#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 July 27, 2016
Good evening Let’s start by introducing ourselves and sharing a success story from the week
My was taking time to relax at a family reunion in Colorado Springs! Great times!
My is finally getting good ideas weaving together for a great new year!
Good evening ! Amanda DeGroote IC @ Waukee South MS. Successful ELA mtg this morning gearing up for the year.
Rachel from WI, Reading Specialist, Instructional Coach.My is getting my Teams book & reading by the beach.
Kim Wakefield IC from Kalispell. Began setting up my new office for an organized start to the school year.
Holly Gillam, Noblesville, IND my was SBUXS sunset drinks with friends about powerful partnerships
Welcome! What made the meeting succesful? (or maybe that will be coming up in another question for our book chat!)
Hi! K-5 Writing Resource Teacher. Spending lots of precious, valuable time with my daughter at the beach. 😉🌴
Ooh...I only read on my couch. Your location sounds much better!
Hello! Shannon Croston in Guatemala. Today was our 1st day back at work and we had fabulous PD from !
Greetings, I'm Mandi from NV. My is having a wonderful kick off with our fantastic Learning Strategists today
Meggan, from Central TX, science instructional coach. Not back at work yet. Still have a little bit of summer to enjoy!
Hi! Alyssa-literacy coach in two elem schools in Chicago suburb. Spent some quality time with the kiddos today!
Tifani from Iowa, instructional coach. is getting my office organized today!
Hi! Lauren, K-5 instructional coach, Indiana. Getting geared up to start another school year tomorrow!
Hello all! My : starting a book study with peeps. And a trip to Branson with hubby & granddaughters.
Hi . My is being able to incorporate the topic of instructional coaching into my summer course research.
Hello! Elena here. In Oakland, CA. My was the first day of the Art of Coaching Teams workshop! Fantastic people.
Hi everyone, Nikkii Mesa, Instructional Technology specialist. My was reconnecting with old friends and colleagues
Luis from Central Tx, Math instructional coach. My is getting to facetime with my girls just before chat
So glad you can join us tonight!
Charlie - HS Instructional Coach in Waukee, IA was collaboration with new building admin this week
Hi, all! Lisa, IC from Chicago. My is continuing to learn from my PLN.
THANKS for joining us tonight! The author of Art of Teaching Teams is in the house! YAY!
Melissa Pickens, coach in Avon, IN. My is leading staff PD on powerful partnerships AND first day of school in the books.
Hi , Chris in Melbourne, Australia - haven't done the reading but will watch chat with interest :)
Glad you joined us tonight! https://t.co/DVuUd0vDqt
Hello! Elena here. In Oakland, CA. My was the first day of the Art of Coaching Teams workshop! Fantastic people.
Tonight we celebrate the start of exactly 5 years ago today! Thanks for keeping us going strong each Wed! :) :) :)
Jillian from San Diego - looking forward to the book chat tonight.
thank you! I'm excited for this year's possibilities!
I think you'll still be able to join the discussion even without reading it.
Andy from wine country in central New York. was attending day 1 of 2 training with Peg Smith
Tonight we are discussed the Intro/ch1/ch2 of ’s book on Coaching Teams. Let’s get started!
To those of you who haven't read the book-don't worry, you'll still be able to join in the discussion. But the book is good!
---> Q1: What does the most effective team look and sound like when working together?
Wow! That is great. is 5 years strong and counting… https://t.co/NowRKpl7Xs
Tonight we celebrate the start of exactly 5 years ago today! Thanks for keeping us going strong each Wed! :) :) :)
Lucy Wilder from Central Texas
Congratulations on a fabulous 5 years of (global) support for coaches!
Amanda from NY Joining the chat tonight on the Art of Coaching Teams
I look forward to the sneak peek! 😉
A1 - listening to one another & playing off of each other's strengths
A1: eye contact, shared voice, listening, facing each other, clarifying
A1: Effective teams have mutual respect and know how to handle conflict. They are purposeful and productive.
A1: Successful teams take risks together, share feedback, help each other out, learn together.
+1 listening and strengths-based!
A1: Teams communicating, holding each other accountable with respect for differing ideas/perspectives.
A1 -- being reflective of practice and instruction. What went well? What did not?
A1: an effective team is collaborative, they work towards a common goal, have working agreements, and are able to grow 2ether
A1 Stays on topic, listens to ideas, considers students first.
A1: I see a succesful team like a pin ball machine lighting up because of the respectful dialogue and circular ideas
A1: Shared vision, reflective practice, questioning, and respect
A1: Conversations that are respectful of peoples time & expertise...
Brenna from IN joining the chat! Excited to learn with the group tonight!
A1: Good teams listen to each other, but question respectfully.
A1 Successful teams dig deep to learn together and meet student needs. They don't live in "status quo land."
Love the analogy! What do your effective teams look like/sound like? https://t.co/18jjFgsSRE
A1: I see a succesful team like a pin ball machine lighting up because of the respectful dialogue and circular ideas
A1 Effective teams sound like diverse voices, questions asked, ideas discussed; look like collaboration, products, and celebration.
