Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Coaching Cycle?
Will my work with the coach be confidential?
Yes, please see the bottom of our home page for more specific information regarding confidentiality.
Why should I want to work with a coach? I have been teaching for 20+ years.
Everyone can benefit from reflecting on their own teaching practices and students. We all need to recognize that taking the time to sharpen our skills will only help students succeed even more.
Will the instructional coach have a say in my evaluation as a teacher?
No. The instructional coaches are not evaluators and, therefore, have no say in your yearly evaluation. If you are a Weare School District teacher and choose a coaching cycle in lieu of an observation you’ll get a certificate to prove completion and submit a reflection on your cycle to your evaluator.
When will I meet with the coach?
Considering the extremely busy schedules of the classroom teacher, the coach will work around your schedule. The coach and teacher will meet on a mutually agreed upon time either during the school day or possibly before or after school.
Can I get Professional Growth hours for my work with a coach?
Yes. A coaching cycle is a great way to engage in sustained professional growth and earn up to 10 hours of professional development. Other examples to get PG hours include unit planning, data analysis, or learning how to implement a new instructional practice. Teachers can request a certificate of completion from the coach with whom they work.
Will you take notes when you come and observe in my classroom?
Coaches may take notes during or after an observation. These notes will not be shared with anyone else and are used to help the coach keep track of the teacher’s goals and needs in their classroom. Classroom teachers may find that keeping a notebook of their own will help to direct conversations in coaching sessions and guide the teacher in more reflective practice.
How will I know if a coach has time to work with me?
A coach’s schedule changes every day. Contact us via email to set up a time to meet. We will always make time to meet with you. Sometimes we will be able to get to you right away and other times we may need to meet in the following weeks. If you are flexible with who you work with, you may be able to get an opening with a coach right away.