Director of Instruction Job Description - Salary, Education and Career Guide for Becoming a Director of Instruction

A lesser-known job of great importance in education administration is a director of instruction. A director of instruction is an education supervisor who works directly with teachers to provide instructional leadership and improve student achievement.
 
Because of the eclectic roles they play in education, directors of instruction may be known by several other titles, including:
  • curriculum specialists
  • facilitators
  • instructional coordinators
  • staff development specialists
  • teacher trainers.

Job Description

Instructional coordinators play a large role in improving the quality of education in the classroom. They must:
  • assess educational programs for quality and adherence to regulations and standards
  • assist in implementing new technology in the classroom
  • develop curricula
  • select textbooks and other materials
  • train teachers.
At primary and secondary school levels, directors of instruction often specialize in specific subjects. At the postsecondary level, coordinators may work with employers to develop training programs that produce qualified workers.
 
While directors of instruction do not necessarily assess teachers, they do evaluate what is taught. One of the fundamental aspects of director of instruction jobs is to evaluate how well a school or training program's curriculum, or plan of study, meets students' needs.
 
Based on research and observations of instructional practice, they recommend improvements. Directors of instruction research teaching methods and techniques, and develop procedures to ensure that instructors are implementing the curriculum successfully and meeting program goals. They also:
  • Enhance student learning using the Internet: They may introduce new technology, invite computer experts to speak, and research instructional software.
  • Instruct teachers: Many instructional coordinators plan and provide on-site education for teachers and administrators. They also may mentor new teachers and train experienced ones in the latest instructional methods.
  • Review teaching materials: Instructional coordinators review textbooks, software and other educational materials. They also make recommendations for purchases.

Salary Guide

Experience and school district location can play a large part in a director of instruction salary. The median annual salary for a director of instruction is about $52,790, with the lowest 10 percent of salaries at less than $29,040, and the highest 10 percent at more than $87,510.
 
The number of instructional coordinators is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the next 10 years. Opportunities will likely be best in reading, science and math, due to a national focus on the No Child Left Behind initiative.

Education and Training

The minimum educational requirement for most instructional coordinator positions in public schools is a master's degree or higher, usually in education. A state license in teaching or administration is also required.
 
Training is also necessary in curriculum development and instruction, or in a specific educational area such as mathematics or history. Once a position is secured, instructional coordinators are required to take continuing-education courses to keep their skills current. Depending on the state, a teaching or education-administrator license is needed to work in public schools.

Prior Work Experience

To become a director of instruction, previous work experience in the education field or corporate administration is helpful.

Career Advancement

Depending on experience and education, instructional coordinators may advance to higher administrative positions in a school system, or to management or executive positions in private industry. They may also advance by transferring to larger and more prestigious school districts.

Related Associations and Groups

For more information about director of instruction jobs, you may want to contact your local school system and state department of education. Many professional associations exist as well to help directors of instruction, including:
  • American Association of School Administrators
  • Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
  • National Education Association.
 
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