Ooh, I like this. My family has a pinball machine obsession!
yes, collectiveness is important in moving teams forward
A1: affirming one another, yet challenging one another, equal parts listening to your colleagues and being engaged in the work
How do we move teams that ARE stuck in "status quo land"? https://t.co/xjtc33OnLU
A1 Successful teams dig deep to learn together and meet student needs. They don't live in "status quo land."
Staying on topic…that’s a good one!
Kevin, IC in Minnesota, a highlight has been catching up on great prof reading like The Art of Coaching Teams by
A1: everyone having a voice, analyzing student data & student focused
I like the visua of a pinball machinel. That kind of excitement is what being on a really great team feels like.
A1: Healthy conflict that results in increased student learning.
everyone listens to understand, really understand, not one member dominates conversation
A1 Great teams listen to understand; challenge thinking; respect & trust each other - a bit like a coaching partnership really
Pinballs go on tilt sometimes. Good teams can get back on track!
Q2: What gets in the way of teams effectively collaborating together?
A1: Effective teams TRUST one another and work together toward a shared meaningful purpose!
Good evening, . Sonya from Texas jumping in late. is meeting with my team to kick off the year!
A1: Give and take; sharing and growing ideas together. "None of us is as smart as all of us..."
I find this...groups that stay the same yr after yr stick w/ their same rolls & can be hard to "mix it up" & grow
Oh, now I can tell that you do play pinball! ;)
Yes... respect and trust are very important
I like the notion of 'healthy confilct' - respectful debate towards common goal.
They start with the student
A1: Norms, firm belief in partnership principles as well
I agree there has to be a balance between affirmation and challenge.
A2: Egos. There has to be a feeling of trust that failing is healthy...so is not knowing.
A1: Successful teams have norms, ask tough questions, listen respectfully, keep students learning at forefront and collaborate
A2: Not understanding or respecting the personalities of the group. Poor facilitation. Lack of clarity.
Oh yes, they sure do, don't they?
+1 healthy conflict! Better honest disagreement than lukewarm compliance
Hello! Michelle from Oregon. Perfect book study for me. Jumping into coaching role. Skimmed chapters. I've been vacationing.
Agree. Some people are so reluctant to have any conflict & it's healthy conflict that challenges us to grow!
Yes, I really need to use this one.
I'm glad, too! I always enjoy learning with
A2: fear of disagreement- when we are always trying to make each other happy vs solve problems
A2: lack of trust can be a huge barrier for teams-it's a big foundation to collaboration
A2: One thing I think gets in the way of effective collaboration is competition and the need to be heard without listening.
A2: Not having a growth mindset & thinking the way it has always been needs to continue. Where can we grow & benefit Ss more?
A1-all voices are welcome and heard, ideas are shared, participants challenge and nudge
Right, not just listen to say your two cents back. Listening to understand.
A2: Falling into the trap of dwelling on deficits and negativity.
A1: they honor and respect each other and are student centered
Continue to model. Set clear vision TOGETHER. Purposeful norms& expectation to be held accountable.
A2: Uninterrupted time to meet as a team!
+1 poor facilitation. Death by Meeting LOL
How do we help teachers problem solve together and respectfully disagree? https://t.co/viPWwXhHKJ
A2: fear of disagreement- when we are always trying to make each other happy vs solve problems
A2: Some teams are just so overwhelmed that it’s hard to prioritize and get down to business…
A2: lack of relationships, competetion, misunderstandings, previous conceptions about team members, unwillingness
Sorry about the tech troubles.
A2 A lack of a clear and shared goal hinders effective collaboration. Also, trust and EI of the group
A dangerous saying, "This is the way we have always done it."
A2: selfishness, unpreparedness, lack of growth mindset and putting teachers needs before students all stagnate teams.
A1: Teams work 2gether, thru probs and listen to others' viewpoints, always with a mindset
A2: Teams are less effective without a clear vision--we all need to know what we're working to build in order to build it
I agree! miscommunication is another one
YES YES YES. Building healthy teams takes TIME.
A2: "A team is great when its members learn things that they wouldn't have learned had they been alone."
A2: not taking the regular time to learn about one another. With no solid, ongoing relationship, difficult convos don't happen
This is when we have to think, how can we help shift their thinking...
A2 Team effectiveness can be inhibited by attitudes & behaviours - need to learn to collaborate before collaborating to learn
A2: lack of common vision to act in best interest of Ss; everyone has to do their part
A2 Fear can be a deterrent to effective teams. Fear of sharing, fear of change, fear of being different.
I think it has a lot to do with having a clear focus or goal and also lots of trust. https://t.co/xi8RGCZ8Fz
How do we help teachers problem solve together and respectfully disagree? https://t.co/viPWwXhHKJ
A2: fear of disagreement- when we are always trying to make each other happy vs solve problems
A2 Lack of trust. Cliques. People feeling left out or put down.
