#educoach Archive
The #educoach hashtag is used by instructional coaches around the world. We chat each Wednesday at 8pm CST on Twitter and use the hashtag throughout the week to share resources, ask questions and collaborate with instructional coaches.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Good evening Let’s start by introducing ourselves and sharing a success story from the week!
Excited to learn from today's 's chat.
Kenny, HS lit coach in NC. Taught a 5E science lit. training. T's implemented new lessons the next day.
I'm Kathy 1 of the moderators of & flying solo tonight. I wear many hats. 1 is Virtual Coach to Coaches! https://t.co/2e4FrEV2B6
I'm Kathy 1 of the moderators of & flying solo tonight. I wear many hats. 1 is Virtual Coach to Coaches! https://t.co/gyBkI10OzM
Jay, Principal from Merton, WI checking in to . Our . This intro to poetry by our LA teachers. https://t.co/hEa7epTwtY
Looking forward to this chat tonight
K-5 math coach in WI My this week was presenting at a conference w my fellow RFSD instructional coaches!
Hi ! Lauren, K-5 Instructional Coach, Indiana. Happy to be back to this chat after two weeks off for spring break!
A1: Greetings! ToSA at EL Specialist
Hello! Michelle, currently a 4th grade teacher in Oregon. Stepping into instr coach role this Sept. Please share tonite!
An was having the opportunity to attend the Iowa Teacher Leader session this week. So proud of IAs TL efforts!
AWESOME! I knew you would. :)
Natalie from Louisiana! Tech and instructional coach transitioning to 1st grade next year! Might doze off in a few!
Hi there! Currently getting my masters in Middle Childhood Ed and observing this chat tonight!
Michael Ross from Iowa. I will be an Instuctional Coach next year. - going to TLC conf. and getting the convo rolling
welcome! I think you will find as a great way to connect, share, and grow!
Eric, Instructional Coach at an urban pK-8 in Erie, PA. is helping to support Ts and Ss during state testing. Staying +!
Greetings! Jackie from PA. My was scheduling 3 1:1 collaborations with teachers for next week!
My practice is growing, bilingual teachers are asking to talk about ss too!
Hello ! Leslie from Iowa, tech integration, win = attending with this week!
I was there too! Amazing to be in the room with so many TLs Best of luck w/your transition!
is a great way to connect and prepare for your new role. Welcome!
Charlie - Instructional Coach in Iowa. is bringing home new baby girl from hospital yesterday!
Missed seeing you. I ran in to :) though!
Welcome to IC https://t.co/EutNe4roZh
Michael Ross from Iowa. I will be an Instuctional Coach next year. - going to TLC conf. and getting the convo rolling
welcome! Former 1st grade teacher here as well. You'll really enjoy ! I've learned so much from some great educators
CONGRATULATIONS! Best ever!
Hi ! I'm Mary from Washington. This week's success--attending a training with my administrator.
Evening ! Amanda, Math/Tech TOSA in NorCal. This wk's was scheduling 3 techified math demos for tmw!
congrats!! How exciting!!! 😊
Tonight’s topic is Overcoming barriers coaches face that affect their effectiveness & efficacy.
I'll be moving back to classroom and teaching 1st next year! Love though, but 1st grade will be awesome
That is a success. Difficult for me to get my admin away for trainings.
Eric Rodriguez, Digital Learning Coach from central Texas.
I will be moderating tonight’s chat solo. Tonight will be more of a free form chat. We will not be using Q1/A1 format.
Just sitting down to enjoy learning with tonight.
Misty, Literacy Coach from VA for MS and was completing 9th PD out of 10 session series. One to go.
I’d like tonight’s chat to meet your needs. Please mention a specific barrier and together we can help w/solutions.
I had some barriers mentioned today and will be adding them in if they don’t get mentioned.
Finishing plans now ;) But looks like robots in one class, interactive slides activity in another, & GoFormative
One barrier I face is working in multiple buildings & trying to develop a meaningful & productive schedule
So - what's on your mind? What is a barrier that is affecting effectiveness & efficacy in the role of a coach?
Barrier: principal perception of what a coach's role is. Does not allow for a true coaching model.
Barrier: Many Ts asked me about motivation issues w/ kids late in the year. So much more than a "strategy" Recommends?
