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Position Summary

The Learning Center Reading Coach supports the academic and literacy development of youth by providing high-quality, research-based reading instruction, intervention, enrichment, and coaching within the Learning Center. The Reading Coach provides direct instruction to students individually, in small groups, and in whole-center settings while helping Learning Center staff strengthen effective literacy practices.

Working collaboratively with the Lead Coordinator, Literacy Coordinator, Learning Center staff, and other program personnel, the Reading Coach develops and implements literacy activities and interventions aligned with student needs and the Norwalk Public Schools curriculum. The position also supports student assessment, progress monitoring, literacy programming, resource development, and the effective day-to-day operation of the Learning Center.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Student Instruction and Literacy Support

• Provide remedial, foundational, and enrichment literacy instruction using appropriate instructional materials, technology, children's literature, and other educational resources.
• Deliver direct reading and literacy instruction through one-on-one tutoring, small-group instruction, and whole-center activities.
• Develop short-term literacy interventions based on identified student needs and individual student improvement plans.
• Use assessment results and student performance data to inform instructional planning and differentiate instruction.
• Conduct reading assessments and maintain appropriate documentation of student progress.
• Prepare written assessments and progress reports as required.
• Collaborate with the Literacy Coordinator and Lead Coordinator to plan and deliver effective literacy instruction.
• Promote student engagement, confidence, independence, and a positive attitude toward reading and learning.

Staff Coaching and Professional Support

• Support Learning Center staff in implementing effective literacy practices and instructional strategies.
• Model high-quality literacy lessons and instructional techniques.
• Share current research, instructional resources, and best practices related to literacy and language arts.
• Lead or facilitate study groups and other professional learning activities as assigned.
• Collaborate with staff to examine student work, identify learning needs, and determine appropriate instructional responses.
• Assist staff in developing, implementing, and reviewing individual student improvement plans as needed.
• Serve as a literacy resource to Learning Center staff.

Literacy Programming and Resources

• Remain current on research, theory, instructional strategies, and best practices in literacy and language arts development.
• Recommend high-quality, age-appropriate, and engaging children's literature.
• Assist in developing and recommending titles for summer reading lists and other literacy initiatives.
• Collaborate with the literacy team to plan, organize, and facilitate center-wide literacy events throughout the year.
• Design, organize, and maintain the Learning Center library to ensure materials are accessible and appropriate for student needs.
• Select and requisition books, instructional materials, educational tools, technology resources, and instructional aids in accordance with program procedures.
• Maintain accurate inventory records for books, materials, equipment, and instructional resources.
• Organize storage areas and monitor the appropriate use and care of instructional materials, equipment, and tools.

Learning Center Operations

• Help ensure that the Learning Center operates smoothly, effectively, and reliably.
• Promote and maintain a safe, welcoming, organized, and supportive learning environment.
• Follow established procedures related to the safety and security of students, personnel, technology, equipment, and program resources.
• Assist with maintaining accurate records of student attendance, activities, participation, assessments, and program services.
• Support the Lead Coordinator with Learning Center operations and program activities as needed.
• Attend and actively participate in meetings, professional development activities, and planning sessions as required by the Lead Coordinator, Literacy Coordinator, or Learning Center administration.
• Assist with special projects and initiatives as requested by the Literacy Coordinator or administration.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor or management.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

The successful candidate should demonstrate:

• Strong knowledge of literacy development, reading instruction, intervention strategies, and age-appropriate instructional practices.
• Ability to provide effective instruction to students with a range of academic abilities and learning needs.
• Experience working effectively with children and families from a wide variety of backgrounds.
• Ability to build positive, supportive relationships with students, families, colleagues, and community partners.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate ideas clearly and prepare accurate reports and documentation.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong organizational, planning, time-management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to assess student needs, monitor progress, and adjust instruction accordingly.
• Knowledge of computers, educational technology, and peripheral equipment.
• Proficiency with common productivity software, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation or graphics applications.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment.
• Commitment to creating an inclusive, respectful, safe, and engaging learning environment for all students.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Education or a closely related field.
• Current Connecticut teaching certification.
• Minimum of two years of professional experience as an educator.
• Experience working with children in an academic, literacy, after-school, or related learning environment.
• Demonstrated experience using standard computer applications and educational technology.

An equivalent combination of relevant education, training, certification, and professional experience may be considered where appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience providing reading intervention, literacy coaching, tutoring, or differentiated literacy instruction.
• Experience administering or interpreting student reading assessments.
• Knowledge of the Norwalk Public Schools curriculum and instructional expectations.
• Experience working in after-school, community-based, or youth development programs.
• Strong computer and educational technology proficiency.

Special Requirements

• Must be bondable.
• Possession of a valid Connecticut motor vehicle operator's license is preferred.
• Must comply with all applicable organizational policies, safety requirements, background screening requirements, and procedures associated with working with youth.

Working Relationships

The Reading Coach reports directly to the Lead Coordinator and works closely with the Literacy Coordinator, Learning Center staff, administrators, students, families, and other program partners to support student literacy achievement and the overall effectiveness of the Learning Center.

Physical and Work Environment

The position is primarily performed in an educational and Learning Center environment and requires regular interaction with children and staff. The employee may be required to move throughout the Learning Center, use computers and other instructional equipment, organize educational materials, and participate in Learning Center activities and events.

Equal Opportunity

The organization is committed to providing an inclusive workplace and educational environment. Employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and organizational equal employment opportunity policies.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by an employee assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or working conditions. Responsibilities may be modified or assigned based on program and organizational needs.

Employee reviews describe supportive coworkers, friendly teams, and opportunities to work with diverse populations. Some employees specifically noted strong teamwork and management support.