#TOSAChat is a chat on Twitter every Monday night at 8pm PST for TOSAs (teachers on special assignment), including all edtech and instructional coaches.
Hi #TOSAchat I don't want this to be me at the end of the year, can't wait to see everyone's answers and dig deeper into Mentoring.
Oh, and I'm Kim, MS STEM teacher in Fresno
👋🏾 @TosaChat My name is Nyree and I am an Edtech coach in SoCal. Can I still play if I get Star Trek and Star Wars confused 🤷🏾♀️🙈 #TOSAchat#whatsajedi
A1: 25 years ago, we didn't have a mentor program...I had no support other than my team. After serving as a mentor recently, it is so valuable to have a trusted resource where you are safe to ask anything! #TOSAchat
Marla here. Innovation Specialist on a TK-5th campus-I teach all 650 kids each week. Not so current on my Jedi Masters. I've only seen the originals and that was a while ago. #tosachat
A1: I think we all need someone to help us guide in our reflection to help us see all sides of an issue. Our job as mentors is to support the mentees. #TOSAchat
A1 New teachers need support. That being said many of the programs I have seen in action just require a lot of paperwork and don't offer nearly as much support as they should.
My program was amazing I was lucky to have @NewTeacherCtr and @MiakjeK as my mentor. #tosachat
A1: most important is to make then feel like they are not alone and are not the first ones to have to deal with these situations, be the shoulder to cry on and the ear to listen #tosachat
A1: Being in the classroom is hard to explain to someone outside of the profession. It is always evolving and almost feels like it is impossible to master. Mentors can be that bridge that helps put us on the right path. #TOSAchat
A1cont: It’s also about being connected and working smarter when we work together. We’re not meant to be islands in education. #BetterTogether#tosachat
A1: because 31 years ago I had no one, no one spoke to me, no one supported me. Year two there was another new teacher and I spoke up “Don’t treat her like you treated me my first year.” I haven’t stopped speaking up since! #TOSAchat
A1 Teaching is never what you dreamed it would be when you get started. There are a lot of stumbles and foibles that happen along the way. New Ts need someone to pick them up, dust them off, and send them back in the game when things are tough. #tosachat
A1 Our district just retired over 100 people. All these new Ts need supports when their sites or full steam ahead no can slow down to teach them right the FIRST time. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
A1: it’s great to have mentoring programs to support, guide & share experiences & strategies! Most successful org have these programs to show new employees they are valued👍🏼✅💯#tosachat
A1: Mentoring provides a safe place to ask all those questions you wouldn't ask your admin, a friend, a shoulder some to share your successes and fails. Mentors can make sure you know all the little things-like the fav drink of the office manager(she runs the school)! #tosachat
A1 love this African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." Mentors provide a safe space for new Ts to learn from experience, try new things, and get feedback to help them grow and go far! #TOSAchat
A1: Teacher training seems so varied from credential to credential, campus to campus and decade to decade, and yet here we all are basically in the same system. IMO mentors are essential. #tosachat
A1. Its all about supporting one another! Teaching can be lonely and difficult so we need to build capacity and support one another. Mentoring programs will hopefully provide support for new teachers and help build connections with other educators. #TOSAchat
LOVE. I was fortunate in my first job 22 years ago. There wasn’t a program, but I was lucky to work with some amazing educators who took me in and taught me a TON. When I moved to CA, I “didn’t qualify” for BTSA b/c I had taught 2 years. I needed someone though #tosachat
A2: We leveraged the power of Google. All forms and evidence were put in Google. Hangout if a face-to-face was not feasible. I had a very flexible schedule as a TOSA. #tosachat
A2: not my regular role as a TOSA but calendaring time is important. It's harder to fly by the seat of your pants. I know many use a scheduling tool to help facilitate.
