"An excellent resource for both beginning and experienced literacy coaches. This well-conceived book is grounded in a realistic understanding of what it means to work collaboratively and effectively in the demanding world of today's schools." -Dorothy S. Strickland, Samuel DeWitt Proctor Professor of Education Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey "If a coach could only have one book to help with the daunting task of advancing teachers' instructional knowledge and skills, then this is the text to own. Coaches everywhere have been waiting for a book like this!" -Connie Molony, Reading Intervention Specialist Fargo Public Schools, ND A concise reference with essential protocols for successful early literacy coaching! Literacy coaches have become an increasingly important part of school literacy teams. As a result, there is a greater need for understanding the issues related to this growing position. This book addresses those issues and highlights the expanding role of literacy coaches in early and elementary literacy programs. Chapters feature user-friendly guidelines and evidence-based strategies for sustained professional development, protocols for classroom observations and teacher conferences, and vignettes offering solutions to common coaching challenges. Coaches will discover how to: Define an effective, proactive role in promoting literacy initiatives Strengthen content knowledge and coaching skills to support teachers' efforts and students' literacy development Collaborate with teachers and school leaders to establish productive learning communities Communicate their changing roles to administrators Insightful and thought-provoking, The Literacy Coach's Companion, PreK-3 is a must-have resource for pursuing professional growth as a literacy coach.