Darien proposes five district instructional coaches, new universal literacy screener in FY27 budget

Darien Board of Education members on Jan. 13 reviewed a proposed FY27 schools and curriculum budget that would add five district instructional coaches, adopt a new CSDE-approved universal literacy screener and expand MTSS- aligned data systems to help teachers and families monitor progress.

The budget presentation by district administrators framed the request as an investment in “human capital.” Board Chair Mrs. Nelson noted that roughly 80% of the district’s budget is personnel and benefits; the presenters said the coaching positions are intended to strengthen consistency of instruction across classrooms rather than replace school-level roles. “An instructional coach is a really hands on position. They work directly day in and day out with teachers,” the presenter said, describing coaches’ duties as modeling, co-teaching, lesson planning and using student data to inform instruction.

Administrato…