#tosachat
A2 there are certain things that can be done with the group and some things that need to be individualized. Knowing the difference and making a plan of action is 🔑 #tosachat
A2: setting aside time for each of them and sometimes meeting together, working through things together can also give them a chance to bond, and we are always #BetterTogether#tosachat
A2: This year I am heavily focusing on small groups. Reaching out to departments heads and building more focused PD to fit their needs. I will also be simultaneously trying https://t.co/BPLhlZOtlG for more individual conversations. #TOSAchat
i opted out of btsa bc it was less work. But mostly because i had an amazing grade level lead who supported me with anything and everything. Now i mentor her w/ tech. I'll be bummed when she retires at the end of the year. :( #TOSAchat
A2: multiple mentees is the fun challenge! Individualize learning. Our Induction program requires a log, to document the conversation & list next steps to remind myself & the T what we will do. Google Calendar helps too. Reviewing my notes before my meetings. #TOSAchat
New Ts need to feel free to make mistakes and learn in a safe environment. Knowing they have people that WANT to see them get better. @TosaChat#TOSAchat
In reply to
@lisapedia247, @kab_graham, @TosaChat, @TosaChat
A2: Careful scheduling is critical. There will always be people who need your support. Prioritizing the time and connections make all the difference. When you’re in mtgs, remember the person in front of you is the only person who matters. #tosachat
A2: i'll be mentoring each of my Ed Tech Leads individually. that's 6 total. All have different strengths so it will be a lot of work with so much reward potential! I'm excited by the possibilities! #TOSAchat
Universities can teach how to design lesson plans, but not how to connect with kids. They can explain the rules of classroom mgt, but they can’t provide the patience and compassion that all teachers need. Teachers don’t just need the right skills; they need the right heart.
it was prior to it be required. it was btsa or two classes. i'd done 1/2 classes. So taking 1 class over two years of work seemed like a no-brainer. And if I called her my work mom, i think she'd kill me! More like a work big sister. :) #TOSAchat
A2 purposefully checking in with folks 1:1, small group, teams, etc. From texts, to tweets, to calls, to face to face... making time for others and meeting them where they are at. #tosachat
I also was lucky to find a colleague who mentored me in so many ways and she became a very close friend. It’s so crucial that veteran teachers forge these kinds of relationships with newer teachers even without formal programs. #tosachat@AngeliqueColoma
In reply to
@lisapedia247, @kmartintahoe, @kab_graham, @AngeliqueColoma
A2: I use https://t.co/mP7izHFFkq so I can be available for my mentees to book me anytime. I did new teacher trainings so I made connections in person. Now I touch base when I am at sites to check in. I try to be present and available. #TOSAchat
i've used it for the last two years but it's 'off' for the summer. I need to get it back open again. It's amazing! Even my lowest tech teachers can handle it. #TOSAchat
In reply to
@EdTechEddie, @iluvteaching72, @TosaChat
A3: I find that a balance of their goals, the admin’s goals for them, and your goals for the time together is important. When Ts identify their goals, there’s ownership. Share their passion. #tosachat
A3: Induction guides those timetables. Need to learn how to set reasonable, data driven goals, that are actually measuring what you are intending. I like to start small, like a standard, rather than a whole unit of study #TOSAchat
A3: I want to set some short term goals and then also a long term goal. I know BTSA has some of that, but I feel like I wan to focus less on academic goals and more personal goals with my mentees #tosachat
My goal for all mentees is to make it sad for them to leave the program😥#tosachat we’re having a BTSA reunion this year as an all day PD for former graduates that are interested. “They asked for it” 🤪👍🏼✅😇🎉
In reply to
@kmartintahoe, @peerlessgreen, @kab_graham
A3: ask them! provide a pathway for them to set and work towards goals by having that conversation! My TOSA role wasn't admin so I didn't evaluate, but talk about goal setting and make a feedback loop to track progress! I was @cogswell_ben inspired of course... #TOSAchat
A2 I just go where people need me. If they need me to coteach a lesson I go. If they need me to take a kiddo who needs a break I go. If they need me to cover their class so that they can use the bathroom I go. After needs are met THEN we can talk abt coaching. #tosachat
I like that approach. Feels like if you can impact their personal goals and make that connection with them, your relastionship will last much longer. #TOSAchat
I'm using a gmail extension: Meeting scheduler, because we were told you can book me is paid this year #TOSAchat, so we set it all up and discovered that wasn't really true.
