Mattering is the feeling that we are valued and have value to add to the world. When we build a mattering ecosystem that helps adults feel valued and significant, we’re creating the conditions for children to feel they matter. What are coaching actions that signal mattering to their coachees and help build an ecosystem of […]

In coaching—whether you’re supporting a teacher, leading a professional learning team, or working with a school leader—listening is foundational. And yet, in the name of productivity, efficiency, or simply staying on schedule, we can too easily slip into haste. “We nod instead of reflect. We respond instead of inquire. We react instead of understand.” A […]

In moments of disagreement or rising tension, conversations can easily stall or break down. That’s where a verbal skill called “supporting statements” can help. Early in my teacher leadership career, I learned how these statements act as a bridge—keeping the dialogue open and productive. A supporting statement doesn’t necessarily mean agreement; it reflects understanding. It […]

Looking back on my 35 years of working in the field of coaching, I am pulling some of the authors, beliefs, experiences, and insights that I believe form a foundation for those building their coaching practices. In this first episode, I’ve focused on Joellen Killion’s explanation of the importance of “coaching heavy.” She reminds us […]

The first days and weeks of school with new students are important in impacting future learning. Purposeful plans for learning about students and having them learn about you are valuable. Setting the stage for building trust and relationships are worth the investment in time and energy. Listen to Tara Brown’s podcast episode here. Watch Kent […]

Last year I posted a blog focusing on building developmental relationships with students. The work of Search Institute helped me be clear on what it means to have teachers focus on building relationships. They define developmental relationships as close connections through which young people discover who they are, cultivate abilities to shape their own lives, […]