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.
Hello my name is Abby Flatt. I am currently a college student in an instructional technology course at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. #educoach
Erin Lane, instructional coach in Overland Park KS. My success this week is collaborating with our social worker and speech path for some lessons for 5th grade Ss #educoach
I'm Kathy - co-moderator of tonight's #educoach chat. I will be joined by @IAteacherNan. A success this week is preparing for some upcoming #CoachApproach training in Crystal Lake, IL on Dec. 11 with @ILASCD
I am an instructional coach in our K-2 elementary in Southwest Iowa. A success this week -- I'm partnering with 5 different teachers to provide interventions with students. #educoach
Hi, all! Tyler from the Kansas City metro. I'm a K12 Curriculum Coordinator. We had secondary department meetings today after TWO snow days, and they went great! That's my win of the week. #educoach
A1: It can be very challenging to keep students interested during the holiday seasons, because they have so much excitement on their minds! As a student myself, I understand this issue from both viewpoints. #educoach
A1: schedules are all over the place, breaks are on the horizon and with the end of the semester coming as well the stress of grades/grading is there as well #educoach
A1: for elementary it’s preparing for holiday program and having a shortened work month so time becomes a factor. Also have foster students so the holiday is hard for them and teachers can feel the impact. #educoach
A1: December is such a tough month. Kids are, as I say, "feeling a lot of feelings" in December. So are teachers. Everyone needs help to stay positive and motivated to end the semester strong! #educoach
A1: Trying to keep the students on track with assignments. It is a challenge to keep them focused with the holidays and sporting events. #educoach#edfb4338
A1- December is a month full of changes.. I would say embracing the madness while still working theough the curriculum that needs to be taught was always difficult during this time #sd113A#rvican#educoach
Ts in our building have special holiday activities that the Ss enjoy. But may feel pressured to be accountable for pacing guides and lessons in curriculum. Balance of learning vs fun. #educoach
A1: It's challenging, too, personally. I try to remember that our Ts are not JUST teachers, but also wives, husbands, fathers, mothers, grandpa, etc... the holiday season is a joy but also a stress for ALL families, not just kids. Ts, too. #educoach
A1 I remember the challenges of ‘end-of-term-itis’ - that point where engagement drops and behaviour becomes more challenging as both students and teachers see the festive period on the horizon. Here it’s end of school year + summer vacation so it’s amplified! #educoach
A2: We are human, too! We also need help to stay motivated and engaged. This is why it's so important to be connected to positive peers and mentors. Even the cheerleaders need a pep talk once in a while! #educoach
@IAteacherNan Just wanted you to know my wifi is really slow tonight. Can you jump in with the questions for now. I'll see if it behaves better later in the chat. #educoach
A1 But, I do think some of that is our fault in how we use language. We continually refer to a "break" as a good thing. For some of us, it is. For others, it's a disruption in a routine that otherwise creates solace and expectations #educoachhttps://t.co/NhC5econwU
A2 I think coaches will see a drop in ‘customers’ and less energy at this time of year. Important to listen with empathy & find small ways to support & maintain momentum. Here in Oz it’s about celebrating goals achieved & looking ahead to next year. #educoach
A2: we can often times be “fixers” so to see our Ts stressed and not be able to help “fix” anything for them can be hard! It’s also hard to stay motivated and enthusiastic bc most Ts aren’t wanting to engage in heavy coaching during Dec #educoach
A2- I have found it is a hard month to really connectwith teachers. Between parties and activities there are so many other things the teachers are focused on. #educoach
A2 Let’s not forget that coaches are human too and will be influenced by holiday hysteria & lack of energy too. They need support & coaching too. What will you do to take stock and recharge at this time of year? #educoach
A3: It's ALWAYS effective to show our Ts that we're willing to get right in the trenches with them, no matter the time of year, but especially in December. Sometimes they just need an extra hand or set of eyes in the room. #educoach
A3: I also think we can help keep Ts focused on keeping the main thing the main thing--help steer focus and energy back to teaching and learning when the "December Distractions" start rolling in. We're still at school--and school is a place of business! #educoach
It's hard to connect with T's and get quality time most any time of year -- but definitely more challenging right now! Our Ts are always very busy -- so much to do.
