Deciding if or when to make a suggestion to a teacher during coaching conferences is a question that as coaches we continually ponder. I consider it a question to be answered during the coaching conference. The key is TIMING. Is the teacher ready (interested in) considering a suggestion. How can a coach read timing and […]

It’s common for coaches to be pulled into quick problem solving when teachers share a problem or concern. There is much to be gained by coaching slow initially, to seek real understanding, in order to go fast later. In this podcast, Steve shares some of the reasons and models a coaching conference with a teacher […]

How do you personalize coaching conferences so that the teacher’s agenda is driving the process. Working from the teacher’s agenda and maintaining that focus builds trust and increases teacher’s vulnerability which increases teacher growth. A sample conference with a teacher is included. Find the Evaluation Coaching Continuum here. Find the Diagram on Teachers’ Agenda here. […]

I was triggered to write this blog after listening to a podcast posted by Coach Better. The hosts along with four instructional coaches explored the question: “What are the best approaches to have difficult conversations or give difficult feedback to teachers?” Take a listen and compare their thoughts with yours. Here is some of my […]

I presented a session for instructional coaches looking to sharpen their questioning skills for conferencing and facilitating along with the deepening an understanding for coaching teachers on their use of questions. Here is the session description: There is a strong connection between questioning and learning. Teachers’ questions can engage and model thinking processes that students […]