I love Crucial Conversations. Practical and helpful advice
A2: when members feel like the workload is unequally distributed or that no everyone is "pulling their own weight"
A2 Not student focused, not wanting to do the extra work, not having respect for individuals & differences, not wanting to change
Sorry, Julie from Kansas coming in late!
We need our teams to simplify and choose A focus so they can be effective. https://t.co/GoYdidH5vS
A2: Some teams are just so overwhelmed that it’s hard to prioritize and get down to business…
Evening ! Amanda, math/tech TOSA jumping in late from CA
A2 Also, fear of judgement.
Q3: How can knowing the brain research and reflecting on our own personal histories impact us as leaders of teams?
Need to have the end in mind! https://t.co/GLve13hlHb
A2: Teams are less effective without a clear vision--we all need to know what we're working to build in order to build it
A2: not knowing what to expect
A2 Effective meetings can be derailed by individual agendas & motives and dominating personalities (if allowed to)
Keeping the kids at the center of our work, planning, teaching, etc. -- less about adults and more about them.
I wonder if having a common, articulated vision/goal would solve many of these problems.
A2: Using the phrase, "But we've always done it that way!"
A2: one biggie is time. Like others said, not taking time to align, establish purpose, get to know eachother and etc
often times teachers are challenged with many initiatives, sometimes the focus seems like a million rather than 1
Q2: Ts not willing to embrace change and growth. Must develop in order to collaborate.
I agree and believe trust is built through clear communication and lots of follow up
A1 Successful teams seek constructive feedback and work collaboratively to improve student learning opportunities
Very well said https://t.co/1OmYO4D6hJ
A2 Team effectiveness can be inhibited by attitudes & behaviours - need to learn to collaborate before collaborating to learn
A2.2 lack of vision. Vision is important, coupled with choices for how the team can utilize their strengths to achieve the vision
Got here late, so sorry! Academic coach working w/HS and college students.
Yes! Otherwise we are meeting just to "meet" and the team spins its wheels
A2 Lack of trust, leading to unwillingness to be vulnerable, can hamper team collaboration.
Building effective teams means picking up the breadcrumbs that are there to help make change one step at a time
I was just going to say that! Some team members won’t speak up for sure because of a fear of being judged…
When we are overwhelmed then we spin our wheels. Clear focus and clear leadership is important. https://t.co/9fmevmSCGU
We need our teams to simplify and choose A focus so they can be effective. https://t.co/GoYdidH5vS
A2: Some teams are just so overwhelmed that it’s hard to prioritize and get down to business…
Q3: The research helps us understand and the reflection helps us to adjust, learn from, and connect through expereinces
Yes. And without a trusted coach/leader to guide through the initiatives, this only gets worse.
A3:"Our emotions and the ways we express them are the core elements of our leadership presence."
A3 personal history: Had MANY great leaders. Had a couple destructive ones. Trust sometimes an issue
A3: I have personally found mindfulness to be a huge factor for me to lead.
A2: Often, Ts have standards to be met & find it difficult to collaborate w/ other Ts when their teaching standards aren't similar
Creating opportunities for Ts 2b successful is so important for change and growth https://t.co/b1a1HQ1hFp
Q2: Ts not willing to embrace change and growth. Must develop in order to collaborate.
You're right. Admin needs to be on board with simplifying. But we can help teams we work with to prioritize.
A2: Fear of failure or critique, a sense of competition to be the best, a focus on self rather than others.
A3: Brain research section was a great read reminds us to stop & reason before getting emotional on decisions
A3: Examining our personal history helps us recognize our faults and strive to match our + role models.
Quite possibly one of THE most innovation-killing phrases known to humankind!
Absolutely. Join in the conversation by having in your tweets.
Jo Boaler ROCKS! I also read this. Truth bombs on every page
Oh yes yes yes! Can you tell from my writing that I'm a huge mindfulness proponent and practitioner?
I agree, being mindful and present makes a huge difference.
Stay orange... the power of positive thinking
Relationships build trust and trust allows teams to take risks. https://t.co/sECOVpneQj
A2 Fear can be a deterrent to effective teams. Fear of sharing, fear of change, fear of being different.
A3 As coaches/leaders we can help others see their leadership qualities even prior to discovering for themselves.
A3: Knowing ourselves as leaders of teams allows us to manage conflicts, foster collaboration and, motivate and inspire others
Hello! Allison from SC. I am in and out tonight. Loving the chat. In & out tonight.
it's all about how we perceive, convey, and engage in the work. Mindfulness matters
Thanks Kim. Just like with kids - there's much more to it than sitting individuals around the same table!
A3: Because trust is so huge in team building, knowing brain research of our emotional intelligence builds the foundation of trust
+1 IDing others to help lead and carry the load
A3: If we take it seriously, knowing the brain research helps us get past problems that might otherwise seem insurmountable.
A3: I have to learn more about myself after reading the first 2 chapters! Then I will recognize my emotions better & empathize.
