Job Opportunity for Block Program Coordinator, Literacy at Room to Read in India – Karnataka

**Job Title:** Block Program Coordinator, Literacy

**Job Location:** India – Karnataka

**About Room to Read:**

Room to Read is a rapidly growing, innovative non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children in developing countries through education.  We work to improve literacy and girls’ education, believing that educated children are the key to a brighter future.  We offer a unique opportunity to be part of a meaningful organization making a global impact.

**Position Overview:**

The Block Program Coordinator (BPC) plays a crucial role in the planning and execution of Room to Read’s literacy program at the field level in Karnataka, India.  This position provides strategic, technical, and management support, overseeing program quality, coordination, development, and reporting for a designated group of schools.  The BPC will identify and address program design and management issues, collaborating with supervisors to find solutions.  They will also assist in teacher training and capacity building for government officials, serving as the primary contact for schools and local government officials.  This role requires frequent travel to project sites and regular interaction with various stakeholders.

**Roles & Responsibilities:**

* **Program Understanding:**  Demonstrate a strong understanding of Room to Read’s literacy program design and effectively communicate this information to diverse audiences. Possess a comprehensive awareness of literacy programs, their design, and strategies within the project region.  Ensure adherence to program guidelines within assigned schools.

* **Technical Assistance and Advocacy:** Serve as a technical resource at the block level, participating in government meetings and advocating for policies supportive of Room to Read’s literacy program.  Actively participate in district and block-level discussions, promoting Room to Read’s approach to foundational literacy and reading programs.

* **Training, Workshops, and Meetings:** Provide technical oversight to Cluster Resource Persons (CRPs) and Block Education Officers (BEOs), supporting their interactions with teachers and schools. Identify capacity-building needs and develop plans in collaboration with the State and Country office team.  Act as a resource person for teacher training and capacity building, assisting in planning district/state-level trainings. Conduct monthly review meetings with BEOs and CRPs.

* **Program Coordination and Monitoring:** Manage the implementation of the literacy program for assigned schools, ensuring timely, efficient, and coordinated execution within budget guidelines.  Collect, analyze program data, identify issues, and contribute to larger discussions.  Ensure timely distribution of books and materials to program schools. Maintain accurate program data entry and compilation.

* **School Visits:** Regularly visit program schools, observing classroom activities and library functions, and interacting with teachers and headmasters in coordination with CRPs.  Conduct structured observations of teachers, providing coaching and support to enhance their reading practices.

**Qualifications & Experience:**

* Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Social Sciences, or equivalent required; Master’s Degree preferred.

* Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in the development sector.

* In-depth knowledge of language, reading practices, and approaches.

* Strong written and oral communication skills.

* Excellent interpersonal skills and teamwork abilities.

* Proven track record of achieving results.

* Proven ability to work effectively with schools and communities.

* Ability to travel regularly to remote project sites.

* Knowledge of Kannada required.

**Compensation:**

Salary will be commensurate with experience.  Health benefits are provided.  Non-monetary compensation includes the opportunity to contribute to a meaningful organization.  Room to Read is a child-safe organization.