What are the responsibilities and job description for the Instructional Coach - Early Head Start position at NEMCSA?
The Instructional Coach for Early Head Start, Home-Based program staff is responsible for providing on-going coaching for Home Visitors. This position utilizes a research based coaching strategy which entails goal setting, mentoring, observation, reflection, and feedback to home visiting staff. The Instructional Coach provides support in effective strategies in the home that lead to positive outcomes for children and families. Supporting the parallel process through the context of a collaborative relationship, the Instructional Coach will focus on individual and group professional learning. The Instructional Coach for EHS Home-Based programs will expand Home Visitor’s understanding of the Head Start-Early Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework, School Readiness Goals, HOVRS assessment, and implementation of evidence-based home visiting curriculum.
- Provide coaching and support to all Home Visitors, as well as providing specific support and engaging home visiting staff identified for intensive coaching;
- Observe home visits and/or group socialization sessions for adult-child interactions using prescribed tools;
- Model effective ways to support parents as their child’s first and best teacher.
- Offer support, guidance and ideas to Home-Based Team Leaders, as well as direct service staff, to improve home visiting strategies utilizing a research based coaching strategy;
- Use adult learning principles and assessment data to drive individualized coaching strategies that are aligned with program performance goals;
- Coordinate and ensure quality communication between Home Visitors, Home-Based Team Leaders, and EHS Director;
- Communicate effectively with others to include giving and receiving feedback and being an active listener;
- Facilitate the development of professional development plans for assigned staff and mentor staff toward goal achievement;
- Complete additional training as required by continuing education plan;
- Build a trusting, supportive relationship with Home Visitors to ensure successful coaching;
- Assist in developing shared goals and plans with each Home Visitor involved in intensive coaching, based on needs that both the Home Visitor and Instructional Coach have identified and agreed upon;
- Offer support to newly hired Home Visitors during their orientation period (first twelve months) through individual or small group training activities;
- Respect and support /program staff by being punctual and, when possible, providing assistance as requested;
- Utilize videotaping only as a learning tool and a means for reflection;
- Provide support by: sharing resources, providing modeling of effective home visiting practices, observing current practices, and providing supportive and constructive feedback;
- Complete required documentation of relevant activities and progress; submit records and reports in a timely and accurate manner;
- Participate in regular meetings to ensure the needs of children and families are being met, as requested;
- Maintain knowledge and proficiency in current database systems such as ChildPlus and TS Gold;
- Develop technology skills and use software programs, as requested;
- Gather, analyze, and summarize data for use in future program planning, to include creation of and/or revision of current documents;
- Maintain confidentiality and code of ethics at all times.
