#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 August 3, 2016
Good evening Let’s start by introducing ourselves and sharing a success story from the week.
My tweets for the next hr are for . I'm excited to keep discussing 's book on coaching teams!
I'm Jessica, elem principal in WI and co-moderator of this chat. My is continuing great 1:1 conversations in the summer
I always forget the hashtag! https://t.co/2h3Q7vUh3x
IATeacherNan starting 2nd yr as lit coach. Success -- started reading "The Art of Coaching Teams" this week.
Hi! Lauren, K-5 Instructional Coach, Indiana. My is completing a great 3 days of school. It's going to be a great year!
I'm Kathy. One of the co-moderators of . - more writing for book w/ & (& some down time)
Good evening ! I'm Amanda DeGroote. Coach from Waukee, Iowa. Successful conversation tonight of scope & sequence for ELA.
Amanda from Lancaster, PA attended in DC this week! Amazing!
Good evening - New to twitter and just dropping in to learn something new. Educator and student
Holly, from Noblesville, Indiana My is my little started Kindergarten.
Rachel from WI. My was attending & presenting conf with a team of admin & psych. Great learning
Welcome to the Twitter PLN...non stop learning!
I start back to work next week. Looking forward to meeting new coaches from our area school!
Andy from wine country in central NY. was great planning conv w principal and ASI this morning
yes, we operate on a balanced calendar, so we welcomed students back Monday.
This is Jerri from south TX. Still catching up on the reading.
Brenna, elem lit coach; Indy. This wk worked w. team of lit coaches on purpose, process, & product (Ch 4) 2 set stage for 16-17!
Georgia from CT getting ready to begin journey as K-2 math coach
And if you always forget to use the hashtag, then I'd suggest going to https://t.co/o4iyUlgxq2
to participate in the chat.
You already are! Anytime you add value to others you are an !
Hello, HS principal from Dayton Tx. Battery on phone is dying, but here to learn and share
Congratulations! That's a big change, but very exciting!
Roy, sci IC from FloydCo, Ga. - a few more T in the county know this new instructional coach's name.
I work in an IB district, too! Awesome connection!
Tonight we are discussing chapters 3, 4 & 5 of The Art of Coaching Teams by . Let’s get started!
Kim from Kalispell, MT. Elementary Instructional Coach. My success is spending time with my boys before summer ends & reading!
Charlie Folsom- Instructional Coach in Waukee, IA. Wrapping up a couple reads and getting into some new ones this week
Q1 Aguilar mentions that self knowledge is the foundation upon which trust is established. Who do you want to be as a leader?
Adrian from Texas- I am starting my first year as a district Reading Coach. haven't read the chapters but here to learn & grow
What did you read this summer?
Hi everyone, I'm Joe, an instructional leader from CT
A1 This question was hard to answer. Finally: I want to be a helpful resource for teachers, and make a difference for Ss.
Welcome and congratulations. Questions are pretty generic. Jump in when you can.
A1: A resource for Ts and one to challenge and open their thinking
A1: First time coach to I want to model growth mindset
A1: I want to be a facilitator of learning in our school with students and teachers in mind.
A1: A leader that demonstrates reflective practice and willingness to outgrow my best teaching,
Kevin, MS IC from Minnesota; highlight has been planning student-centered coaching ideas for Ts this school yr )
A1: available, effective listener, Ss centered, passionate, open, team player, lead learner
A1 I want to be a leader who serves. My passion is improving S learning through discourse & collaboration
A1 Helping Ts move forward while understanding their journey. Never forgetting what it is like to be a new Tchr or trying change
A1: Not an IC to be a leader. An IC to collaborate and serve.
A1: I want to be trusted by Ts and create a culture of collaborative learning by empowering Ts to take the lead.
how do you anticipate this looking?
A1 I want to be their support system and cheerleader when needed.
