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Literacy Coaching as a Change Lever in Underperforming Schools: Conflicting Demands and Confounding Practices

Wed, April 23, 4:20 to 5:50pm MDT (4:20 to 5:50pm MDT), The Colorado Convention Center, Floor: Ballroom Level, Four Seasons Ballroom 4

Abstract

This study examines literacy coaching as a change lever in underperforming Israeli schools serving minoritized populations. Through ethnographic research across 17 schools, including observations and interviews, the study uncovers coaches' perceptions, practices, and challenges. Key findings reveal tensions between supplying teaching materials and developing teachers' adaptive expertise, as well as between building interpersonal relationships and engaging in critical discourse. Coaching practices differed between Hebrew-speaking and Arabic-speaking schools, highlighting cultural adaptation needs. The study provides insights into power dynamics, coaching competencies, and on-the-job professional development. Its findings have implications for coach training, program design, and educational improvement efforts in diverse contexts. The research contributes to understanding literacy coaching implementation across local contexts and informs broader instructional support strategies.

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