Duties
Reports To: Director of Early Learning and Extended Care and/or Building Principal
Responsibilities:
Curriculum and Instructional Support
- Ensure that preschool curriculum aligns with Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards (IELDS) and program requirements.
- Support the effective implementation of the district's selected early childhood curriculum, assessments, and instructional materials.
- Assist teachers in developing developmentally appropriate lesson plans aligned with curriculum expectations.
- Review lesson plans and provide timely feedback and recommendations to strengthen instruction.
- Support classroom staff in implementing instructional practices that promote active engagement, language development, and early learning outcomes.
- Assist teachers in aligning classroom practices with program standards required under the Early Childhood Block Grant.
Professional Development and Staff Support
- Collaborate with preschool teachers and paraprofessionals to develop individual professional growth plans.
- Identify and coordinate professional development opportunities aligned with teacher goals and program priorities.
- Provide modeling, coaching, and professional learning opportunities that promote instructional excellence in early childhood settings.
- Support teachers in implementing best practices related to developmentally appropriate instruction, classroom management, and student engagement.
Observation and Coaching
- Conduct regular non-evaluative coaching observations in preschool classrooms.
- Maintain accurate records of classroom observations and coaching sessions.
- Engage teaching staff in reflective coaching conversations to analyze instructional practices and identify areas for growth.
- Support teachers in creating data-driven action plans to improve instruction.
- Encourage peer observation and collaboration between preschool classrooms.
Instructional Quality and Program Improvement
- Participate in professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and training, to remain current with emerging research and best practices in early childhood education.
- Identify resources, materials, and strategies that support instructional quality and student development.
- Participate in developing and implementing systems and procedures that support continuous program improvement.
- Support the implementation of program practices that strengthen high-quality classroom environments and instructional fidelity.
Additional Responsibilities
- Maintain professional relationships with staff while promoting a positive, collaborative instructional culture.
- Support district initiatives to improve early childhood programs.
- Assist with other duties related to early childhood instructional support as assigned by the Director of Early Learning and Extended Care or Building Principal.
Evaluation: The Preschool Instructional Coach will be evaluated annually in accordance with district policies and procedures. The evaluation will be conducted by the Director of Early Learning and Extended Care and/or Building Principal, and will include feedback related to coaching effectiveness, professional collaboration, and contributions to instructional quality across preschool classrooms.
Contract Period
Work schedule and contract terms will follow district guidelines
Qualifications
Qualifications and Minimum Requirements:
- Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
- Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with Early Childhood Endorsement
- Previous experience as an Early Childhood classroom teacher
- Demonstrated understanding of developmentally appropriate practices and Illinois Early Learning Standards
- Experience supporting or leading professional learning for educators
- Ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with teachers and support staff
- Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality
- Ability to operate standard office and audiovisual equipment
- Keyboarding and basic technology skills
- Emotionally and physically able to perform the duties required of the position
- Pleasant personality, professional demeanor, and ability to work effectively with young children and adults