Tech Integrationist from IA...ready to share and learn with
Welcome! We are in our first year of TLC grant. is great place to learn.
Well, 2 teachers just started this month for Ts that left. They are having hard time building relationships this late in the yr.
J.D. Williams, Instructional Coach in south Phoenix at a K-8 accelerated public school.
Have you showed him/her any literature about the role of the coach?
Before I fall asleep. Anyone have any advice about the transition back to the classroom after being a coach for 1-2 years?
1st grade is so tough, but also so worth the effort.
All ears here too. Moving next yr to GA and back in the class for me too.
I think you have to acknowledge that it will be difficult, while helping them do their best. Hard situation
Focusing on learning that is as student-driven as possible? Passion projects, stu choice, stu agency, authenticity
IC in Barrington, IL joining tonight for the first time.
Has principal attended any training with you? I love to have both principal and coach at my trainings.
That was our 1st convo, how tough this situation is. Asked them what they would have done if it was Sept?
sometimes this is the best time in the yr to introduce a new routine! Maybe a new tech tool? Spice it up to reengage?
I'm finishing up yr 4 as a secondary coach. A barrier I face is finding time for true PLC structure. How do others schedule?
For one T, it's logical for her to do PBL type lessons (medical CTE).
so glad that in our district we don't evaluate teachers. Really helps build relationships and get teachers to try things
Can you tell us more: How many buildings? What expectations regarding your time?
Do you or can you schedule weekly meetings w/principal?
Take what you've learned and implement w integrity. But baby steps, we learn a lot as coaches, can't do it all at once ;)
don't lose enthusiasm! You're getting an opportunity to try all the things you supported Ts. Just remember-take it slow!
good advice! I will need to "coach" myself! Haha!
I have found student choice and voice is a big motivator. Especially for end of yr projects.
Jennifer from Louisville joining in. Middle School Instructional Coach
My coaching team is reading Better Conversations. It is a great read about connecting.
Think about how much more reflective you will be as a teacher! Make the most of it!
all our grade levels have common planning time. We have PLC's every other Day 2 (on 4 day schedule).
you so will! I loved first grade! Such a big year for literacy growth! Feel free to DM me!
that is an awesome decision on behalf of admin. https://t.co/fAuTQGxkBM
so glad that in our district we don't evaluate teachers. Really helps build relationships and get teachers to try things
Great suggestions. One of the T's is trying this.
3 elementary schools. Currently a weekly rotations, which is better than former 2day, but not great
I meet weekly with our coach just to stay in touch with one another. Also meet weekly w/principal & coach from our other school.
As year 1 TOSA, a barrier I'm still working on is Ts feeling comfortable w/me visiting classrm
Have these Ts asked their Ss what they might like to study? Could they cover standards in a unit designed by kids?
we have little ability to schedule any time with Ps
My P and I meet weekly. This is so important for our coach/principal relationship.
https://t.co/POnyEDJ3Sr
Do you or can you schedule weekly meetings w/principal?
I agree. One T has rarely worked with me. Not sure if I have time to change her mindset this yr, but can plant seeds.
agree! I'm glad that I'm not seen as an evaluator! I love learning alongside Ts
Like this! Great to share ideas outside of bldg. https://t.co/DhsdyOWbFy
I meet weekly with our coach just to stay in touch with one another. Also meet weekly w/principal & coach from our other school.
Coaching is not a quick fix or speedy process.
I think one has (but tends to make it low-level). The other has trouble considering it.
Another barrier is inconsistent msging by site admin re: curriculum/instruction Makes helping 'innovate' difficult
So important to building strong relationships! - learning with and from each other https://t.co/0q1S0VWgKB
agree! I'm glad that I'm not seen as an evaluator! I love learning alongside Ts
Lack of student motivation can be helped with individual conversations. 2 minutes means a lot to anyone.
This is huge! I just put in a proposal to present on this topic at the next Ky Assoc School Admin Conf. https://t.co/q6zw7BDXv8
Barrier: principal perception of what a coach's role is. Does not allow for a true coaching model.
You're right. That's why I think I can only start shifting her thinking. Hope that she'll keep calling upon me.
I know this chat is a more free form. Be sure to scroll through tweets to find barriers to address. (Trying something new!)
have you read any of Marzano's or DuFour's work on PLCs?
