Thumbnail for article discussing roles of the learning coach.

Student success in Aiken iNNOVATE is a true partnership — 50% program staff, 50% families.
Because our program is fully virtual, the support students receive at home is just as important as the instruction they receive from our teachers. The bridge between school and home is the Learning Coach — often a parent, guardian, or trusted adult who is committed to guiding, encouraging, and helping the student thrive.

Below are the key duties of a Learning Coach and practical ways to make the role meaningful for your child’s success.


✅ Monitor Student Grades

Staying informed about progress is crucial. Learning Coaches should:

  • Download the PowerSchool app to quickly check grades and ensure assignments are on track

  • Regularly check both PowerSchool and Schoology for class updates and performance

  • Hold weekly check-ins with the student to discuss progress and goals

  • Celebrate successes and address struggles early, before they snowball


⏰ Support Time Management & Organization

Virtual learning requires structure. Learning Coaches can:

  • Help students set daily and weekly schedules with clear routines

  • Encourage use of planners, checklists, or online tools to organize tasks

  • Guide students in breaking down big projects into manageable steps


💻 Assist with Technology

Technology is central to iNNOVATE and students need consistent support. Coaches should:

  • Help students log in, save passwords, and manage digital platforms

  • Troubleshoot issues when possible, and connect with tech support when needed

  • Make sure devices are charged, updated, and ready for learning each day


🗣️ Facilitate Communication

Strong communication ensures students don’t fall behind. Coaches should:

  • Download the ACPSD app to stay updated with announcements, notifications, and school communications

  • Help students draft respectful, professional messages to teachers

  • Reach out to teachers themselves if a student needs support or clarification

  • Keep contact information (email and phone numbers) accurate in PowerSchool so teachers can always connect


📖 Support Academic Success at Home

Learning Coaches sometimes step in to encourage and scaffold learning. This can include:

  • Assisting with understanding assignments when needed

  • Helping prepare for tests, quizzes, and upcoming projects

  • Quizzing, reviewing study guides, or role-playing presentations


🏡 Create a Productive Learning Environment

The home learning environment plays a big role in how students engage. Coaches should:

  • Ensure workspaces are quiet, organized, and free from distractions

  • Set clear rules for when TVs, phones, and tablets can and cannot be used

  • Pay close attention to younger students—don't leaving them home alone during school hours without support and monitoring


📣 Stay Connected with Aiken iNNOVATE Staff

When issues arise, communication is key. Learning Coaches:

  • Should promptly reach out to Aiken iNNOVATE staff if technological, academic, or personal concerns affect learning

  • Are essential partners in problem-solving, ensuring that families and staff work together to support the student


🌟 The Big Picture

Learning Coaches are not expected to replace teachers—but they are the cheerleaders, organizers, and accountability partners who make the difference in a student’s success. By monitoring, supporting, and encouraging daily progress, Learning Coaches empower students to take ownership of their learning and grow into independent, confident learners.

👉 Ready to take on this rewarding partnership? Learn more and apply today at www.acpsd.net/ai