I agree...let's look at the connections between initiatives rather than the differences
Q4: Think of a leader you admire. What qualities do you draw inspiration from?
100% YES! I thought about setting team visions that stem from the school vision as i read that section
A3: Knowing how relate to emotional intelligence and being able to ask reflective questions regarding both ability and mood.
Yes - mindfulness is such a power approach to leadership. Stay grounded. Balanced.
A3 It's difficult to change or use what we can't name. We need to know ourselves and know the research to become the best us.
As a coach, I'm working to build capacity to make learning better and different for students
A4: Leading by showing rather than demanding; leading by quiet communication rather than shouting...
A3 If we understand how reason and emotion work according to brain research,we plan programs and professional learning accordingly
A3: helps us to model self-improvement. If we want a team to get better, we need to too! Starts with total presence on teams
calm, assertive, visionary, and isn't afraid to be vulnerable.
and your still awake to chat after the first day!!! Welcome.
"Amygdala in time out!" I love it.
Me too. The teams I work with could benefit from being clear on our purpose and goals.
A4: leaders who are kind and lift others up.
A4: The best leaders are the best listeners & empower others.
PrincipalJ A2 There is such an urgency to be better than everyone else, that nothing is getting done
A4 I was nurtured, inspired, prodded and probed to help me find my niche
A4: A leader that demonstrates humility and grace
I loved the chapter in the book about self-awareness and self-management for leaders.
A3: the research really showed how important self-reflection can be when regarding change
+1 Great leaders are great listeners!
Q4: They see me as both a human (outside of work), and as a professional, they push me to take risks and support me.
A4: Empathic. Always appreciate a leader who seeks to understand me and what's going on & who push me to grow those strengths!
A4 Seeing the good in others. Believing in others. Building on strengths.
A4: Encouraged risk, valued my strengths, supported me in improving my weakness. Was inspirational and caring.
A4: Courage. Heart. Commitment. Vision. Humor. Joy.
Yes! It took me forever to get through it because I kept stopping and reflecting!
A4: Honestly believes in you, and empowers you to success even when you don’t feel that you have it in you - a critical friend.
A2: There is such an urgency to be better than everyone else, that nothing is getting done
A4: Leaders who have self-awareness and understand the various personalities they work w/ & how that can + drive student outcomes
When we answer we should use "A#," not "Q#," right?
best leaders create more leaders a4
A4: Servant leaders who facilitate, listen, understand, and recognize potential for growth and then nurture it
A4: Acknowledges gifts in others and has details to back them up, acknowledges challenges, but doesn't dwell on them. Flexible!
A4: Good leaders mantra, "when things go well, the group takes the glory...When things go poorly, I'll take the heat"
A3 With each new interaction, I always reflect. How did it go? Why did go well or wrong? And then repeat or readjust.
Believing everyone is creative, resourceful and whole.
A4: a leader who inspired me worked alongside me instead of in front of me. I felt fully heard and appropriately challenged
A4: Not afraid of failure and getting themselves right there in the middle of the work.
A4: Challenge you to be the best you can be
A4: self-awareness. Celebrate our strengths and own our areas that could stand improvement. Self-deprecating humor can help.
A4: listens, great integrity, honest, acts in best interest of students, builds strong relationships
A4: Finding something in me I was unaware of, and guiding me with questions and opportunities. They pushed with a smile
Ahh yea, humor and joy. They keep people happy and in turn they work even harder
A3: Awareness of your "true north" can help the individuals and the team as a whole find their "true north"
I'm so glad!! That's exactly how I hope people will read - stopping every page or two to reflect.
A4: Neutral listener, positive vibes always, taking input from others to make informed decisions, simplifies goals and focus
A4 Patience, personal growth, respect, modeling
this is so important. They need to see you before they can lead you!
Q5: What strategies do you use to manage your own feelings, especially when feeling upset/frustrated/worried?
Doesn't seem like that out be an environment for teaching & learning... :(
i was once told you know you've done a good job when you've worked yourself out of it, build your teacher leaders..
A4: Great leaders are great listeners, insatiable learners, tireless supporters and passionate motivators.
Phew! I thought I might be over thinking! Ha!
A5 and remembering that it's not personal
A5: I generally have to pull away. I'm not good at managing bad feelings when people are staring at me. Closed door, phone off.
A4: Ldrs that empower others and find the positive in all situations
Good leaders create a safe environment to share your voice.
A4: Best leaders are good listeners, collaborative, multipliers
Yes that is very important, but also very difficult for me to do.
A5: Reflect quietly, write down my thoughts, and respond if necessary 24 hrs. later
I love this question, Kathy.
Reading this book is such an inspiration. Spent all last week working with the Art of Coaching
A5 Pausing and asking questions. Where is this person coming from? Understanding their side more can find that common ground.
A5 Exercise more! Listen to calming music. Meditate.
Q5: I either need quiet time and space or a good workout to zone out and process. Always time before acting.