Keeping shifting, the real progress can only occur once she is aware.
Makes me sad. Schools really need to get on the same page! :) Goes back to building consensus.
big difference in age but not in heart...they still need a great teacher and supporter! :-)
I need to add that I am a district coach, not tied to a campus. https://t.co/3cpabYvB2v
My P and I meet weekly. This is so important for our coach/principal relationship.
https://t.co/POnyEDJ3Sr
Do you or can you schedule weekly meetings w/principal?
I switched districts & had to just plow forward and DO differently when I could so others saw benefits=earned autonomy
all of our coaches went through 8 day Cognitive Coaching training. Wish principals did too. My principal is great w/ it
I think she's open. Stopped me in the hall, and began unloading. I found a short article for us to discuss.
Lots of mentions to lack of clear visions between principal/coach, central office/coach. Highly recommend https://t.co/KLiOGvZRce
Are you a site coach or district coach?
Me too. Which can be a barrier also. Multiple schools, Ts, Ps, teams. Can be a lot.
that is so true! My teachers are my "students" and the center of my world... Haha! I drop everything to help them out
Many of r convos this wk around shared mission/vision w end in mind, what do we want 4 Ss, how do we write?
I am also an "everywhere" coach!
I hope you have a lot of admin at your session! https://t.co/q3Enq4l6mV
This is huge! I just put in a proposal to present on this topic at the next Ky Assoc School Admin Conf. https://t.co/q6zw7BDXv8
Barrier: principal perception of what a coach's role is. Does not allow for a true coaching model.
Yes, & unfortunately I think part of mixed msging comes from game of telephone...I have yet to figure that out
Principal/coach ongoing meeting are very important.
Not really everywhere, but balance the needs of 4 schools and central office.
As one of my fellow coaches commonly asks, "Did they take the time to talk to the student & ask about motivation?"
Do you tend to do drop-ins? Would love to do these more often... get more time w/Ss & see learning happening live
It can be tough. Find myself more inclined to visit some schools over others. Personal barrier.
Oh my. And messages get garbled like the Telephone game played as kids.
Some suggestions: regular, structured class meetings and lots of non-competitive activities
I think this depends on whether you have built relationships first. It could be invasive to some.
One barrier that applies on many levels: relationships (more precisely the lack of relationships).
And it's best to do it in a way that doesn't point out the student.
I have a "schedule," but some weeks it is a joke. Squeaky wheels!!!
Agreed. I'm still new, so tend to stay away from dropping-in, except on friends ;)
Would this T be open to allowing time for Ss to self-select their reading or perhaps a writing workshop?
Q for the group - how do you balance coaching "light" and "heavy?"
How can the "lack of relationship" be addressed?
If there's a special project (i.e. collecting data) go for it. If not, I follow vampire rule.
Biomedical technology -- not sure if that's a thing for her.
That seems like a good idea
Do you mean a PLC with other coaches? or one where you participate with Ts?
I drop in-love it! Ts would pause at 1st but now it's normal :) leads 2 great convos & ops 4 me 2share + things going on
You've got to invest in relationship - ask questions to find out more about colleagues, admin, students, etc.
would it work to offer available times for teachers to accept? Invitational tone; their goals
For me, some Ts once a week others more than once a week. Depends on cycle and need.
Can school as a whole determine what are key to the vision and what are nice to have?
Neat ideas. I have folks complete a menu to tell me what they prefer.
I think it can be a good way for someone new to get a feel for the blding - as Ts get more comfortable…
Thanks for the conversation. It's family time.
A barrier that came to me earlier today:
Coaching teachers when test scores are high and they don’t feel they need coaching.
I have to go by projects and requests. I do get pretty regular requests.
Ts can tell when you are just throwing "soft balls" at 'em. You have to toss in a hard question once in a while.
Yes - and get to know on a personal level as well.
… w having you around, conversations occur naturally
I send Google calendar invites they have option to decline, ask for better time.
Anoth Great idea-- like this too! Easier to brag to admin when I see what's happening
Key to the coaching relationship! We may reference the framework, but never rate using the rubric.
yes..this is the way I'm headed. Instructional norms bldg wide can be coaching heavy points?
In addition, there is some research that values co-planning over observation.