A1: I hope to be a support and tool to be used as a resource and sounding board for all teachers to help create life long learners
A1: I love this quote-I want to empower others to grow and be a change agent for the heart...our students. https://t.co/sordmpNbtw
A1: Authentic connection builder, one whose actions match words, facilitator who serves needs of team 2 do great things 4 learners
Our district's coaches work with , too! We are empowered by student-centered coaching. https://t.co/DLsJTWragR
Kevin, MS IC from Minnesota; highlight has been planning student-centered coaching ideas for Ts this school yr )
A1 My strengths are encouraging and listening. An area of growth is challenging teachers to grow in their skills
A1: One who leads by example in actions and attitude. Able to distribute leadership to build trust in a team. One who inspires
A1 I want to be the best most empathetic listener possible, A learner who moves my learning and the learning from others forward
I agree with your philosophy!
A1: I want to be as knowledgable in my field as possible so I can effectively support the people I work with
a1 I want to be a leader that is not afraid to "fail" and can be honest enough to show the opportunity to grow
Q2 Why is building trust foundational to transformation?
A1: As a coach I hope to be a resource, a support, a cheerleader, a thinking partner and a facilitator of learning for Ts
A2 cuz if I don't trust you...lalalalala not listening lalalalala
Yes! Sometimes the most respectable thing to say is, "I'm not sure -- let me think abt this some more..."
A2: If there is no trust then no risks can be taken. The fear and unknown will keep some Ts from looking for support
A2: Taking a risk and moving beyond one's comfort zone requires trust
A2: Because learning is all about relationships.
a2: learning is like a trust fall - we need to ensure that we have a solid support so that when we take that risk - we'll be ok.
A2 growth, change, learning, etc. can't take place without a solid foundation of trust.
A2: without trust you get compliance not change.
A2: Trust = risk-taking, being willing to share openly, student centered data and the ability to reflect professionally to grow.
A2: Building trust fosters vulnerability & when we display we are vulnerable powerful partnerships can take place
A2: People will not be willing to trust you if you don't trust them--mutual respect is essential
A1: I want Ss & Ts to know I care.. And we are on this journey together! I'm ready to help from the library!
A2: Trust results in more actionable change occurring. Without it, we cannot move beyond surface level progress.
and compliance will actually limit growth
A2: trust and integrity go together. Trust means a team will do what they intend. Trust allows "the best" vs just good enough
A2 Trust is earned and takes time to build. Can be lost in the matter of minutes.
A2 -- Ts know they have support to try new things from someone who wants them to succeed. They are OUR students, we all help.
A2: Without TRUST, teams are much less likely to be resilient, effective and transformational.
A2 Relationships mean everything and building relationships means proving trustworthiness
A2: Also because "You have to take care of Maslow before you work on Bloom."
Yes! The respect needs to be mutual and authentic
A2: Ts hate wasting time with useless edu-strategies & gimmicks. Trust that the IC is genuine makes us worthy of their time.
Q3 Aguilar mentions many ways to develop trust. What are ways you have developed trust with the teachers and teams you work with?
Coaches are as good as their last promise. Don't make promises that are guarantees. https://t.co/zyjbeuqgAa
A2 Trust is earned and takes time to build. Can be lost in the matter of minutes.
A3: Following through with things, LISTENING, and being present builds trust
Yes! Leaders need to always be prepared and act accordingly
A3: Simple check-ins, just asking, "How is it going?" can go a long way!
A2: TRUST removes FEAR. T will be willing to open up and share - tell you they need help.
Yes, just being present is HUGE. But, it can also be hard to do!
A2: trust = true teaming sweet spot. -- 'vulnerability'. 100% agreement; 200% return on team-building investment.
a3 I take time to know them and recognize their contributions.
A3: I honor my word, listen reflectively, ask for feedback, and search for what i don't have/know. Smiles & little thank you's too
A2: Trust is non-evaluative
A3: When I don't know something I say I don't know. Then I try to connect Ts w/ someone that does or we find the answer together
A3 Transparency is a key to developing trust.
A3: an apology after a misstep last year led to a trust with a team that I did not have prior. Being vulnerable and honest
When we open ourselves and are candid about our own growth, we build trust https://t.co/B1NRfjZxvX
a1 I want to be a leader that is not afraid to "fail" and can be honest enough to show the opportunity to grow
absolutely the to do list is to long and I know that is what I will work on this year https://t.co/uVddVWOV7g
Yes, just being present is HUGE. But, it can also be hard to do!
