An excerpt from Student-Centered Coaching from a Distance (Sweeney and Harris, forthcoming) There are lots of ways to formatively assess. One of the most powerful is through one-on-one conferences. In their text, Rigorous Reading, Nancy Frey and Douglas Fisher (2013) write, “Conferring provides the teacher with an excellent opportunity. These conferences allow the teacher to … Read more
(part 2 of a 3 part series) Written by Julie Steele, Consultant with Diane Sweeney Consulting Welcome back to part 2 of a 3-part series on Student-Centered Coaching and equity. If you missed part 1 you can access it here. As we continue this conversation, please keep in mind that school systems experience many equity … Read more
An excerpt from Student-Centered Coaching from a Distance (Sweeney and Harris, forthcoming) Now that we’ve had some time to settle into distance learning, we are hopefully beyond the place of addressing immediate needs of safety and access. This allows us to look more deeply into how we can actually teach our students in the best … Read more
(part 1 of a 3 part series) Written by Julie Steele, Consultant with Diane Sweeney Consulting In the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020, a spotlight has illuminated many, formerly less visible, issues around equity. While this blog will address how instructional coaching can mitigate against some of these realities, we do not kid ourselves into thinking … Read more
Written by: Leanna Harris and Diane Sweeney “Coaching is exceptionally needed but nobody has the time for it.” – Chris Finch, Assistant Superintendent, La Grange School District Now that the school year is in full swing, instructional coaches are looking for ways to go deeper in their partnerships with teachers. In years past, we … Read more
There is no question that teachers are facing unprecedented challenges as they adjust to hybrid and/or virtual instruction. Many proven pedagogical practices are no longer applicable which means we are in a constant state of innovation around teaching and learning. Lack of connection with students is also creating a sense of loss and disorientation for … Read more
Written by Diane Sweeney and Leanna Harris There is always so much to do in the first few weeks of school. Especially this year. Teachers will be reconnecting with their students after being apart. They will be setting up classrooms that meet the newest guidelines for keeping us safe, healthy, and learning. And they will … Read more
Written by Diane Sweeney and Leanna Harris We are all grappling with what to expect when school returns. One thing we know is that this school year won’t be normal. This means that coaching won’t be normal either. If we fail to acknowledge this simple fact, then we fail to be responsive to what’s right … Read more