Vulnerability and reflection are keys to continuous teacher growth. Vulnerability requires trust. Expectations can help establish, fulfill, and build that trust. Too often, I find that unclear expectations around roles and processes limit the building of a safe environment that’s required for vulnerability and trust. I’ve been zeroing in on what value we might gain […]

Just like classroom environment impacts student learning, school environment impacts staff learning and teaching. How does coaching assist teachers in understanding and influencing the environment and conditions that will support learning? What roles do instructional coaches, teacher leaders and administrators play in cultivating the needed school environment? Examine the differences in managing and leading. Read […]

I had the pleasure to be a presenter at Jim Knight’s TLC21 Conference. Jim joined my session and shared his insights as we explored four different mindsets. In part 2, we examine a longer-term focus rather than the usual education short-term and how we can use our proximity to students for greater learning impact. View […]

What are the messages you want to share with teachers as the winter break draws close and as teachers and students return to school in January? Are staff and students languishing? Do we need to refocus on “what really matters?” How can you communicate to teachers that you support and encourage their focus on what […]

How can coaching assist educators in examining their empowerment to generate increased satisfaction and energy in teaching and learning? This refocus at times rather than a focus on “what has to be done” can be encouraging and energizing. Dr. Maria Gottschalk, an organizational psychologist, suggests exploring questions like, “what do you need to feel engaged […]

Building students’ abilities to focus became increasingly important prior to the pandemic and has increased importance as students return to classrooms now and in the fall. Clinical psychologist and director of the SKIPS (Skills for Kids, Parents, and Schools), Marie-Nathalie Beaudoin, shares ways that teachers can plan specific practices that support students in developing focusing […]