A3 @artofcoaching1 (Elena Aguilar) is a great tool for coaches and mentors. I wish I had this book sooner. Induction programs helps with this process but my role as IC to mentor new teachers is less scripted #tosachat
A3: This has been hard for me. We do not really have set goals that each teacher must meet across our district, at least nothing standardized. I use our gamified PD platform to start the conversation about what level they are at and what is possible by playing the game. #TOSAchat
A3 This year my district is using @AlludoPlay for PD and it has goals embedded in it and timelines. We seem to live in a quarter dominated life. What do you think @lisapedia247 ? #TOSAchat@TosaChat
A3: I survey my Ts and Admin. I try to help align the goals of teachers and site admin. We talk about being on a continuum and discuss short term and long term goals in order to progress on that continuum. Try to focus on the growth mindset. #TOSAchat
Many of our paras are credentialing. So I get a lot of strident teachers placed in my room. I’ve never had two at once. Then there’s tech support and general handy man stuff. I hung a TV today. It’s a team vision though. We keep things going! #tosachat
A3) Goals are an ever changing bar that is constantly moving with growth. For my Tech Padawans I give each of them as much as they can handle and cheer them on and have them to continue to share and pass it on. Failure is embraced as the First Attempt In Learning! #TOSAchat
A4 First and foremost is relationships. ALWAYS. You have to listen. Not to be their parent or bff, but their sounding board. Ask questions...not providing answers or advice. Be there for them. #TOSAchat
A3:
-We pick 1-2 main goals they would like to accomplish.
-Pay attention to the systems we design & how they impact Ss learning
-Fail forward together
-Reflect often
-Revise & take the next step.
Build relationships w/T & their learning goals. #tosachat
A4: Trust isn’t built by offering help. Trust is built by asking for help. Start by asking others to help you. Show that you’re in the position to always learn. Model that mindset. #tosachat
A4: To build trust I try to listen. This may seem simple but pretty hard to do if you are doing it correctly. When teachers speak I often times write what they say so that I can give meaningful follow up. #TOSAchat
I have a google form for myself so I can jot down quick notes. On a spreadsheet I have key words and teacher names and schools and there are formulas in place so I can see what I really spent the most time on. It’s pretty wicked. I learned it all from @John_Eick#tosachat
A4 some of that is coach demeanor. Tone is so important in building relationships. No one wants to feel talked down to or like they are a bother. And making sure that you care about them as a person, not just a T. Make time to get to know them on a level beyond school #tosachat
A4 I tried to remind Ts that my job as a TOSA was TEACHER on special assignment. I was there as a layer of support for THEM, someone they could take risks with & feel safe to doing so. I constantly told folks that they could ask anything & not be embarrassed to do so. #TOSAchat
I have a google form for myself so I can jot down quick notes. On a spreadsheet I have key words and teacher names and schools and there are formulas in place so I can see what I really spent the most time on. It’s pretty wicked. I learned it all from @John_Eick#tosachat
In reply to
@kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @John_Eick
A4: Be their biggest cheerleader. Focus on building trust in your relationship. Be there for them, offer support inside and outside the classroom. Be honest and let them know we all can learn from each other. Express you are both a team! #tosachat
Love this idea, too. Like the old saying, “you can’t manage what you don’t measure.” #tosachat
I do a mix of analog & Sheets to track interactions, lessons, and follow-ups.
