Instructional Coordinator Career Guide

What Does an Instructional Coordinator Do?

Instructional coordinators, also known as curriculum specialists, oversee school curriculums and teaching standards. They develop educational material, implement it with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness. They evaluate the effectiveness of curriculums and teaching techniques established by school boards, states, or federal regulations by observing teachers in the classroom, reviewing student test data, and discussing the curriculum with school staff.

Day-to-day responsibilities include developing and implementing curriculums, planning and conducting teacher training workshops and conferences, analyzing students' test data, assessing curriculum standards with school staff, reviewing and suggesting textbooks and educational materials, recommending teaching techniques and new technologies, and training teachers in new content or programs. They may also mentor or coach teachers to improve their skills. Most work in elementary and secondary schools, colleges, or educational support services for state and local governments.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Master's degree in education or curriculum and instruction. Some positions require a degree in a specialized field like math or history.
• Certifications: Public school coordinators may need a state-issued teaching license or education administrator license. Requirements vary by state.
• Key Skills: Analytical skills to evaluate test data and teaching strategies, communication skills to explain curriculum changes, decision-making skills for recommending curriculum updates, interpersonal skills to maintain relationships with teachers and administrators, and leadership skills to mentor and train teachers.
• Experience: 5+ years of related work experience as a teacher or instructional leader. Some positions require experience teaching a specific subject or grade level.

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $74,720
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $46,560
• Experienced (90th percentile): $115,410
• Top-Paying Employers: Government ($85,000), Elementary and secondary schools ($77,710), Private colleges and universities ($69,970)
• Work Schedule: Generally work full time year-round (no summer breaks). May meet with teachers and administrators outside classroom hours.

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of instructional coordinators is projected to grow 1 percent from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 21,900 openings are projected each year on average over the decade. Most openings will result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or retire.

States and school districts will continue to be held accountable for test scores and graduation rates, putting more emphasis on student achievement data. As a result, schools may increasingly turn to instructional coordinators to help develop better curriculums and improve teachers' effectiveness. However, state and local government budget constraints may limit demand for these workers.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Earn a bachelor's degree in education, then gain teaching experience. Pursue a master's degree in curriculum and instruction or educational leadership. Consider specializing in a subject area (STEM, special education, ESL) for more opportunities.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Start as a classroom teacher, then move to department head, lead teacher, or instructional coach before becoming a coordinator.
3. Build Skills: Develop expertise in data analysis, curriculum design, instructional technology, and adult learning theory. Stay current with education research and teaching methodologies.
4. Network: Join professional associations like Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD), attend education conferences, and connect with administrators on LinkedIn.
5. Apply Strategically: Target school districts with strong professional development programs. Consider starting in educational support services or with curriculum publishers for alternative pathways.

Career Path & Advancement

Instructional coordinators may specialize in particular grade levels or specific subjects, such as special education or English as a second language. Those in elementary and secondary schools may focus on programs that address diverse student needs.

With enough experience and additional education, instructional coordinators can advance to become school principals, assistant superintendents, or superintendents. Some move into higher education administration or education policy roles. Others become consultants or start educational publishing companies.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in Instructional Coordinator, you might also consider:

• Elementary, Middle, and High School Principals: Median salary $104,070, oversee all school operations
• Training and Development Managers: Median salary $127,090, plan and direct skills enhancement programs in organizations
• Postsecondary Teachers: Median salary $83,980, instruct students beyond high school level
• School and Career Counselors: Median salary $65,140, help students develop academic and social skills