Playful Learning Instructional Coach - Loudoun County Elementary Schools

Position: Active Playful Learning Instructional Coach - Loudoun County Elementary Schools
The Center for the Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning (CASTL) in the School of Education and Human Development at the University of Virginia seeks applicants for an Active Playful Learning Instructional Coach for elementary teachers. This role will include both on-site work in Loudoun Co, VA elementary schools, as well as remote work.

Founded in 2006, the Center for Advanced Study of Teaching and Learning (CASTL) is an interdisciplinary research center that aims to advance the quality of teaching and learning, from infancy to higher education. Our research initiatives span the globe, and our faculty are leading the way to promote meaningful changes in education. We believe effective teaching and learning are the foundation for opportunity, success and well-being.

Our mission is to advance the quality and impact of teaching through scientific study in educational settings from infancy to higher education.

The incumbent will become part of a vibrant team of faculty, students, and staff conducting research on active playful learning in Virginia elementary schools. Specifically, the Active Playful Learning (APL) Instructional Coach will work with the University of Virginia, a subrecipient of a LEGO Foundation grant, to support the goals of the project measuring the impact of Active Playful Learning in classrooms across the U.S.

* As an APL instructional coach, you will collaborate with other APL coaches to support elementary school teachers in Loudoun Co. Public Schools to implement Active Playful Learning in math instruction through whole staff training, grade-level meetings, classroom observations, and individual coaching sessions.

* The APL instructional coach will regularly collect data and support research efforts on the implementation of APL in classrooms.

* APL instructional coaches will be a member of the University of Virginia research team and work under the direct supervision of Dr. Burchinal, with additional direction and support from Dr. Hofkens at RAND.

Role and Responsibilities

* Conduct bi-weekly classroom visits with up to 15 elementary teachers in the Loudoun Co. school district to observe, model, co-teach and support teachers with APL implementation

* Conduct bi-weekly practice-based coaching sessions with teachers to co-design goals and action plans to integrate APL practices into math instruction and assist with resources, materials, and tools to promote APL in the classroom

* Lead monthly APL professional development for grade level teams

* Build and maintain strong positive relationships with teachers, administrators, other coaches, and researchers, without judgment or bias, recognizing and respecting individual differences and backgrounds

* Ensure timely completion of research tasks and documentation, maintain accurate records and schedules, and communicate relevant updates to team members

* Work effectively and flexibly with adult learners by providing encouragement, emotional support, and strength-based feedback to facilitate growth

* Work as part of a team at the University of Virginia, and collaborate and partner, as needed, with the national APL team, and the RAND research partners

* Attend a summer multi-day professional conference (travel & accommodation will be provided) and engage in ongoing professional development and training with the national APL team

Minimum Requirements

* Education:

Bachelor's degree required

* Experience:

5+ years of relevant professional experience required

Preferred Qualifications

* Master's degree in early childhood education, education, related field or demonstrated mastery in their specialty area normally signified by significant equivalent experience

* At least five years of experience teaching Kindergarten and/or Grade 1-3

* Experience with teaching elementary mathematics and/or with elementary mathematics curriculum

* Experience in instructional coaching or related role preferred

* Experience in development, preparation, and presentation of professional development preferred

* Currently certified to teach Kindergarten and/or Grade 1-3 in Virginia

Physical Demands

This job requires reliable transportation. We anticipate the successful candidate will regularly visit schools in Loudoun Co. Public Elementary Schools to conduct observations and coaching sessions with up to 15 teachers. The job involves occasional travel to Charlottesville to meet with the research team. Transportation costs will be reimbursed.

Anticipated Hiring Range: $70,000 - $80,000, commensurate with education and experience.

Anticipated

Start Date:

July 1, 2026

Position Type and Work Location

* This is a full-time, Exempt-level, benefited position. Learn more about UVA benefits.

* This restricted position is a 12-month appointment, and continuation is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

* This role will include both on-site work in Loudoun County, VA elementary schools and remote work, in alignment with UVA's remote work guidelines.

To learn more about UVA and the…