In reply to
@kmartintahoe, @iluvteaching72, @peerlessgreen
A4. I think it's important 2remember the important things like their learning style, love/appreciation language, hot beverage preference &communication preferences. In addition it's important to earn, it through actions &words. Don't just expect it. #TOSAchat
My goal for all mentees is to make it sad for them to leave the program😥#tosachat we’re having a BTSA reunion this year as an all day PD for former graduates that are interested. “They asked for it” 🤪👍🏼✅😇🎉
In reply to
@kmartintahoe, @peerlessgreen, @kab_graham
A4: Listen. Be present. Be vulnerable...don't be too proud to laugh at the silly things that happen. Listen some more. Guide and support. Be present. #tosachat
A5 connect your mentee w/others that have similar ideas, goals or stuggles. Advocating for them & continuing to grow their network ensures they're surrounded by others that will build them up. #tosachat
A5: You have to monitor what you say and the tone you use. I know I can go down that sarcastic road all too easily. "Check yourself before you wreck yourself". Planning talks and reflective talks from Collaborative Coaching would also be helpful #TOSAchat
i started sending out starbucks gift cards via email as thank yous. it was always unexpected but so appreciated. I can't wait to send more this year! #TOSAchat
A5 we have all been to the Dark Side. By sharing our experiences there and what we learned from them, we can help our new Ts know how to handle the rough stuffs #tosachat
A5: providing that listening ear and a sounding board for ideas and frustrations. I may look like I have my stuff together but most of the time I don't, showing that vulnerability and making sure they know they are not alone #tosachat
isn't if funny? today i felt like the staff devleopment day was totally dialed in and ready to go. but all my ed tech programs went sideways. if it's not one thing it's another. :) #TOSAchat
A5: Transparency, humility, and taking care of your own motives/motivation. Two pitfalls I’ve seen: Saying I don’t know backfiring on the mentor and going old school and grinding. Gotta keep the ❤️ #tosachat
A6 be a champion for them, encourage them, support them, laugh w them, cry w them, help them see their potential... when the dark side calls, walk beside them and remain... "if you want to go far, go together..." #TOSAchat
Yes and it feels like tech should be part of every conversation at least just enogh to get out of the way. If it is not integrated it becomes "another thing" that we have to do. Tech is best when it compliments what Ts are already doing. #TOSAchat
There will be plenty of time to be a TOSA. It's important for us all to remember to be ourselves/human. Sometimes that's easy to forget in our line of work. #TOSAchat
A5: Help build connections with other educators that can lift each other up. Be honest and vulnerable yourself with your mentee. Let them know we all are human and provide advice and support for them to stay on course. #tosachat
A4) Authentic timely feedback LOTS OF CHEER-LEADING! You know how you have those nice thoughts of others in your head... " I often send those out in a quick email and don't just think them to myself #TOSAchat
Wait…you mean I should eliminate that whole “Measure three times/cut once/return to Home Depot” strategy from my toolkit? 😉
Totally agree, Ann! And, I’m still a big fan of Diamond Time, btw.
#tosachat
YES. There’s no room for “tech for tech’s sake.” If we don’t have a reason WHY, and if it doesn’t make sense, it doesn’t belong. We all have to understand the why (and not because my admin told me to/ expects me to use it). #tosachat
You grow when you are uncomfortable. Many Ts RARELY want to be uncomfortable. Having someone that makes you feel safe while grow is a gift. Thanks @EdTechAri for being there for me in the beginning. #TOSAchat
I buy blank card sets and leave them in my car door. That way, I can grab one quickly while visiting sites. I've aslo thought about making my own post-it notes. #tosachat
I'm a BIG FAN of YOU @tosanotes! Don't cut anything from your toolkit... you never know when you're going to need to measure 3x, cut 1x then return... I'm so nice I do things thrice! :O) #tosachat
A6 BE PATIENT with yourself. This is what I have to learn myself. I am 6months in and i have to remember to allow myself grace to learn and grow. #TOSAchat@TosaChat
Just saw #TOSAchat is happening 🤩 and then saw this! 😱
🤗 So nice and totally rad Kelly! I love a surprise, especially a @Starbucks ☕️ surprise - I can image how excited your crew must be when 💌 discovering your gift! 🎁
A6 - relationships first, everything else second. (I stole that from @TopDogTeaching ) Although it can be hard to do when you have induction requirements breathing down your neck. #tosachat
Take it slow with your mentee and reach out for help too. Mentoring is another level of reflection, ask what has worked and adapt that to your style. #TOSAchat is here for all.
I've also given everyday gifts like whiteboard board markers and erasers. I just add a cute ribbon and tag. It doesn't have to be expensive...people just love being appreciated. #tosachat
In reply to
@EdTechEddie, @kmartintahoe, @TechWarriorKES
Just saw #TOSAchat is happening 🤩 and then saw this! 😱
🤗 So nice and totally rad Kelly! I love a surprise, especially a @Starbucks ☕️ surprise - I can imagine how excited your crew must be when 💌 discovering your gift! 🎁
