Early Literacy Instructional Lead

About the role

The Early Literacy Lead is an exciting opportunity for an individual with deep content knowledge of literacy at the primary school level (Pre‑K through 2nd Grade) and a passion for curriculum and instruction. The Lead will drive state‑level literacy strategy and implementation, build teacher and API content knowledge, and accelerate student achievement across Pre‑K‑2 classrooms. About 75 % of the time will be spent in schools and classrooms, with travel across Austin, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.

Responsibilities

• Implement the KIPP Texas Early Literacy Strategy and execute multi‑year Pre‑K‑3rd grade initiatives, including the Texas Reading Academies.
• Lead Reading Academies modules, facilitate coaching cycles, and align learning with School Leader development of literacy instruction and achievement.
• Coach and support Pre‑K instructional leaders, Reading Academies participants, Assistant Principals of Instruction (APIs), and teachers to achieve literacy goals.
• Analyze student‑, teacher‑, school‑, and regional‑level data to identify strengths and growth opportunities aligned with the Science of Teaching Reading.
• Manage success of Reading Academies implementation for assigned cohorts.
• Lead implementation of state literacy priorities, including reading growth assessments and foundational literacy for grades Pre‑K‑3.
• Develop, manage, and lead literacy pilots statewide; gather weekly implementation data and make programmatic recommendations.
• Model the three instructional coaching power moves: intellectual preparation, instructional coaching, and data‑driven instruction.
• Coach regional Early Literacy leads, APs, School Leaders, and regional academic team members in the power moves.
• Conduct Texas‑wide and region‑specific data analysis to guide intentional, data‑driven instructional responses.
• Collaborate with the Director of Foundational Literacy and the Instructional Excellence team to maintain strong curriculum feedback cycles, vertical alignment, and streamlined literacy support.
• Support KTX regions in developing literacy‑specific professional learning scope & sequence and professional learning plans.
• Plan and lead virtual and in‑person literacy professional development for Reading Academies participants (K‑3), including lesson and module internalization and data response.

Qualifications

• Successful completion of the Texas Reading Academies Cohort Leader screener (required prior to employment).

Skills

• Content and Pedagogical Expertise: Deep knowledge of early primary literacy (Pre‑K‑3), balanced literacy components, foundational literacy (phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension), and literacy assessments.
• Technical Skills: Detail‑oriented with strong accuracy in curriculum and assessments; ability to create and manage work plans; proficient in Microsoft Office; adept at virtual and in‑person communication.
• Communication, Interpersonal and Team Skills: Builds strong relationships across stakeholder levels; tailors verbal and written communication; motivates partnership toward ambitious goals; resolves conflicts and navigates large‑district systems.
• Problem Solving and Systems‑Level Thinking: Understands inter‑departmental interactions; makes data‑driven decisions; creates innovative solutions; adapts to shifting priorities with analytical rigor.
• Leadership Skills: Inspires and mobilizes adults; builds coalitions with regional leaders, school leaders, coaches, teachers, and students; sets clear expectations, deliverables, and deadlines.
• Empathy and Commitment to Cause: Deep belief in KIPP’s mission; cultural competence; empathy for urban school district challenges; passion for high student achievement.

Physical requirements

The position requires the ability to move about inside and outside school sites throughout the workday, attend conferences, meetings, and training sessions both virtually and in person, and handle frequent interruptions while maintaining emotional control under stress.

Work environment

Hybrid work model: reports to the central office or schools three days a week. Minimal travel to other school sites or regional offices for professional learning, meetings, and related activities.

Travel requirements

Minimal travel; may include trips to other school sites or regional offices for professional learning, meetings, and other work‑related activities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans with coverage options for employees and families.
• Competitive vacation and flexible paid time off (PTO) policies.
• Paid family leave.
• Flexible spending account or high‑yield HSA.
• Employee assistance programs.
• Employee‑paid legal plans, LifeLock identity protection, life insurance, and disability insurance.