The Act 20 Early Literacy Coach is a 2- year grant funded position. The Early Literacy Coach is a non-evaluative instructional leader who supports 5K-3 educators, and administrators, and collaborates with other literacy coaches and the Director of Literacy in strengthening schoolwide early literacy systems and implementing science-based early reading instruction to improve student achievement and reduce literacy disparities. Using evidence-based coaching practices, the coach builds collaborative relationships and provides job-embedded support through modeling, co-planning, observation, reflective conversations, and actionable feedback to strengthen instructional practices aligned with the Wisconsin Act 20 Early Literacy Coaching Program. The coach also facilitates professional learning, conducts literacy audits, and collaborates with school and district teams.
This position is funded through the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) and requires participation in statewide professional learning and adherence to DPI coaching expectations.
Essential Functions
Provide instructional coaching using DPI's Act 20 Early Literacy Coaching Model
Lead continuous improvement cycles with general and specialized educators
Facilitate evidence-based small and large-group professional learning
Conduct a comprehensive 5K-3 literacy audit using DPI's provided template
Develop and implement an annual coaching plan
Support MLSS implementation for early literacy
Coach educators on screening, diagnostics, and personal reading plans
Meet regularly with building leadership teams (BLTs), literacy coaches and administrators to review data and set priorities
Builds and maintains confidential relationships with teachers. The conversations and interactions that the coach has with teachers must always remain confidential so that a high level of trust is created and maintained between the teacher and the coach. Exceptions to this include imminent physical or psychological danger to the students.
Maintain coaching logs, artifacts, and monthly reporting documentation
Participate in DPI-provided professional learning
Candidate Requirements
Valid Wisconsin Teaching License
Holds or eligible to hold a Wisconsin Reading Specialist License (5017/317)
Minimum 3 years successful K-3 teaching experience
Demonstrated knowledge of evidence -based early literacy instruction
Demonstrated thorough understanding and application of the Wisconsin Standards for English Language Arts (2020) and Wisconsin Essential Standards for English Language Arts, particularly within grades 5K-3
Knowledge and experience using a variety of assessment tools and analyzing assessment data to inform instruction
Strong classroom management, communication and collaboration skills
Preferred Qualifications
(DPI requires candidates to meet at least 4 of these)
Experience coaching or mentoring educators
Training in science-based early reading
Experience with Multi-Level Systems of Support (MLSS)
Experience facilitating adult learning
Knowledge of universal instruction and intervention practices
Experience with literacy audits or program evaluation
Experience with instructing students experiencing literacy disparities, including students from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, speakers of African American English/Black Language, multilingual learners, and students with disabilities.
Employment Details
Reports to: Building Administrator
Works with: DPI Office of Literacy, building principals, K-3 educators
May not be assigned prohibited duties (direct instruction, assessment administration, promoting implementation of 3-cueing, recess/lunch duty, reading specialist role)
Annie Jackson Elementary is a neighborhood school located on Green Bay's West Side just down the road from Lambeau Field. Approximately 400 students grades 3K-5 attend Jackson School. Some of our specialty programs include:Bilingual Education, Early Childhood, Collaborative 4K and Collaborative 5K. Staff members interested in Jackson must have a strong desire to engage in ongoing professional development, coaching cycles and meet collaboratively in a variety of professional learning communities to support continuous school improvement. We strive to create a rigorous, engaging, and meaningful learning environment for our students. We work in close partnership with our families to ensure student success. If you're enthusiastic, passionate, and collaborative, we would love to hear from you! Find out more by calling Gina Zacharias, Principal, at (920) 492-2664 to learn more about our wonderful school.