#educoach
A2- I have found it is a hard month to really connectwith teachers. Between parties and activities there are so many other things the teachers are focused on. #educoach
Q3: I think we can continue to be a support for whatever they may need. It’s a good time to continue to build relationships with the holiday season. #educoach
A3: Support, Support, Support and save energy for January when everyonee has recommitted to resolutions. Maybe make it fun and create some sort of challenge with small goodies. #educoach
That’s an important perspective, thanks. I wonder if this is especially so for the students? Sadly, some may feel anxious about these ‘breaks’ ☹️ #educoach
A2 Let’s not forget that coaches are human too and will be influenced by holiday hysteria & lack of energy too. They need support & coaching too. What will you do to take stock and recharge at this time of year? #educoach
Q3: I think we can continue to be a support for whatever they may need. It’s a good time to continue to build relationships with the holiday season. #educoach
A3: Let everyone catch their breath! Today I took two classes of awesome 5th graders to multi- purpose room to free read and/or free write! Ts time to finish report cards. Had a moment to see ALL kiddos’ joy! #educoach
It’s also important to remember that being an in-school coach can be lonely. It’s important to build supports where they too experience the positive benefits of coaching and reflective practice - both in terms of their development and wellbeing. #educoach
A2 - Additionally, our December professional learning session always had an important focus ~ yummy treats, mingling and some type of fun read aloud. #educoach
A4: December is when we start cashing in on the deposits we made with people earlier in the year. In December, we might need to have a harder conversation or show some tough love. Much approach if you've done the hard work of relationships beforehand. #educoach
A3 taking time to review middle of the year benchmark data and focusing on the gains. Allows for celebrating the success of the first semester. #educoach
A4 December is a great time for coaches to meet with their own coach or trusted colleague to set reflect and set goals for the remainder of the year. #educoach
I agree, Nancy. In our complex school contexts our goals and our actions towards them can shift over time. It’s an iterative process. A colleague of mine talks about ‘course correcting’ along the journey. @jpgci#educoach
A3- modeling and coteaching allow for a great change of pace for the students and teacher while at the same time allowing for conversations between coach and teacher #sd113A#rvican#educoach
A4: It's also a good time to meet with building admin to re-evaluate and re-connect. What's working with our Ts? Are the second semester goals the same as first? What planning do we need to make for January? #educoach
A3 & A4 perspective! It’s important to have perspective and plan accordingly. Three weeks can be a long time with routines, structure and plans. #educoach
A4: December is a great time for coaches to begin to plan what they are going to do next year. They can get ideas from fellow teachers and coaches to support them. #educoach
A4: I think Dec is a great time to do some more investing and relationship building, but also build in time with our own job a-likes to continue to build our craft and grow as coaches #educoach
I also think it’s important to remember that many students thrive in the predictability of their school day and school life. Holidays can be isolating and scary for many students. #educoach
Agree. I knew a coach that offered to read to classes in December to give the Ts a little break to catch up on something. The coach put a sign up in the lounge. Ts were very appreciative. That little act helped build relationships. #educoach
A5: Teachers can incorporate holidays themes into their lesson plans. This could be something like holiday themed worksheets and educational activities. #educoach
A4 I wonder if this is a good time of year for mid-cycle feedback from coachees (in US) or end of cycle feedback ( in AUS) 😊
As your coach, what’s been helpful to you? How have I helped? What have you noticed? What do you need more of from me? #educoach
I have to shoutout 🗣@loudenclearblog for all of this. She took my idea and helped me see an actual lesson! So grateful! Our #educoach at Hoover is awesome!