If your barrier hasn't been address - feel free to mention again.
We are in our first year with coaches and beginning instructional rounds this month. Any suggestions for success?
I go where I am requested. https://t.co/lQZJowlhze
It can be tough. Find myself more inclined to visit some schools over others. Personal barrier.
Also build relationships by me being open & vulnerable myself.
Dropping in can be a waste without focus/purpose.
Question to ask this teacher, " what do you want your students to accoplish that hasn't happened yet?" https://t.co/joiGaUGBxf
A barrier that came to me earlier today:
Coaching teachers when test scores are high and they don’t feel they need coaching.
I spend most of my time co-planning with T or team. Then talk after implemented.
I usually e-mail with three slots I have available. Ask them what's best.
have feedback be data based (% of students on task, etc) and not personal (I liked...)
Yes - the building instructional norms could be "heavy" coaching. I think does that in literacy.
It helps if you were a T on that campus before. https://t.co/GrDgn0KJli
One barrier that applies on many levels: relationships (more precisely the lack of relationships).
Pet peeve of mine. We ALL can grow & improve.
Right! Even after a T grabs a time from me, we have a planning convo & reflect after
. creating urgency in these situations is challenging. Continuous improvement is for all, especially the best
Sometimes the Principal requests and the Ts are reluctant. If I have my choice I like spending more time w/ friendly Ts.
It actually sounds really interesting to me! Wondering why the kids are unmotivated? Did they choose this course?
Every day is different, no schedule except for lunch! https://t.co/LcJNdyTsz5
I have a "schedule," but some weeks it is a joke. Squeaky wheels!!!
very true-it's good to be intentional and have a clear focus.
At times a "mess" is happening if you just observe. Co-planning benefits Ss more.
Sugestion.. make sure your coaches are the people in the building who have been received the most coaching
Another barrier sent to me earlier today:
Teacher resistance/hesitant to coaching - How do you help?
Just joining tonight's convo!- barrier: other duties as assigned-right now-state assessment coordination
Not all. Some were placed there to fill a spot in there schedule. All freshmen.
Yep, and my observing can make the "mess' worse.
Our coach said a barrier is Ts feeling like a coach is more of an evaluator instead of someone there to help
Same here. Was asked to create sched when I strted, but didn't work Ts at 9 sites are free when they're free
It can be a big one. Important for coach role to be explained and accepted.
Luckily I don't have to evaluate. Don't even bring up the evaluation instrument, only talk about it if teachers want
That even sounds fun to read.
... (cont'd) I sure will support anyone who asks to collaborate on them.
Yep. A schedule is good for consistency, but not if you have overwhelming requests at the place you "aren't"
Present the coach as a learning partner rather thaan one who "helps" teachers
a skill that must be honed. Ts find it hard to be open, honest, OK w/struggle w/ evaluators; must be a thought partner
It would be nice if coaches and admin could attend together and work things out!
always tough at 1st. I drink lots of coffee & try 2B visible while Ts are getting ready 4 the day & R fresh
Wow. His work is pretty clear. What do you think the disconnect is?
Goal is to learn alongside rather than "fix." Must live this in every interaction you have each day https://t.co/pUHwtULKE8
Another barrier sent to me earlier today:
Teacher resistance/hesitant to coaching - How do you help?
I'm biased, but it kind of is!
Many Admin just want a quick fix. Pity
Now have a loose schedule so Ts see me--try to be visible at focus sites once/wk even if don't know day/time
I have just two buildings. do my best to balance time, but appreciate flexibility. Won't turn down T request to collab.
I take coaching opportunities as they come-whether light or heavy. Many duties-to coach is welcome! https://t.co/gKbjNIUOmv
Q for the group - how do you balance coaching "light" and "heavy?"
thanks for all the input!!!!!!
I appreciate how everyone is jumping in and helping to solve each others barriers. Keep them coming!
I meet with Ts almost daily. I am can service up to 22 campuses. https://t.co/C5aN6b6kLT
How often do you attempt to meet with Ts? Weekly...more or less?
So helpful! I constantly remind I'm not a math "expert", but a lead lrner...let's learn together!
Q for : Not many in this position for length of time. Anyone coach for more than 3 years?
Hi friends! I'm Amy, from San Diego, jumping in late tonight.
