Literacy Coaches/ Reading Coaches

Many of the programs implemented in the Reading Classroom rely heavily upon teacher-directed instruction. Therefore, literacy coaches help teachers implement the emphasized strategies and
Natasha Patterson

programs. In 2005, IRA surveyed reading/literacy coaches to determine what qualifications they were required to have for their positions and their duties and responsibilities. The survey was conducted on Zoomerang using a list of reading coaches and other reading professionals obtained from Market Data Retrieval. The survey went to 1053 individuals and 140 completed surveys were returned for a 13.2% return rate. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a teaching certificate are the only clear requirements that the coaches must have. Fewer than half the respondents indicated that a Masters (MA) in Literacy or any other related area were required. In addition excellent written and oral communication along with years of successful classroom experience were required.
The IRA recommended that the roles of the reading specialist should include:
· Instruction - The reading specialist supports classroom teaching and work collaboratively to implement a quality reading program.
· Leadership – The reading specialist is a resource to other educators, parents and the community.
· Assessment- The reading specialist evaluates the literacy program in general and can assess the reading strengths and needs of students and communicate these to the classroom teacher, parent and specialized personnel such as psychologists and special educators.