A5 look for a + somewhere at school, often the s can put a :) on your face https://t.co/cpBZhpXbgE
Q5: What strategies do you use to manage your own feelings, especially when feeling upset/frustrated/worried?
A5: Think before you speak; honor perspective of others; reflect; ask clarifying questions
A5: I try to refocus on the facts. Also remembering that others' perceptions are their realities.
A5: Acknowledge that I’m experiencing these feelings - walk away to reflect - and then remind myself not to take it personally.
A4: Empathic, hands on, stays close to what goes on in the classrooms, always keeps teacher workload in mind when making decisions
A5: I try to ask questions to help me understand better.
A5: 24 hr rule works well for me: I listen carefully & take notes to see if the feelings are still as intense
YES! Sometimes I find notorious 1-uppers are completely unaware. What approach do you take w/1-uppers?
A4 The leader I most admire had a great ability to encourage and lead. plus incorporated the ideas of many.
A5 I try to remember that people generally have good intentions. Looking for positives helps.
+24 for the twenty-four hour rule. Very wise!
A5: trying to use more mindfulness practices! Also taking a break to reflect on next steps.
I say this often to my fellow district coaches too! https://t.co/uVUmmcSDcs
i was once told you know you've done a good job when you've worked yourself out of it, build your teacher leaders..
Good advice! I need time to get to this point, though. Get over my own hurt feelings and move on! https://t.co/mQLJGOdWMc
A5 Pausing and asking questions. Where is this person coming from? Understanding their side more can find that common ground.
A5: Keep the long view; extend grace; learn and go on
A5: I'm getting better at addressing feelings when movement in group is needed. Nothing worse than not knowing what is upsetting.
A4: A positive attitude, timely and constructive feedback, praise for a job well done, a listening ear and guidance when needed.
A1. Lots of effective communication. Honest conversations. Arguing without blame.
A5: I journal daily and mark particularly challenging days, then reflect about them after I have had a few days to process
A5: I need to talk to a few trusted friends! They reason with me and let me talk it out...
A5- remind myself that I strive to be calm and definitive- take a deep breath and try to show those qualities.
Remembering to not take it personally and not actually take it personally seem hard for me. :)
Great question. I need some approaches for this too! https://t.co/5RNo0lkWEZ
YES! Sometimes I find notorious 1-uppers are completely unaware. What approach do you take w/1-uppers?
This chat is moving WAY fast tonight, I'll have to go back and re-read tweets later...phew!
A4: A true leader is not a manager. A true leader inspires and motivates.
A5: I like to write down the questions I need answered and look for themes. Try to find a neutral party to to discuss concerns
Yeah, I'm having the same problem
A5: Either running on a treadmill or writing in a journal in order to think through what I'm feeling, why, and what to do next.
I get emotional & I find writing when observing helps me keep my emotions N check unless a child is getting hurt,then all bets off
A5: Always put ! Take a break, relax, seek advice & think how to achieve goal w/o stress https://t.co/jET8jCgegq
Q5: What strategies do you use to manage your own feelings, especially when feeling upset/frustrated/worried?
A5: I remind myself of the positive things in my life, and move forward!
A2. People afraid to address the 'elephant' in the room.
A5: I have a trusted and respected colleague I can talk to. Oh, and I shoot archery once a week!
I like this idea -- journaling.
Exercise is critical in this job! (or wine!) https://t.co/TcvTSTBfKx
A5: Either running on a treadmill or writing in a journal in order to think through what I'm feeling, why, and what to do next.
A5: Debrief with people I trust and whose opinions I value.
yes growth mindset and understanding that teams are what schools are built on especially in these demanding times
part of great collaboration is being selfless.
Listening with empathy often helps me contain my feelings , putting myself in the other person's shoes
Yes, pausing b4 responding huge! Easier via email, but taking notes F2F & asking "Can I get back 2U" sometimes good, too
A5: When I am at school I visit an Art, music, tech, or PE class
I try very hard to remember that! Especially when answering emails!
You're moving us right into our next question!
I have a colleague who is an excellent archer. Threat of harm keeps my emotions in check.
Q6: How can we demonstrate empathy to a teacher who may be experienced more stress? What will our empathy look/sound like?
Me too. Teaching is such a personal profession. This is really tough. https://t.co/nq5CpdTYuu
Remembering to not take it personally and not actually take it personally seem hard for me. :)
This is a mark of great leadership https://t.co/Ftc0EYvbK7
A4: a leader who inspired me worked alongside me instead of in front of me. I felt fully heard and appropriately challenged
That is a great idea. Being able to just interact with the Ss and relax. I need to try this https://t.co/QqMBZg9l27
A5: When I am at school I visit an Art, music, tech, or PE class
A5: I listen to music and sing really loudly.
Yes, emails...i've started answering those more in person instead of through email. too hard to judge tone.
A6: No idea - I am autistic and showing empathy is a mystery to me.
