Job Description
The Leading Men Fellowship is a year‑long, part‑time professional development and mentorship program administered by The Literacy Lab. Designed to recruit, train, and support male-identifying volunteers (particularly men of color) to serve as reading coaches in under‑resourced early‑childhood and elementary classrooms, fellows commit 10 hours per week to one‑on‑one literacy interventions over the academic year.
Role Description:
Fellows will engage in the following activities:
- Direct Coaching: Deliver structured, evidence‑based literacy tutoring to small groups or individual K–3 readers, using The Literacy Lab’s scripted curriculum and progress monitoring tools.
- Professional Workshops: Attend monthly virtual and quarterly in‑person training sessions on child development, literacy pedagogy, trauma‑responsive teaching, and culturally responsive mentoring.
- Mentorship & Community: Participate in a peer cohort with regular reflection circles; each fellow is paired with a senior staff mentor for ongoing support and career guidance.
- Family Engagement: Partner with classroom teachers and families to share student progress, model reading strategies, and co‑create at‑home literacy plans.
Location:
School‑based placements in partnership with public elementary schools in Washington, D.C., Richmond, VA, and Norfolk, VA. Fellows travel to their assigned school site 2–3 days per week and convene quarterly at regional offices or partner universities.
Application Cycle:
Annually.
What You’ll Need:
- Male‑identifying individual (18+), with a passion for literacy equity and serving young learners.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience; prior teaching, tutoring, or mentorship experience preferred.
- Commitment of 10 hours per week during school hours and availability for training sessions.
- Strong communication skills, cultural humility, and reliability.
Benefits and Perks:
- Stipend: $3,600 paid in monthly installments for the academic year.
- Professional Growth: Access to The Literacy Lab’s national training resources, certification opportunities in literacy instruction, and coaching skills workshops.
- Networking: Membership in a national alumni network and invitations to education conferences, site tours, and partner events.
- Impact Recognition: End‑of‑year awards ceremony celebrating student literacy gains and fellow contributions; letters of recommendation and resume support.
Where and How You Can Apply:
Submit your application online via The Literacy Lab’s Leading Men Fellowship portal. Required materials include:
- Résumé or CV.
- A personal statement (300 words) describing your motivation and vision for literacy coaching.
- Two references (professional, academic, or community) who can attest to your suitability for educational mentoring.