Reading Academy Instructional Cohort Leader (25-26 SY)- Professional Learning
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READING ACADEMY INSTRUCTIONAL COHORT LEADER
Job Description
JOB TITLE: Reading Academy Instructional Cohort Leader
WAGE/HOUR STATUS: Exempt
FUNDING SOURCE: Early Literacy Funds
REPORTS TO: Professional Learning Director
PAY GRADE: Professional 04A (220 Days)
DEPARTMENT: Professional Learning
DATE REVISED: October 2025
This position is eligible for a Chapter 21 contract.
PRIMARY PURPOSE:The primary purpose of this professional position is to implement the House Bill 3 Reading Academies as required by the state and maintain compliance documentation to ensure that teachers have met all expectations for the academy.
Qualifications
Minimum Education/Certification:
- Master’s degree in a directly related field preferred
- Valid Texas teaching certification for K-3
- Texas Bilingual certification preferred
- Demonstrated proficiency on the TEA Biliteracy Cohort Leader Screener and completion of all required Cohort Leader training
- Demonstrated expertise in early literacy instruction, including phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension aligned to the K–3rd grade ELAR TEKS
- In-depth knowledge of the HB3 Texas Reading Academies content and the Science of Teaching Reading (STR)
- Ability to review, evaluate, and provide timely, actionable feedback on K–3rd grade teacher-developed artifacts in alignment with Reading Academies scoring rubrics
- Knowledge of formative and summative assessment practices and the ability to use student data to inform literacy instruction and intervention
- Strong understanding of adult learning principles and the ability to facilitate professional learning that supports teacher growth and reflection
- Ability to coach and mentor educators using effective questioning, feedback, and modeling techniques
- Experience in the design, delivery, and evaluation of professional learning experiences that lead to improved instructional practices
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple cohorts, timelines, and reporting requirements
- Excellent oral, written, and digital communication skills, including comfort with online platforms and the Learning Management System (LMS) used in Reading Academies
- Effective collaboration and interpersonal skills to work with district staff, campus administrators, and TEA-authorized providers
- Demonstrated critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to support educators in applying evidence-based reading practices
- Minimum of three (3) years of demonstrated expertise in developmentally appropriate practices for K-3 students in reading and writing within general education or special education settings; experience working with at-risk students preferred
- Previous experience in leading adult professional learning required
- Previous campus or district leadership experience preferred
Instructional Leadership
- Collaborate with key stakeholders across departments to facilitate the district’s implementation of HB3 Reading Academies
- Manage the TEA Learning Management System (LMS) in accordance with HB3 Reading Academies guidelines
- Provide technology troubleshooting and support for HB3 Reading Academies participants
- Design, facilitate, and deliver professional learning for Reading Academies participants across all K-3rd subject areas
- Monitor and support the implementation of HB 3 Reading Academies content and practices to improve early literacy instruction and student outcomes
- Review and evaluate participant artifacts and instructional practices; provide feedback and coaching support as needed
- Facilitate ongoing two-way communication with all staff participating in and supporting the HB3 Reading Academies
- Communicate with district leadership and the Board of Trustees on progress, compliance, and implementation of HB3 Reading Academies
- Contribute to the development, communication, and implementation of the District Improvement Plan to meet early literacy goals and requirements
- Serve on district committees and task forces related to early literacy development
- Collaborate with the Director of Professional Learning to plan for and manage assigned funds
- In coordination with the Curriculum and Instruction Department, recommend instructional resources to support early literacy development and HB3 Reading Academies implementation
- Support district/community projects, programs, and events that highlight educational achievement and literacy growth
- Serve as a district representative to interpret and communicate program goals and outcomes to community stakeholders
- Stay current on research-based best practices in literacy instruction and adult professional learning by engaging in professional learning opportunities, collaborating with peers, ongoing professional reading and applying new learning to improve facilitation and coaching practices
- Participate in professional organizations and serve on committees that advance early literacy and educator development
- Adhere to the Texas Educators’ Code of Ethics, district policies, and administrative regulations
- Maintain confidentiality, meet deadlines, and uphold professional standards in all aspects of work
Mental Demands/Physical Demands: Maintain emotional control and exercise reasoning and problem-solving skills under stress. Demonstrate effective communication (verbal and written). Adhere to timelines and submit all required documentation promptly. Frequent lifting and carrying moderate weight instructional materials may be required. Frequent in-district and occasional in-state travel.
Safety: Contribute to the prevention of accidents and injuries by following all District safety policies and procedures. Participate required safety training, use personal protective equipment when necessary, report injuries and incidents immediately to supervisor, and proactively support continuous workplace safety improvements.
The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.