True at school and in life!
a3: if I'm asking teachers to do something - I better make sure that I can do it as well! Walk the talk!
A3 I do what I say I will do. I listen to Ts. I help them arrive at the answer -- don't just tell them.
A3: To build trust demonstrate that you are still learning and growing, never come across as an expert but a partner
Finding common ground, check-ins, genuine actions, listening, helping, always follow through with promises (don't over promise!)
A3: Learn together. Everyone I meet knows something I don't. Respect their knowledge and experience.
A3: transparency, genuine interest in them, do what I say I will do, lead by example
+1 Never ask a kid to do something you wouldn't do. Never ask an adult to do something without coming alongside
and when they try new things and it doesn't work it is ok https://t.co/zeCHjN13fT
A2 -- Ts know they have support to try new things from someone who wants them to succeed. They are OUR students, we all help.
A3: Build trust by asking for feedback at the end of regular mtgs/learning sessions and referencing it the next time you gather.
A3: Being a good listener, showing confidentiality while being transparent, and showing empathy for differing perspectives.
A3: Ask for and listen to T verbal and written feedback and then act on it
A3: Also get inside classrooms, sit next to kids, be a learn, get in the trenches and help anticipate pitfalls or stumbling blocks
A2: trust can be built by honoring other's strength and giving them an avenue to use them
A2: Without trust, we cannot expect Ts to feel comfortable or safe trying new teaching approaches https://t.co/SBA80nUdjM
Q2 Why is building trust foundational to transformation?
A3: Keeping an open mind and embracing opinions and individual ideas
A3: I listen to them & use their ideas. When I hear a compliment about them, I tell them. I help them.
Yes!!!! We are a team - I need to be a part of that team and "live" what I preach. https://t.co/pBMvTE93tY
+1 Never ask a kid to do something you wouldn't do. Never ask an adult to do something without coming alongside
A3: Being "REAL" - Genuine. Sharing, being honest, and humble.
A3: Be consistent, be authentic; be an encouragement, celebrate successes; look for new ways to keep growing through strengths
This! https://t.co/4eulfdAeNG
A2: TRUST removes FEAR. T will be willing to open up and share - tell you they need help.
A3 Coaching can move others out of comfort zones. A trusting relationship is critical. When we don't trust, there is fear.
Yes! Learning...Observing...Living
absolutely! Google forms are my best friend! Lots of great feedback and Ts see I listened or at least tried to!
Q4 In what ways do you seek feedback from teachers throughout the year? How do you get feedback from those hesitant to share?
A4 conversation for the open Ts, anonymous SurveyMonkey / Google form for the shy Ts
Q4: Aside from directly asking Ts for feedback, Google Forms make it very easy to collect data--even anonymously, if needed
A3: Concern yourself more with listening than speaking. Listening is the residue selflessness.
A4: I like how Augilar phrases her openness to feedback during and the end of meetings.
A4: Varying from convos with Ts to anonymous Google forms to get their feedback.
+1 Listening is the residue of selflessness
A4: Great question and definitely something I need to learn more about
A4: I have a google form I use to end a coaching cycle. Reflection forms I use @ end of year for our teams.
A4: I humble ask. Just like a shared writing activity, Ts take turns writing their feedback anonymously. https://t.co/lhNFUI7r7W
Q4 In what ways do you seek feedback from teachers throughout the year? How do you get feedback from those hesitant to share?
A4: Learning from feeback and illiciting authentic conversations to improve and encourage
A5: Google survey, 1:1 conversations, looking for more
A4: seek feedback from Ts during coaching cycles but also ask for anonymous feedback from all Ts at several points throughout year
A4: a mixture of anonymous and named surveys. The best feedback comes in one on one informal conversations.
Google Forms are very helpful when I consult in different schools. Great feedback https://t.co/uiZr1HI4oo
A4: I have a google form I use to end a coaching cycle. Reflection forms I use @ end of year for our teams.
A4: I create surveys and those that aren't comfortable giving Feedback in person tend to do so via the survey.
A4: ask 4 feedback after meetings/instructional planning through surveys or google docs
a4: start, stop & continue using anonymous surveys. Frequency of Ts working with me is feedback as well.