Q5: I think you can still have fun and continued to be grounded in learning by keeping your eye on the learning goals. Also keeping holiday celebration and learning in balance. #educoach
A5 When I was in the classroom we often did service projects in December. For one we put on our own bake sale, raised $ for angel tree gifts. Incorporated math, literacy, compassion, empathy, etc... #educoach
I was just thinking along these lines . . .service projects with academic tie-ins. Sounds like a great recipe for this time of year -- or any time, really. #educoach
A5 When I was in the classroom we often did service projects in December. For one we put on our own bake sale, raised $ for angel tree gifts. Incorporated math, literacy, compassion, empathy, etc... #educoach
A6 We have to make time. One way we made time was with buddy classes. Example: 5th and 1st were reading buddy classes. 5th grade teachers would take the classes and coach would work with 1st grade. Then switched the next week. #educoach
A6 Is it about privileging this time and counting it as PD? It’s good modelling and an investment (in self). So, what do you need to stop doing or do differently to make space for reflection? What support or resource is needed to make sure it happens? #educoach
A6: rather than introduce a new concept or new focus area, provide Ts time and quiet to reflect. A check list- what’s working? What needs work? Get them around the table! #educoach
This is such a wonderful learning opportunity for coaches- and one that builds trust and authenticity to the coaching relationship. The best coaches are, themselves, coachable and vulnerable to honest feedback. #educoach
A6- I think dueing this time we have to build reflection into our PLC/ staff meeting conversations. Intentionally scheduling time will make everyone actually do it! #sd113A#rvican#educoach
Q6: This is the time I built my midyear survey for feedback of my impact with teachers and school site. We can help Teachers by encouraging giving their students a survey mid year instead of waiting till the end. We can make changes now. End of the year it’s too late. #educoach
A6: I also think that it is important to remind Ts and Ss that the focus can be about the process but just the product and reflection allows us to honor that process #educoach
A7: To help keep the students engaged Ts can keep the energy high and the learning growing. We need to model the energy. If we stray too far from the academics sometimes it causes chaos. Again, I think it’s about balance. #educoach
A7: I hear our teachers reminding Ss to read a book or two during the break. Always a good reminder. And the secretary on Friday at close of day reminds Ss to get outside and play and get along with siblings. #educoach
A7: To help keep the students engaged Ts can keep the energy high and the learning growing. We need to model the energy. If we stray too far from the academics sometimes it causes chaos. Again, I think it’s about balance. #educoach
A7: Share our own plans...books you plan to read, things you are working... I share my struggles w/ assignments and other projects w/ kiddos. #educoach
A7: Encourage them to READ, READ, READ! Don’t set strict parameters. Choice is key! Maybe ask older students to post Instagram pics of the books they’re reading or record brief book talks. #educoach
I share my office space with the TAG teacher in our K-2 bldg. I love hearing her talk to the Ss about her weekend and her family. And she asks them about theirs. #educoach
A7: Share our own plans...books you plan to read, things you are working... I share my struggles w/ assignments and other projects w/ kiddos. #educoach
A8: Set “New Year’s Resolution” coaching goals. Reflect on the first half or the year and make an oath to improve in a certain area or try something new. Ask your teachers to do the same. Follow up to offer support and ensure they stick with it!. #educoach
A7 I don't think we need to direct students learning during the winter break besides encouraging daily reading. Learning will happen through the experiences they have even if it's not academic. #educoach
A9 I'm working on monitoring my SMALL WINS and gratitude. I have a journal I write in each AM. My categories are Top 3 priorities, Gratitude and Small wins. The small wins are from the day before. #educoach
A9: Several of our Ts are doing an evening event that includes a tour bus ride to a nearby town for dinner and a movie. #educoach Its a fundraiser for Relay for Life.
A9: Enjoying the excitement and buzz of the holiday I see in the teachers and students. Being in the moment. Focusing on family and trying not to bring a lot home over the break.#educoach
A9 I am going to take my 6 mo old to daycare some during the break and then take naps while she is there. I will also enjoy time with her and my family. #educoach
A8: Reflect on your year and reprioritize. Do you need to set new goals or change your big rocks? I know I want to reexamine the TIME I spend in different parts of my job this month.
#educoach
Hi all! Joining in quite late, but here nonetheless! Rebecca Johnson, Instructional Coach in Asheville, NC. A success this week was using success protocols with a teacher "cohort" I'm leading. Teachers left with a refreshed appreciation for the power of reflection! #educoach
A11: Rather than looking at December as a challenge -- use the positive energy to make it a time to thrive. And really focus on relationships with Ss. Let them know you care. #educoach
I can’t help answering this Q with more coaching Qs:
What would thriving as a coach look like for you?
What would you be noticing? What would others notice? What would that do for you? What else?
What small steps can you take to move closer to what you’ve described? #educoach
Q12 Have a topic that’s on your mind? Tweet them using the #educoach hashtag or add them to the form linked here https://t.co/9yuPKLnUYo A10 We created our own
I came in late too! Jackie—secondary instructional coach from PA. No school for me until Friday, but a success from before break was amazing thinking from 6th graders as we close read the lyrics and video to “The Greatest Show” from the movie “The Greatest Showman” #educoach
#Educoach Announcement: We will be having another book study starting in Mid January. Please nominate a book by Dec. 7 https://t.co/ZAtJ9H5eFP . Voting will begin shortly after that. Book will be chosen by late December to allow for ordering.
