JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Structured Literacy Coach 2026/2027 School Year
Job Objective:
Support schools requesting coaching to implement Structured Literacy aligned with the statewide
literacy initiative and NM Public Education Department (NMPED) efforts. Provide in-person and virtual
(synchronous and asynchronous) coaching, develop and deliver professional learning on evidence
based Structured Literacy practices, and, where trained, facilitate LETRS (3rd Edition) professional
learning for schools and REC member districts.
Reports to: Structured Literacy Coordinator
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR POSITION
- Valid NM Teaching License (Level 2 or 3)
- Bachelor's degree in education and advanced coursework or professional development in the
science of reading, multisensory language instruction
- LETRS-certification or accredited structured literacy certification
- Reading Endorsement or Certification or eligibility for a reading endorsement or certification
- Expertise in Structured Literacy
- Preferred Requirements
- Masters' degree in a related education field, to include:
- Educational Administration, Elementary Education, Curriculum and Instruction, Reading, etc.
- Certified Academic Language Therapist
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Instructional Support and Alignment
- Familiarize teachers and administrators with research on foundational reading skills,
components of language, and the science of reading.
- Support alignment of curriculum, instruction, assessment, and district/charter Literacy Plans
with ELA CCSS and WIDA ELD standards.
- Support instruction for multilingual learners and students with disabilities.
- Pedagogical Guidance
- Coach teachers and administrators in research-based literacy practices and effective
pedagogy.
- Provide a repertoire of instructional strategies teachers can apply in classrooms.
- Use NMPED pedagogical and training supports (e.g., LETRS) in coaching.
- Data and Schoolwide Support
- Support schools in collecting and analyzing data to inform instruction and monitor student
growth.
- Collaborate with administrators to establish schoolwide literacy goals for reading and writing.
- Coaching and Professional Learning
- Apply adult learning principles to build collaborative partnerships with teachers and support
implementation of new practices.
- Facilitate professional learning sessions on instructional practices, data use, classroom
environment, and literacy research.
- Conduct observation and feedback cycles at least monthly to support teacher goal setting and
implementation.
- Professional Growth and Collaboration
- Participate in professional development, including NMPED Structured Literacy coach training,
consultant-led trainings, and Communities of Practice.
- Maintain regular communication with school leaders, reading specialists, colleagues, and
experts to stay current with research.
- Reflect with peers and NMPED on practice to support student achievement.
OTHER DUTIES
- Perform additional job-related duties as assigned by the REC or NMPED.
- Essential functions listed are not exhaustive; duties may be revised based on district needs.
- *These essential functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties
performed. (Employees may have other job-related duties as needs arise).
- KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
- Excellent verbal and written communication, grammar, editing, and research skills.
- Strong organizational skills; able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Experience with grant or formal report writing is desirable.
- Ability to gather information efficiently from diverse stakeholders.
- Able to work independently and collaboratively.
- Proficiency with relevant technologies and a commitment to ongoing learning.
CORE COMPETENCIES
- Communication: Clear, timely verbal and written communication; error-free professional
writing.
- Client Focus: Prioritizes and responds to client needs; promotes RECs in the community.
- People Skills: Treats others respectfully; fosters open, transparent communication.
- Technical Expertise: Maintains up-to-date knowledge in area of expertise and applies it
effectively.
- Planning & Organizing: Sets goals, breaks tasks into steps, manages time and resources
efficiently.
- Problem-Solving: Uses logical methods to analyze problems and find effective solutions.
- Results-Oriented: Pursues and achieves goals; persistent and proactive.
WORK CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Location: Assigned school site (5 days/week) with travel to schools, meetings, trainings, and
conferences; overnight travel may be required.
- Activities: Light physical activity consistent with remote/office and school environments.
- Salary: Commensurate with licensure level.
- *Reasonable accommodation will be made per existing ADA requirements for otherwise
qualified individuals with a disability.
- EQUAL OPPORTUNITY SWREC does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex,
national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected
characteristics.
- APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Submit a cover letter, resume, and copy of your license via the
application link. Questions: contact Toby Soderberg at tsoderberg@swrecnm.org.
- ACKNOWLEDGEMENT By signing below, employee affirms they have read, understand, and
can perform the duties of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation, and agree
to follow district safety rules and accident prevention procedures.