Me, too ! Definitely need to learn more about feedback -- been too shy to try. https://t.co/klHMW1Bupn
A4: Great question and definitely something I need to learn more about
I use a very similar system as well.
Yes! I think these r a gamechanger & will b part of this yr's agenda. Valuable; quick. Team temp check 2? https://t.co/gKWWADFdC8
A4: I like how Augilar phrases her openness to feedback during and the end of meetings.
A4: And although surveys are great, nothing beats a sit down 1:1 conversation. I try to follow up w/ Ts after I send a survey
You can do it Nan! Baby steps.
A4: Sorry I'm getting here late, but what kind of feedback do you all ask for? This will be my first year as a coach... help!
A4: Q is beyond my infantile IC experiences, just lurking on this question.
Do you use something like survey monkey? https://t.co/3jejEZBw9n
A4: I create surveys and those that aren't comfortable giving Feedback in person tend to do so via the survey.
A4 Building surveys to gather feedback take time. We want honest feedback, just not feedback we want to hear.
A4: Seek feedback by regularly asking, "How has this conversation or our work together supported your work as a teacher?"
I believe that we get so much from authentic conversations. Asking and modeling our own https://t.co/aKiQMFAIvW
A4: Learning from feeback and illiciting authentic conversations to improve and encourage
how did you get feedback from Ss?
Definitely agree with the 1:1 convos - we r starting the year w 1:1 mtgs w all Ts to discuss coaching options:)
A4: That's where relationship building is key. They need to know you care refers to it as the GAC Factor (Give A Crap)
A4: strong form of feedback is my coaching log, who am I meeting with & not, who do I need to cont. to build relationships with?
I ask for a variety feedback on how our coaching cycle went: data collected, goals met, workload, reflective meetings...
Yes! Everyone can grow whether they need 'help' or not (KWR) -- regular reflect of wk keeps path straight https://t.co/QwauqAby2R
A4: Seek feedback by regularly asking, "How has this conversation or our work together supported your work as a teacher?"
Also I get feedback when I walk by their room & see them in action
Q5 What ways have you found successful to celebrate individuals, groups and whole school?
Awesome, that'll build trust & buy-in and lead to amazing work! https://t.co/RAEBu1oLsH
Definitely agree with the 1:1 convos - we r starting the year w 1:1 mtgs w all Ts to discuss coaching options:)
Can anyone direct me to a resource for feedback? https://t.co/LXeJiCIwMb
Q4 In what ways do you seek feedback from teachers throughout the year? How do you get feedback from those hesitant to share?
. Not just a question to ask a question... Designing surveys is an art, not a 5-min pursuit! https://t.co/nlji1xNLYZ
A4 Building surveys to gather feedback take time. We want honest feedback, just not feedback we want to hear.
A5: I'm still a firm believer in hand written notes of celebration! And a little treat!
Great idea.... who do I need to build relationships with - really making that intentional is amazing!
Nothing goes further than a handwritten note, highlighting the risk Ts, groups or Schools took for growth https://t.co/eTR2Cbddeo
Q5 What ways have you found successful to celebrate individuals, groups and whole school?
A5 Donuts. Again. Seriously!
Good point. I can use some of the same ways I got feedback in the classroom in coaching.
I'm so committed to that as a goal this year I just ordered like 200 cards!
A5: Shine the spotlight -- tips, tricks, practices from respected, close sources spread like wild fire!
A5: Sharing Ss messages about their celebrations of the year to Ts, written notes to Ts, emails, etc.
A5: Staff shout out board/staff shout outs at mtg; staff can distribute cards to acknowledge individual colleagues
a5: personal handwritten notes, bulletin board with pics of Ts entitled "caught in action!"
A5: I highlight multiple teaching practices in a webinar type format after visiting a school
A5: We share celebrations at the beginning of staff meetings, I try to bring something I've seen in classrooms/done w/ a teacher
A5: Maybe starting each session with giving a positive to celebrate. or have a brag activity
A5: Offering to give the teacher a five minute break?
When you do that does everyone share or just those that volunteer to?
