Embedded Files
Instructional Coaching in Topeka Public Schools
Instructional Coaching in Topeka Public Schools
Topeka Public Schools is proud to offer an instructional coaching support system to teachers. The work of an instructional coach is vital to the continuous improvement of individual teachers, as well as the school. Instructional coaches provide job-embedded professional development for teachers to support and sustain effective teaching and learning, resulting in improved student performance.
What does Instructional Coaching mean?
What does Instructional Coaching mean?
Just like athletic coaches on the court or field, instructional coaches provide teachers with ongoing support and feedback as they implement instructional techniques in the classroom. Coaching, in this sense, is designed to help teachers grow in their practice through a continuous support system. Instructional coaches in the Topeka Public Schools have demonstrated success as classroom teachers, and have developed specialized skills in reflective and planning practices, as well as providing effective feedback to change practices.
What are some coaching responsibilities?
What are some coaching responsibilities?
Instructional coaches provide many supports to educators in the field. The following are some of the supports coaches offer:
- Instructional planning support
- Reflective conversations
- Classroom observations with post observation feedback sessions
- In the moment feedback during observations
- Expertise in data analysis
- Facilitation of collaboration meetings
- Ongoing professional development
- Assessment coordination
Instructional Coaching is...
Instructional Coaching is...
"...one of the best ways to help staff continue to grow year after year. Everyone can benefit from coaching - from novice teachers to 30 year veterans. Coaching truly is job embedded professional learning!"
"...the voice in my head. After a coaching session I feel that I'm more able to reflect through what worked and didn't work than if I'd tried to analyze on my own. My coach helps me with my thinking, which in turn helps me improve my instruction."
"...my lifeline. When I'm struggling with how to best deliver content, or how to address student behaviors, I know my coach can assist me with all of my classroom needs. Having reflective conversations based on my data is so powerful. The coach sees and hears things I never see or hear. They are very perceptive and always ask really good questions that help me think!"
"...a tremendous support system for teachers like me. When planning for my students, I want to ensure I use the best strategies out there to be able to address their continuing needs. I'm can easily go to my coach for help with identifying what is best, based upon my classroom data and current educational research! She always has time to listen, coach me, and share ideas too!"
"...being supported through learning new strategies and fine tuning ones I already use. Coaching allows me to explore many aspects of my teaching - from classroom management to student engagement to my movement in the classroom. I wish I could have the coach in my room coaching me all the time!"
"...something I never wanted, but never knew how much I'd need it - until after experiencing a coaching session for the first time. I'm so thankful to have a coach there to support me with my own learning."
The Coaching Continuum
The Coaching Continuum
Instructional coaches wear many hats. One of the most important things a coach does is understand when it's time to change these "hats" during a conversations. It is essential for coaches to become effective at moving across the coaching continuum when engaged in a conversation with a teacher. They might wear the "hat" - or stance - of coach, consultant, or collaborator throughout a single conversation.
At times, a coach will engage in a reflective conversation, which can demonstrate the coaching stance. Coaches are able to identify when it is best to move into a consultant stance where they can give expert advice and testimonials.
Coaches collaborate with teachers on planning instruction based upon data. Collaboration can often lead to co-teaching or modeling experiences as well.
More information about the coaching continuum can be found by clicking the (+) symbol on the graphic to the right.
TPS Coaching Philosophy
TPS Coaching Philosophy
The instructional coaching program in Topeka Public Schools follow closely to the Cognitive Coaching model developed by Costa and Garmston, and incorporates aspects from the following experts in the field:
- Art Costa and Bob Garmston - Thinking Collaborative
- Elena Aguilar - Bright Morning Team
- Joellen Killion - Learning Forward Consulting
- Bruce Wellman and Laura Lipton - Mira Via
- Jim Knight - Instructional Coaching Group
Find out more about the coaching continuum using the Thinglink above!
Instructional Coaches wear many hats
Report abuse