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Job Description
Instructional Coach School Year 2026 - 2027
About Little Water Prep:
Little Water Prep is a growing K-5 public charter school in Poughkeepsie, New York, committed to providing a nurturing and academically rigorous environment for all students. As we enter our fifth year, we are deepening our commitment to excellence by upholding high expectations and consistent academic and behavioral standards for every scholar. We believe that, like water, every student is essential and capable of achieving at high levels when placed in environments that are both challenging and affirming. Now serving over 300 students within the Poughkeepsie City School District, we continue to grow as a community grounded in strong systems, meaningful relationships, and measurable results.
Job Summary:
The Instructional Coach at Little Water Prep is responsible for driving high-quality teaching and learning across classrooms through coaching, modeling, and data-driven support. As a key instructional leader in the building, the Instructional Coach works closely with teachers, grade-level teams, and school leadership to strengthen instructional practices, build teacher capacity, and ensure all scholars achieve at high levels. This role is critical to advancing the school's pillars of Excellent Standards, Excellent Intellectual Preparation, and Excellent Systems & Routines. Key Responsibilities Instructional Leadership & Coaching Own the academic outcomes, teaching and learning, for assigned grade teams Provide ongoing, in-classroom coaching to teachers through observation, feedback, modeling, and co-teaching Build teacher capacity in lesson planning, execution, and reflection Model rigorous, standards-aligned lessons that demonstrate strong pacing, questioning, and student engagement Support teachers in implementing high-leverage instructional strategies, including Total Participation Techniques (TPT) Ensure alignment of instruction to curriculum, standards, and assessment expectations
Teacher Development & Coaching:
Partner with teachers to set clear, measurable professional development goals aligned to instructional priorities and student outcomes Track progress toward goals through regular observation, feedback cycles, and data analysis Provide targeted, actionable feedback that leads to immediate improvement in instructional practice Differentiate coaching based on teacher experience and performance, providing intensive support where needed Support teachers in reflecting on their practice and building ownership of their growth
Data-Driven Instruction:
Lead data analysis cycles (weekly, unit, and benchmark) to identify trends, gaps, and action steps Support teachers in using formative and summative data to adjust instruction in real time Support implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to ensure all students receive appropriate academic support
Professional Development:
Design and facilitate high-quality professional development aligned to instructional priorities Lead team meetings focused on student work, planning, and instructional improvement Provide actionable feedback that is specific, bite-sized, and aligned to clear outcomes Support new and developing teachers through onboarding, modeling, and targeted support
Curriculum & Planning Support:
Support teachers in internalizing curriculum and developing strong, standards-aligned lesson plans Review and provide feedback on lesson plans to ensure rigor, alignment, and clarity of objectives Ensure lessons include clear learning targets, checks for understanding, and opportunities for student discourse Collaborate with leadership to refine scope and sequence and instructional materials
School Culture & Systems:
Reinforce consistent implementation of school-wide systems and routines Support teachers in building strong classroom culture rooted in high expectations and positive relationships Promote student engagement, accountability, and ownership of learning Model professionalism, urgency, and a solutions-oriented mindset
Collaboration & Leadership:
Partner with school leadership to set and monitor instructional priorities. Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to school-wide decision-making. Manage grade-level teams to ensure alignment with instructional goals, student outcomes, and school-wide expectations. Support school initiatives, including grading practices, curriculum implementation and assessments.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree required (Master's preferred) & Valid New York State Teaching Certification Minimum of 3-5 years of successful teaching experience (elementary preferred) Demonstrated record of strong student achievement results Experience coaching teachers or leading adult learning (formal or informal) Deep knowledge of curriculum, instruction, and assessment practices
Compensation:
Salary Range:
$75,000 - $85,000 (commensurate with experience) Benefits include: health, dental, paid time off, retirement options, and professional development Compensation is based on qualifications, experience, and certifications
Pay:
$75,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year
Benefits:
401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Vision insurance
