Instructional Coach (Summer 2026)

Breakthrough New York•New York, NY

2d•Onsite

About The Position

As an Instructional Coach (IC) at Breakthrough New York, you will play a critical role in ensuring the success of our Teaching Fellows (TFs) by providing instructional guidance, mentorship, and real-time feedback throughout the eight-week summer program. Reporting to the Program Manager, ICs oversee a department of 5-10 Teaching Fellows in a specific academic discipline—Literature, Math, Science, or Social Studies—helping them develop strong instructional practices and classroom management skills. This position is ideal for experienced educators looking to expand their instructional leadership skills. ICs are instrumental in maintaining the academic rigor of Breakthrough’s summer program, supporting Teaching Fellows—most of whom are college students exploring careers in education—as they gain hands-on teaching experience. Through coaching, lesson planning support, and structured feedback, ICs ensure high-quality instruction and help create a positive learning environment for students. Your leadership as an Instructional Coach will directly impact the next generation of educators, shaping their ability to engage students effectively while reinforcing a culture of high expectations and academic excellence. Many former ICs have gone on to instructional leadership roles, such as Academic Deans and full-time Instructional Coaches.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required, Master’s degree preferred
At least 3-4 years of professional classroom experience teaching in a middle school or high school
Outstanding track record with proven student achievement, preferably in an NYC school
A strong understanding of curriculum implementation and instruction
Experience coaching or working with teachers in building strong lesson planning and/or instructional skills
Comfort and confidence in working with middle school and college-aged students
Ability to multitask between projects and manage own time to meet goals
Exceptional interpersonal skills, especially in areas of cultural competency, and an ability to deliver positive, constructive, and honest feedback, both written and verbal
Creativity, energy, and commitment to excellence; professional demeanor and attitude
Demonstrates excellence in BTNY’s Core Values: Student-Centered Committed to Social Justice Community-Driven Principled Lifelong Learners
Demonstrates commitment to in BTNY’s Core Values

Nice To Haves

Prior experience with Breakthrough is highly desirable

Responsibilities

Observing Teaching Fellows’ lessons, providing real-time feedback, and offering actionable strategies for improvement.
Leading weekly department meetings to address instructional challenges, share best practices, and foster collaboration among TFs.
Conducting regular one-on-one check-ins with TFs to discuss lesson planning, student engagement, and classroom management.
Supporting TFs in designing and implementing rigorous, engaging, and student-centered lesson plans aligned with Breakthrough’s curriculum.
Ensuring Teaching Fellows uphold high expectations for student achievement and classroom culture.
Collaborating with the Program Manager and other ICs to ensure alignment across disciplines.
Providing input on curriculum modifications to enhance student learning outcomes.
Assisting in data collection and analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of instructional practices and inform program improvements.
Participating in professional development sessions to refine coaching strategies and stay informed on best practices in education.
Serving as a key member of the Breakthrough New York summer leadership team, contributing to program-wide initiatives.
Supporting Teaching Fellows in fostering an inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment.
Upholding Breakthrough’s mission, values, and commitment to DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging).
Assisting with summer program logistics, including student events, family engagement, and community-building activities.