Tuesday, October 24, 2023
Written by: Rachel Fregien, Education Consultant for Coaching Supports, Special Education Team, DPI
I get to chat with coaches across the state all the time. One of the barriers that often arises in these discussions is related to setting up and maintaining a coaching system. We all know that a main role of coaching is to support educators in their practice of specific strategies. Ongoing research (Kraft, M.A., and Blazar, D. 2018) shows that effective coaching improves teacher practice. However, what is often overlooked, is that coaching is difficult to sustain if it is done in isolation of the broader system. Often, the coaches I connect with describe themselves as “isolated” or “singlets”.
The following tool has been adapted from the National Implementation Research Network to fit the needs of Wisconsin systems that are interested in implementing coaching in more than just an isolated job description or add-on. The tool includes key activities along with tools and resources that guides through each stage of implementing a robust coaching system of support.
The exploration stage is a critical starting place. Taking the time to explore what to do, how to do it, and who will do it saves time and money and improves the chances for success. It also helps to avoid the inevitable “solo” coach serving a district.
The exploration stage takes place well before coaching is put in place. The overall goal of this stage is to consider the extent to which coaching meets the needs of the community, and whether it is feasible. This stage dedicates the time to assess potential barriers related to funding, staffing and system changes. The result of the exploration stage is a clear plan with tasks and timelines to facilitate the installation and initial implementation of a coaching system. The plan creates “readiness” for the coaching and is an important place to start. Check out the video to learn more!