Yes, handwritten notes are important. I like the bulletin board idea, too. https://t.co/P1iEC9Kko1
a5: personal handwritten notes, bulletin board with pics of Ts entitled "caught in action!"
Handwritten notes capture sentiment of msg -- I keep all mine! Do you?
A5 In one school they started each PD session with celebrations. Teachers asked to include appreciations! POWERFUL!
Handwritten notes are so amazing aren't they, I love seeing T's hang mine up on their desks! https://t.co/D2MWhVZi0M
a5: personal handwritten notes, bulletin board with pics of Ts entitled "caught in action!"
A5: written notes and emails to individuals. Having teams share a success of another member. School videos thanking each other
A5 todo buy more nice notecards.
A5: Start the year w pre-addressed envelopes to ur staff... watch for positives to send them a note and the stack will disappear!
Kudos box Ts can write on slips of paper to be pulled at faculty mtg. Kudos to... And they get a kudos bar!
That's a great proactive tip!
I like this idea -- it would keep me on task for handing out "positives" ! https://t.co/foOo94U775
A5: Start the year w pre-addressed envelopes to ur staff... watch for positives to send them a note and the stack will disappear!
A5 Find ways to honor teachers often. They need to know that you understand their daily role in the classroom.
Um, "Dollar Spot" (now $3 Spot) at Target has great card packs; Michael's always has fun cards, too.
A5: Encourage them to share what they know with others. It's Not About You, it's about their growth. https://t.co/CcbJfc51aB
what a great reflection tool as well! I have a teacher highlight corner in my monthly that is similar.
+1 nice and affordable. Ty!
I also LOVE Baudville for fun/cutesy cards!
My principal starts mtgs by allowing staff to give out Awesome Awards (u get free jeans day 2!) https://t.co/abC84AKsTe
A5 In one school they started each PD session with celebrations. Teachers asked to include appreciations! POWERFUL!
A5 This idea may take more than 1 tweet. shared it at a workshop. It was about what a teacher did but could as to
Agreed, we edify or build each other up by highlighting the transformative actions Ts take for Ss. https://t.co/EkrmZF1QTt
A5 Find ways to honor teachers often. They need to know that you understand their daily role in the classroom.
Part 2 - On Friday write down the names of each teacher in your school. Look at list. Did you forget anyone? Who is at end? ....
Part 3 - Ts at the end or forgot are the ones you make a point of reaching out to the next week. Build relationship
Thought-provoking. -- back to the feedback from the coaching notes. Blanks? First next week...
Q6 What ways have you found successful to show appreciation for individuals and groups to create a positive culture?
It keeps me accountable:) My gd intentions don't go to waste this way... :)
I like that strategy! Great idea and easy to implement to keep yourself focused on relationships with all!
Find out when/where they eat lunch and just "happen" to be there:)
Powerful. What would happen if we all did this? 💪 https://t.co/fXNUPFm0qe
Part 3 - Ts at the end or forgot are the ones you make a point of reaching out to the next week. Build relationship
A6: Treats for positive or stressful days. Sometimes a simple thank you or way to go can be just as effective
wow! What a powerful perspective that could provide.Shows insight into the impact of relationship building for sure.
A6: saying thank you and glad you're here!
Hate to bail early. My Eastern-Time-Zone eyelids are getting heavy. Thanks for the good ideas and thought-provoking chat.
Glad you could join us tonight.
A6: Bldg promotes a pos. culture by having a sharing joy page w/ inspirational videos, quotes, readings. Always try to joy
A6: Celebrating the moments of empathy. Ts, Ss & staff go out of their way for others nurture that! https://t.co/5j66Cm6k42
Q6 What ways have you found successful to show appreciation for individuals and groups to create a positive culture?
Can you share more about this?
We are considering moving it up an hour earlier starting in September.
A6: random acts of kindness or appreciation to others; it takes a village and everyone contributes to a culture's success
#1 from the eastern time zone. So sleepy...
I agree. One of the best compliments I ever got as a coach was "You haven't lost the teacher in you."
Q7 How do you review/revisit norms throughout the year? How do you review at the start of the school year?