Oh, I LOVE this question so much!! So glad you're asking it.
teaches the Q-TIP strategy to calm upset. It means Quit Taking It Personal.
Journaling is a new strategy for me this year. I love the idea of going back and reflecting after a few days.
Many things, but the most used…modeling collaboration and praising and recognizing others https://t.co/FCoSpqnnsv
YES! Sometimes I find notorious 1-uppers are completely unaware. What approach do you take w/1-uppers?
Me, too. Especially in the car.
A5:I listen more, talk less when emotional...revisit topic later if possible
Q6: put yourself in others shoes and listen, listen, listen. Provide support where you can and be available
A5: I also have certain classrooms I like to regroup in. These classrooms are everything that's good about education!
Try to see from different perspectives.
Visiting preschool helps, also! Love those littles!
A3. They gain a new perspective and be able to view the perspectives of other team members
A6 The lesson of Job's friends. Shut up and listen. Empathy is often intensely silent and personal.
Interesting. What strategies do you use when listening to others?
A6: Listen to their concerns, be present, in the moment, let them know they are valued. Guide them to their own solution
A6: You have to care. Listening with empathy means trying to understand. Restating what the other person is saying to show this.
A6: Keep asking questions to find the root of the stress.
A6: Nothing is permanent; listen, fill needs, encourage, move toward collaboration, encourage; simplify what's tricky w/ empathy
Q6: Listen, that is, really listen, and not try to fix the situation but empower our colleague to reach a solution
I will be a listener, listening and really hearing, trying to understand what are the reasons the person is struggling
I heard somewhere "If you can't NAME it, you can't TAME it!"
A4. Their ability to get results, admit mistakes, and be strong
A6: Making sure they are truly being heard & supporting their needs. Thinking about what if that were me in their shoes?
A6: Let Ts express their feelings acknowledge their feelings - and then ask how you can help. Ask if they want, b4 giving advice.
A5 Never forget what it is like to be a teacher in the stressful, busy times. Lend a hand. Honor their time.
A6 listening, offering a hand, words of encouragement https://t.co/QgY9kNZeoy
Q6: How can we demonstrate empathy to a teacher who may be experienced more stress? What will our empathy look/sound like?
A5 Journaling, prayer, and calling gym retired mom 😃 helps me destress.
Q6: Ask lots of questions to truly understand the struggle and help that teacher put some actions in place to decrease stress
i would always go hang out with K3 and K4 classrooms when having a rough day! Im@in middle school now. I miss that.
A6: just listen and offer suggestions to fix. must be careful, though, to not lower expectations-still have to do our best work
I so agree! Our colleague will feel empowered if they come to a solution, not my solution.
This is one I'm personally working on to improve!
A6: You have to understand that they are on a journey and see them for where they are. Listen and be present
Oh yes - don't fix! Hard to resist sometimes.
A6.1: showing empathy comes from honest compassion for the other person. Think first about a time you were extremely stressed
A5: Seek first to understand, ask questions, and seek advice from a trusted colleague.
Sometimes all they really need is someone to listen, not offer advice or try to fix the problem. (Stephen Covey)
A5. Telling yourself to walk away when you are not 'balanced' in thought
A6: Sounds like listening, truly listening with intention to understand not reply.
A6 Acknowledge the emotion and THEIR reality. Listen, keep listening, then listen some more. Fight your inner 'fixer' & coach!
Adult learners are often aware of their needs. Simply asking can be the best strategy sometimes. https://t.co/1nrzzyMepD
A6: Let Ts express their feelings acknowledge their feelings - and then ask how you can help. Ask if they want, b4 giving advice.
agree most times just listen and don't insert a personal story
A6: Listening. From there together we can work it out and it looks/sounds different person to person
Ah yes, and that implies accepting them. That they're on a journey. Wherever they are is where they are. Powerful
I agree it is their journey to go through and we have to meet them where they are.
A6: Listen to understand instead of listening to reply.
A6.2 then be there for the person. Ask them questions and be prepared to give them space or time depending on what they need
A5 Not dwelling too much on it. You win some, you lose some. Keep moving forward and learn from the experience.
I often pull reflective strategies from "Teach, Reflect, Learn" by
Yes! Just bc it may not have same impact for you doesn't mean it doesn't matter. Respect who they are. https://t.co/4134Vc0aHP
A6: Listen to their concerns, be present, in the moment, let them know they are valued. Guide them to their own solution
Do whatever is needed even f that means running off worksheets, yuck , but I will do it to assist https://t.co/IpbVruH97W
A5 Never forget what it is like to be a teacher in the stressful, busy times. Lend a hand. Honor their time.
Not everything can be or needs to be fixed! I like this "fight your inner 'fixer'"! https://t.co/QFMY8iflnm
A6 Acknowledge the emotion and THEIR reality. Listen, keep listening, then listen some more. Fight your inner 'fixer' & coach!
A6 First listening, then asking what they need, last being reliable and present to the agreed “achievables”.
A6: listening and offering supportive environment.
