Substitute Reading Coach 

(Independent Contractor, On-Call Pool)

About J3 Foundation

J3 Foundation (J3) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to give scholars the foundation they need for a lifetime of reading success. J3 equips 4th graders in under-resourced communities with the tools they need to achieve grade-level literacy while fostering self-confidence, a love of reading, and an identity as lifelong learners.

Launched in 2018, J3 was created in response to alarming data showing that 4th graders reading below grade level in under-resourced schools face increased risks of incarceration or dependence on public assistance as young adults. J3 works to change that narrative by providing reading intervention programs and after-school reading clubs to students in Los Angeles County, with plans to expand nationwide.

Position Overview

J3 Foundation is building a substitute pool of 3 independent contractors to serve as Substitute Reading Coaches on an as-needed basis. Substitute Coaches ensure program continuity when regular Reading Coaches are unavailable.

Using the research-based SIPPS curriculum, substitutes provide small-group instruction, maintain a restorative learning environment, and support student progress. Assignments may be communicated the day prior or same-day and may occur at different school sites within J3’s partner network.

This is an independent contractor role coordinating with a J3 Program Manager for assignment coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver small-group reading instruction (max 6 students) using the SIPPS curriculum during substitute assignments
• Deliver instruction aligned with the provided resources to ensure instructional consistency
• Foster a restorative and inclusive classroom culture that supports student engagement and growth
• Submit attendance and session documentation related to student performance 
• Communicate promptly with the J3 Program Manager regarding availability and assignment updates
• Adapt quickly to new school sites, staff, and student groups
• Represent J3 with professionalism, reliability, and commitment to equity
   

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education or related field
• 2+ years of experience working with students in an urban school setting
• Strong classroom management and instructional delivery skills
• Flexibility and adaptability in new classroom environments
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Reliable transportation to travel between multiple school sites
• Ability to accept short-notice assignments when possible

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in education
• Reading Specialist certification or 3+ years of experience teaching struggling readers
• California Teaching Credential
• Familiarity with SIPPS curriculum
• Bilingual proficiency (Spanish/English and/or Armenian/English)

Schedule and Compensation

• Type: Independent contractor, substitute coverage (no guaranteed minimum hours)
• Assignments: Typically during the school day, ~3–4 hours per shift
• Notice: May be contacted the day before or same-day to confirm availability
• Sites: May be assigned to different schools within J3’s program network
• Duration: School year (late August – late April, following school calendars)
• Budget: $33–38/hour (commensurate with experience). Contractors are paid for hours worked in connection with assignments, up to the agreed duration.
• Reimbursements: Mileage reimbursed for approved travel/material pickups

Contractor Notes

• Contractors are responsible for their own tax obligations and record-keeping.
• Contractors are not employees of J3 Foundation and are not eligible for employee benefits.

Commitment to Equity

J3 Foundation is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community of contractors who reflect the students and families we serve. We encourage applications from individuals whose lived experiences mirror those of the communities J3 supports.