Coaching and Mentoring

Instructional Coaching

Meet with a reading specialist or instructional technology coach to work toward a specific teaching goal. 

Instructional coaching is completely optional and confidential by default. We will only share with your supervisor by your request.

This isn’t

A quick troubleshooting session (but we still do that!). 

Scheduling

We will meet during the work day when you are available. The goal of instructional coaching is to be helpful not to add more work. Typically an initial meeting will take place during prep, or before or after school.

The time commitment will depend on the goal we set- some goals will be accomplished in a meeting or two and others might take weeks. We can accomplish much of our work during class hours through modeling, co-teaching, and non-evaluative observation. We are a resource for you to draw upon. 

The process

1. Initial meeting- we get together to talk about and set a goal. This can include a classroom visit if you are unsure about what you wish to work on.

2. Coach brings ideas, support and resources and we try things together. Rinse and repeat until the goal is achieved! 

You do not need to have a goal in mind to begin this process

Instructional coaches can help with

Student Agency and Independence

Building student ability to take ownership of their learning: personalizing learning intentions, providing additional choice in topic and task, and supporting students in employing strategies for more independent learning. These strategies may include students advocating for the use of assistive technology tools when needed. 

Collaboration

Increasing classroom discussions; creating opportunities for students to work together to solve problems and share learning.

Critical Thinking

Improving students’ ability to investigate complex problems, evaluate different sources of information, and draw conclusions based on evidence and reasoning.

Assessment

Understand and use diagnostic, formative, and summative assessment strategies to gather data about and iterate on student learning. 

Differentiation

Identify individual student needs as well as skills and concepts that can be engaged with at multiple levels. Plan lessons that can be accessed by all students, including technology when needed. 

Content Support

Integrating literacy instruction into all subject areas.

Planning & Preparation

Effectively managing and optimizing curriculum development, lesson planning, and other preparatory tasks.

Instructional Engagement

Setting up and maintaining classroom systems and positive environmental strategies in order to build and sustain a safe and productive learning environment.

Professional Growth

Working toward PPDP and summative goals, as well as preparing for and reflecting after administrative observations.

Communication

Helping students share what they’ve learned orally, in writing, and through a variety of media. Moreover, help students connect with experts and fellow learners outside of their school — both locally and globally. 

Creativity and Innovation

Facilitating students' ability to generate unique ideas and perspectives, and use those perspectives to solve problems. 

General Technology Skills

Leveraging instructional and assistive technology tools effectively to meet the teaching and learning needs of students including operational competence, social competence, and strategic competence.

Family & Community Engagement

Explore tools to effectively communicate with family and community members, keeping them informed about student progress and cultivating a partnership with them.

Coaching areas heavily adapted from Challenged Based Coaching

You have a heart of gold and always know how to make others feel loved!