A5 lend an ear and really listen and validate their feelings. Offer encouragement and understanding.
And sometimes, they just want to let steam out or maybe it’s not the right time to give advice…wait! https://t.co/IqA2MQ1Cq7
Adult learners are often aware of their needs. Simply asking can be the best strategy sometimes. https://t.co/1nrzzyMepD
A6: Let Ts express their feelings acknowledge their feelings - and then ask how you can help. Ask if they want, b4 giving advice.
Q7: What can we do, as coaches, to cultivate positive, productive school environments?
A6.2: Good point was made of excepting them where they are in their struggle, not judging them or trying to fix
A6: rephrase what T says to confirm understanding. Show genuine empathy while asking questions to help give insight.
A6: Teaching is stressful and joyful. Recommended bringing a personal talent into room to distract, smile, recenter
That 'fixer' has such a strong voice! You are right, it is "their" reality and that is what is important to remember.
great response! I love this one.
Wait time is good for everything!
A5 I am in discipline so constant - situations, actually have a diffuser with "happy juice"
A6 Being an empathetic listener has to do with understanding what the speaker is looking for from you. A fix, listener, defender?
this is a great video, I've used it several times!
. Yes! It's braver to ask a question than to offer advice. (paraphrasing Brene Brown)
I love this video, we watch it every year, sometimes more. I even break it out for my husband!
A7: Empower teacher leaders and showcase the great things happening throughout the school!
A5 Journaling, prayer, and calling gym retired mom 😃 helps me destress.
A7: If anything model it everywhere we go and nurture it whenever we see it with praise or support
A7 Model positive interactions among students, faculty, administration, and staff. Appreciate everyone's contributions
A6 Be careful not to project your reality and feelings on the speaker. It's not about the listener.
A7: Don’t make promises that we can’t keep. Be honest & be honest about our limitations. If not, distrust & neg. feelings happen.
A6 First listening, then asking what they need, last being reliable and present to the agreed “achievables”.
+1 showcasing highlights!
Yes! Intention and understanding. We don't need to fix, just offering a safe place to release neg energy. https://t.co/nBgFOlSziI
A6: Sounds like listening, truly listening with intention to understand not reply.
A7 share other t ideas from inside school, include Ts on school wide decisions when can https://t.co/M7rjZOf97a
Q7: What can we do, as coaches, to cultivate positive, productive school environments?
A7: Celebrating the victories that are happening in your school, big or small. Growth is growth!
Awesome chat! Heading out early, and will see you next week!
A6 I hope to get teachers using twitter as a way to share, empower and inspire
A7: Cultivate an environment that focuses on strengths therefore building a community of support for individual weaknesses.
A7: be positive. be productive. don't admire the problem, celebrate successes, large and small. https://t.co/TxiC7rD0mT
Q7: What can we do, as coaches, to cultivate positive, productive school environments?
Yes, hard for teachers to do and the 'fixer' voice gets stronger if you're in their context.
A7: Model what we desire through our own actions. Be somebody's somebody so to speak-we all can grow/learn from each other
What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate?
Q8: What questions might you have for the author, after reading Chapters 1 & 2?
1st year teaching promised kids no yelling end of year eval, "Don't keep promises you can't keep" ouch
A6: Thank you Shannon for the reminder to "be present" - we are best able to hear/speak with compassion https://t.co/Qs9sa3Dslb
A6: You have to understand that they are on a journey and see them for where they are. Listen and be present
A6 Share stories of our struggles. Be transparent. If stress at home, put a card or note in their box.
A7: model the behavior you want to see and bring awareness to the areas that need some attention. Reflection.
A7: model what we hope to see. Be a good communicator, ongoing learner and hard worker. Empathize, show patience, & improve always
A7 The cliche be the change you want seems to fit here. We model positivity and do not engage in unhealthy behaviors.
Credibility, trust built when we keep our word & make good on promises. Easier said than done; critical though
A7: Believe in what you are doing!
A7 I hope to get teachers using twitter as a way to share, empower and inspire each other
A7: Be a role model of positivity and producitivity. Do what you say you are going to do, and be enthusiastic
Lol. Great reminder to go back to singing and dancing at the end of the day. https://t.co/esyYm5zWfb
A5: I listen to music and sing really loudly.
Sometimes feedback can hurt. . but great opportunity for us to become stronger teachers. https://t.co/XsqrJW88Er
1st year teaching promised kids no yelling end of year eval, "Don't keep promises you can't keep" ouch
yes...take time to highlight the successes, don't wait for the "big" ones
A7: Model. Walk the talk. Be impeccable in your communication with others.
A8 When are teams better than individuals? When should leaders make independent decisions?
A7: I think if we can teach others to be self aware as indicated in the book & have more EI toward each other we could defy limits
A7 The right blend of modeling and coaching teacher's thinking should help promote positivity.
A7: collaborative spirit, positive problem solver, celebrate teams working together, take care of staff who take care of Ss
A7: As coaches, we can cultivate productive school environ by being positive--continually being a witness to the good for Ts
Communication between ALL stakeholders.
