Best Practices in Instructional Coaching

Instructional Coaching. A Plan for Success.

Next to teachers, the most precious asset of any school is its instructional leaders. Instructional leaders with deep understanding of content and pedagogy can transfrom teaching and learning in a school. They know who to hire and how to support them. Weak instructional leadership means that new teachers are often introduced to ineffective or wrong-headed instructional practices, diminshing any chance of improved student learning. Districts that get the most from their instructional coaches develop a comprehensive training plan for these leaders, which includes clear models for instructional intervention, training in instructional planning, and professional development resources for the coaches themselves and the teachers they serve.

This Program of Study includes onsite coaching for instructional leaders, content-focused observation protocols, and valuable online resources like the following:

• Best Practices in Instructional Coaching - Grades K-12
  Effective instructional coaches have to understand the nuances of academic content, effective instructional planning, assessing teaching/learning needs, and designing and leading professional learning. This online resource is designed to help instructional coaches master these skills and become highly effective practitioners.