What is district's expectation to coaching?
One barrier we have found is lack of consistency across our schools for Ts and coaches. Trying to streamline now for next year
I was a district support to coaches who had been in the position for 3-5 years. https://t.co/auIx4NvSVz
Q for : Not many in this position for length of time. Anyone coach for more than 3 years?
Not personally, but work closely w/several coaches on yr 4&5. I see pros/cons to both sides...
Welcome, Amy. We are doing a free form chat. People are mentioning barriers and the group is providing ideas.
Thanks! I was getting that idea by scrolling through... like the variety!
Great post and I was just catching up on Supernatural last night on Netflix. Ss are spot on. https://t.co/ZE1n5V6T6L
Yes - districts have renamed in many instances. One I know of calls coaches "Consulting Teachers."
Thanks, Anabel. I'll likely send this to the two T's I spoke with today.
I'm in year 3; every yr I coach, I see more value & improve skill; many encouragers suggest admin for me though
We meet based on Ts need/want, but we try to meet 2-3/week
If you only knew, how OFTEN i get it! Random people all the time
What's kept you in the position? Do you see yourself continuing as IC in future?
debrief, discussion between observations is essential to observer growth! Be sure to hear all, take time to go deep!
Perhaps then need additional perspectives? I gain so much from many in the field.
What are you doing to streamline?
Ts should drive the coaching. What they need and when helps to form partnership.
This week kids & T were looking at me back&forth in library. Finally, I said, Lucifer! They started laughing, nodding
Agreed! Must be ultimately focused on improving student outcomes too
Yes. Point-of-need is what matters and when learning occurs.
Language is our greatest tool!
Hard to imagine only coaching 2yrs...Yr1 coming to close &just figuring it out, building trust w/Ts, building my "business"
We have 15 minutes left. Keep the conversation flowing. I appreciate the willingness to try something new tonight!
Absolutely. Sometime they think I have a wand. I'm not that good!
Or feel free to share resources with each other! Books in your "to do pile."
Laundry is calling! Must wash the soccer uniform for tomorrow's game! Goodnight friends. Hope you all have a great Thursday!
What types of PD do you do for yourselves as coaches. This has been a huge quandary for my team and me as we develop our model
Good night, Michelle. See you soon!
Yes! Absolutely! Thanks for helping me identify why it felt wrong to say "help".
Not sure what room me so long to buy it, but really loving "Book Love@ by
so true! Yr 1 and from then on is about building and maintaining relationships. It's the root of everything we do
You'll have to share thoughts when your done.
I like this approach! It's nice to free flow every now and then
I love coaching coaches! I have several clients I coach virtually! https://t.co/2e4FrEV2B6 https://t.co/MkSkvfjJiz
What types of PD do you do for yourselves as coaches. This has been a huge quandary for my team and me as we develop our model
I'm sure it will be great!
really value "Book Love" by Great read for secondary English teachers!
Thank you. And it was a bit easier to do since I'm flying solo tonight.
Thank you. And it was a bit easier to do since I'm flying solo tonight.
We will definitely take a look at this!
I just noticed that book today. Will be ordering soon. Love that they wrote w/J. Hattie.
Enjoyed chatting with you all tonight at Make sure to follow each other for that great coach support.
Question to ask? " What do your teachers need their coaches to learn.. like what do kids need teachers to learn
I'll get to it eventually. I know it will be worthwhile.
Thank you for sharing! Will definitely check this out and hopefully connect via Twitter
Their work is always spot-on.
Drive, by D. Pink is also a great read!
We don't have that kind of budget here...
Kenny - you are missing out. You have to get the wand.
Does anyone have a charity wand for me???
- Thanks for all the collaboration tonight. I'll post transcripts tomorrow.
- Thanks for all the collaboration tonight. I'll post transcripts tomorrow.
what does your school improvement plan suggest coach and principal need to learn?
. End of year is time to carefully pick battles, otherwise Ts will spend more time disciplining than teaching
Good night all! Great free flow, nice change of pace. So happy to connect with other coaches.
Still not arrived. I think I got a flashdrive recently. That's fancy, right?
Good night . Thanks for another great chat. I'm inspired weekly by all of you!
Good night . Thanks for another great chat. I'm inspired weekly by all of you!
