This year I’m moving from the role of Technology Integration Specialist to that of an Instructional Coach. For awhile now I’ve been attempting to frame what this will mean for me and my work. This week I wrote up a piece for my staff to try to help them to know what I do for them. In the process I helped define much of my role for myself. I think this is just the beginning, but this is what I sent out this week.
What exactly is an Instructional Coach?
As the year starts, I’ve been thinking a lot about what my new role is at Northeast. Until this year, you’ve known me as a TIS who, hopefully, could help you with your technology and figure out how to use it. The good news is, I’m still that guy. Those who know me know that technology is my thing. That hasn’t changed and I will talk with you about technology anytime you’re interested (and maybe even when you’re not). However, as an Instructional Coach, I have the opportunity to go beyond that and really work with you on a deeper and much more effective level around all things instruction. If it happens in the classroom, it’s in my realm. Additionally, much of my work will be centered around supporting the work of CLTs this year.
Here are some ways that this might look:
- Design and Organization
Create a learning environment that facilitates effective instruction (ie. physical space, classroom discipline, student reflections, etc…)
- Plan: Unpack a Unit of Study
Get familiar with a unit of study in order to design Stage 3 (lessons) with student goals in mind.
- Examine Student Work
In an informal sense, a chance to get another set of eyes on student work.
- Examine Student Data
Analyze data to help make inferences about the data and determine what is working and what is not to help design instruction.
- Formal or Informal Coaching Cycle
Collaborate with individuals or CLT’s to work toward improvement in any desired area.
- Work with Students
Assist with helping individuals or groups of students to reach their potential.
- Problem Solving
Facilitate probing for root causes.
- Technology Integration
I still do a lot with technology and can certainly help you decide the appropriate tool and strategy to use with your students.
Bottom line, I’m here to support you. That will mean a lot of things. If you have a question, ask. I’m a resource for you as you work to help students in every curricular area. If you want to try something new, have someone observe you in a nonevaluative role, or just chat about what you’re doing in the classroom, contact me and we’ll get together.
Cross posted to Northeast Middle School Friday Flyer