Agreed, if staff feel supported, then students will be supported.
A8 School starts in a two weeks. What is the most important first step toward establishing effective teams?
A7: Celebrate successes, publicly praise innovation and creativity, listen to concerns but be solution oriented.
Q8: Time is always a barrier for teams, advice for cultivating and celebrating a team that is swamped (district level).
A8 How do you manage your emotions when things get heated ?
Q8: How can we teach our colleagues about the importance of EI & understanding how personality impacts growth?
Great Q. Leaders will always need to make some indpt decisions.
A8: Cultural competency is huge. Are there recommended steps to making this convo a regular part of team meetings?
And there needs to be a reason to work together as a team - so purpose needs to be articulated.
A8: What if you are unhappy with your own Emotional Intelligence? Can you work towards managing those areas?
A8: I would like to intro and work on EI with my grade level coordinators. What do you suggest to get me started?
Ditto. https://t.co/r2l8RDb2yJ
Q8: How can we teach our colleagues about the importance of EI & understanding how personality impacts growth?
Take deep breaths. Practice mindfulness. Try other ideas shared in this chat.
Yes! I agree. This is so important. Looking for suggetions here too. https://t.co/Qe6aNZX5Wf
A8: Cultural competency is huge. Are there recommended steps to making this convo a regular part of team meetings?
Lol! You're tweet has popped up in the middle of the weekly chat on The Art of Coaching Teams :)
Insist on your right to have time. Narrow priorities, sharpen focus. Clarify purpose.
Q8: Where can we find out more about the Elmore study quoted in the book on page 6?
A7 Compliment & build up teachers, develop trust, be transparent, don't act like a know it all, send encouraging notes & letters
So many great questions for in A8's tonight. She'll likely need time to go through those!
A8 How do you build cross team cultures school wide or separate buildings? Helping them to see similarities?
A8: the foundation must be a common understanding of vision & commitments; it's all about relationships!
Determine who you want to be as a team's leader. See ch. 2! And then build trust.
Q8: Advice for teachers working with teams on top of having a full-time classroom?
Q9: What take-aways do you have from tonight’s chat?
Sometimes we forget why we came together in the 1st place and purpose keeps us honest and focused Love it! https://t.co/9fhMgPq3Lo
And there needs to be a reason to work together as a team - so purpose needs to be articulated.
How should I begin in a new school? I know build trust but would love some ideas
When there is a defined purpose, people don't mind giving time.
Q10: feeling refreshed and motivated as well as like I've added some more tools to my toolkit. thank you
A8: Advice for coaches who work on multiple campuses with multiple teams that all meet at the same time.
Good question! I'm moving to a new school on Monday!
Ditto! Thanks https://t.co/EdLOQweRzn
Q10: feeling refreshed and motivated as well as like I've added some more tools to my toolkit. thank you
Yes!! So many good ones. And many responses to these already in the Art of Coaching Teams!
A8: ask yourself, how could this NOT play a role in learning?
A9 Lead through listening. Ask questions to build understanding. A team that feels appreciated will do more than expected!
Same here! Great chat tonight. https://t.co/7YAMJQ0P6Q
Q10: feeling refreshed and motivated as well as like I've added some more tools to my toolkit. thank you
Sorry my computer is powering down. Thanks , and
A9: Chat reminded me of importance of making time 2 debrief our day before we dive into solutions. Ts rarely have time 2 connect
Thanks for using this book! I am so excited abt content! | Slow down; build structures first (like Ss) know myself, 2
A9: Slow down. Listen. Take a deep breath. Think. (Or dance!) And then act.
A9: That the best leaders have similar qualities. They inspire through compassion, purpose, and value of others.
A9: Take care of yourself so you can care for others, establish your purpose and listen. Always listen
A9: I can't wait to dedicate more time to reading this amazing book from and more twitter sessions with
A9: Leading teams takes good listening, asking the right questions, and managing my own emotions.
Dancing is a must! We have to have fun together too! https://t.co/1BPaQO3MOv
A9: Slow down. Listen. Take a deep breath. Think. (Or dance!) And then act.
A9 Takeaway - I really do need to buy book! 😊
Yes we must remember to "sharpen our saws"..take time for ourselves.
Yes, I'm looking forward to the rest of it!
Yes! you'l love it, great at provoking thinking along the way. Lots of notes in my margins. https://t.co/XDlhUqlnRq
A9 Takeaway - I really do need to buy book! 😊
Just a reminder that we will be discussing ch 3-5 next week. We can also continue our conversations in the voxer group.
i'm telling myself that tonight as my to-do list stares me down:)
Yes!! Best purchase this year! Amazon-Prime-it.
Love how my grew again tonight. Thank you all for opening up & helping me grow.
A special thanks to for joining us this evening to help us learn and grow and build strong teams.
it's amazing!! This is my 2nd reading of it this summer!