A6: Make routine special; consider details: treats; napkins; inviting work tools. Build on strengths, similarities. Authenticity.
A6: Cover recess or lunchroom duty or let a grade level team have lunch off campus and cover for them (little freedoms!)
A7: Sitting up norms at the beginning and making a copy for everyone's binder
A7 flw-up question: What norms do you find most valuable?
A6: A pad of BIG post-its and a new Sharpie https://t.co/LHmJzEpckK
Q6 What ways have you found successful to show appreciation for individuals and groups to create a positive culture?
A7: When the team changes, i think it is important to agree on new norms. Reviewing norms often is critical to trust & output
A7: Good question -- two grade level teams will have new members. Do they keep same norms? https://t.co/amFuay39Nk
Q7 How do you review/revisit norms throughout the year? How do you review at the start of the school year?
A7: At the beginning of the year setting norms for each PLC. Also, roles w/in the group. Periodic checking with those during year
+1 assigning roles! Otherwise easy to spin wheels and miss the point
A7 A key to norms is what to do when norms are broken. Do you have agreed upon ways to mention or do they just slide under table.
A7: Occasionally pick one norm at the beg of mtg to have members focus on; revisit at the end of mtg. "How did we do with...?"
I liked in the book the idea of both keeping the same role or rotating them.
May be a good idea to revisit norms, develop new to build trust within the group so that new members have a voice.
A7: PLCs review &modify norms from previous year at BOY; norms posted/revisited at start of each PLC mtg.throughout year=ownership
I liked Aguilar's suggestion of this. Seems easy to do!
That's a great idea, esp if done regularly.
Yes! I liked 's idea to have the norms at the top of the agenda, too. Hi, Lauren! :)
A7 Norms are teacher-driven & reflected on frequently. What is working, isn't? Rotate responsibility to build leadership & voice
Q8 What ways have you found helpful to address norms that keep being broken (therefore breaking teams’ trust)?
YES! & ask at the beginning of the meeting, "Which norm may be a struggle for you today?" https://t.co/8dmieSH3fy
A7: Occasionally pick one norm at the beg of mtg to have members focus on; revisit at the end of mtg. "How did we do with...?"
All these pictures of delicious food are making me hungry! 😂
A8 Private conversation. Public conflict never works with Ss. Disastrous w Ts.
I'm still amazed at how much teachers appreciate food.
Let me know if you do change the time!
Was wondering the same thing... https://t.co/3fLkeCmIZo
A7 A key to norms is what to do when norms are broken. Do you have agreed upon ways to mention or do they just slide under table.
Students do as well. Food for the soul and brain
Q9: What take-aways do you have from tonight’s chat? Jessica tweeted
A8 Leverage our own humor or a Ts humor or outgoing personality to remind us of norm. Talk about the norm https://t.co/T6XvMDL8xJ
Q8 What ways have you found helpful to address norms that keep being broken (therefore breaking teams’ trust)?
A9 buy Target stock. then buy thank you notes
A8 One thing we've done in teams I've been involved with is have roles - time keeper, note taker & processes observer.
A9: Too many to count but definitely feed the Ts and set up my norms
A9 Building trust and relationships is the framework for coaching. Honest conversations are bridges https://t.co/TdQqMQVQIY
Q9: What take-aways do you have from tonight’s chat? Jessica tweeted
A9: Look for those weaker rltnships and BUILD them up!!
A9: build in my planner reminders to solicit for feedback & share celebrations more often!
me too! She provides some great insights to consider with PLCs. Hi to you as well, Brenna! :)
A9: the power in the little things now can make for big changes & growth later on.
Process observer reports out at the end about how norms were kept or areas we as a team slipped a little. https://t.co/hbYUK1shU8
A8 One thing we've done in teams I've been involved with is have roles - time keeper, note taker & processes observer.
The companion books Crucial Conversations and Crucial Accountability have great language for this.
A9: Look 4 positives & way to share them with Ts! Build relationships. 1:1 at beginning of the year with each teacher.
Q10 was unable to make it to the chat tonight. If you have questions, she’s a tweet away.
A9: Do more research on norms for teams: how to handle missteps and setting trustful norms.
