their students learn to read. Due to the increasing use of data, you may also engage in data collection and analysis. You also perform duties as a wider member of the school’s academic team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a literacy coach, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Literacy Coach, you need a strong background in literacy instruction, curriculum development, and often a degree in education with relevant teaching certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, instructional technology, and data analysis systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills help Literacy Coaches effectively support and guide teachers. These competencies are crucial for driving instructional improvement, fostering student literacy growth, and building teacher capacity.

How does a literacy coach typically collaborate with classroom teachers to improve student outcomes?

Literacy Coaches work closely with classroom teachers by providing ongoing support, modeling instructional strategies, and facilitating professional development aimed at enhancing literacy instruction. They often observe lessons, co-teach, and offer constructive feedback tailored to specific classroom needs. This collaborative approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement, helps teachers implement research-based practices, and ultimately leads to better student reading and writing outcomes. Effective communication and building trusting relationships are key components of this partnership.

What is the difference between Literacy Coach vs Reading Specialist?

AspectLiteracy CoachReading Specialist
CredentialsTeaching certification, literacy trainingTeaching certification, literacy or reading endorsement
Work EnvironmentSchool districts, classrooms, professional developmentClassrooms, resource centers, specialized reading programs
Employer & IndustryPublic/private schools, educational organizationsSchools, districts, educational agencies
Primary FocusSupporting teachers, implementing literacy strategiesDirect student reading intervention, assessment

While both Literacy Coaches and Reading Specialists work to improve literacy, Literacy Coaches primarily support teachers and facilitate professional development, whereas Reading Specialists focus on direct student reading interventions and assessments. The roles often overlap but differ in their primary focus and work environment.

What degree do you need to be a literacy coach?

A literacy coach typically needs a bachelor's degree in education, literacy, or a related field, with many positions preferring or requiring a master's degree in education or reading specialization. Certification or licensure as a teacher is often required, along with experience in teaching literacy or reading instruction.

What are popular job titles related to Literacy Coach jobs in Iowa?

For Literacy Coach jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What are popular job titles related to Literacy Coach jobs in IA?

For Literacy Coach jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Literacy Coach job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,800 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Work Study - ECE Literacy Coach

Des Moines Area Community College

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$14/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Job Title
Work Study - ECE Literacy Coach
Campus
Ankeny Campus, IA
Job Number
27-W45
Employment Date
As soon as possible.
Job Category
Student Positions
Application & Position Information Call
Jenn Whitted at jlwhitted@dmacc.edu or (515) 964-6588.
Posting Detail Information
Salary Information
$14.00 per hour.
Job Summary
The work study program provides funds for part-time employment to help students finance the costs of postsecondary education. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student's course of study. The program is designed to provide students with an opportunity for employment arranged around class schedules, while providing essential services to the College and the community.
Essential Functions
Work directly with young children and their families to support early literacy development through planning, implementing, and evaluating literacy-focused learning experiences.
Provide individual and small-group literacy support, developing lesson plans aligned with early learning standards, using assessment data to guide instruction, and managing children in both structured and informal learning environments.
Must be willing to participate in literacy coaching, training, and ongoing professional development to support high-quality literacy outcomes.
Required Qualifications
Must possess an interest in supporting early literacy development for young children and families.
Ability to manage individual children and small groups in a positive learning environment.
Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.
Ability to plan and implement developmentally appropriate literacy activities.
Willingness to receive coaching, feedback, and literacy-related professional development.
Must successfully complete all required childcare provider background checks and fingerprinting requirements.
Desired Qualifications
Enrolled in Early Childhood Education or a related field.
Work Schedule
Up 20 hours per week. Flexible hours during CDC operational hours: Monday-Friday 7:00am - 5:00pm.
Posting Date
08/31/2026
Deadline for Submitting Applications
06/30/2027
Open Until Filled
No
Application Instructions
This Vacancy Requires:
  • A complete DMACC Employment Application in English (personal information,educational history, employment history, and supplemental questions).Incomplete applications and or "See Resume" will not be accepted.
  • Attachment of transcripts to your electronic application (if required).Transcripts must include the applicant's name and degrees conferred.Scans, photos, or unofficial copies are acceptable. Official transcriptswill be collected upon hire (if applicable).

Must be legally eligible to work in the United States without employersponsorship. Individuals with disabilities desiring a reasonableaccommodation in the application process should notify Human Resources at(515) 964-6479 or by emailjobs@dmacc.edu.
*The application form will be used to screen applicants for requiredqualifications and for salary placement of finalist(s). Please includeall relevant work experience.
Quicklink
https://jobs.dmacc.edu/postings/15377