Virtual Coaching in a Virtual World
April 2020
Throughout the month of March, schools around the country suddenly found themselves in a unique situation. Due to COVID-19, we are now learning and working from home.
As coaches, many of our coaching conversations depend on in-person communication. We read body language, facial expressions, and our questions and responses are triggered by what we read from our coachees. What does this new normal mean for coaches? In this new situation, how do we coach effectively from a distance?
While the current situation does pose a new set of challenges, there are ways to continue to support teachers virtually. A vital piece as you reach out to teachers is to let them know you are there as a support. Take steps to open communication lines. If you haven’t reached out, it’s not too late to do so! They need to know you are there and ready to assist them as they move forward.
Across the nation, we are seeing teachers make a rapid shift to remote learning. And with this sudden shift there are many different choices and challenges to be faced. Despite these new challenges, educators everywhere are sharing ideas and inspiring each other with sentiments of hope and determination to continue learning with their students. Due to recent events and changes it is readily apparent that teachers must continue to learn and grow themselves, they do not have the option to NOT learn and grow. As a coach, how can you help to support their professional learning?