Principles of School Coaching

This graduate-level course is designed to equip educators with evidence-based coaching strategies to improve classroom instruction and build teachers' content knowledge and skill set. Emphasis is placed on key components of instructional coaching, including pre-conferencing, trust-building, observation and feedback loops, reflection, group conferencing, collaborative planning, and action steps.

Participants will be introduced to conceptual frameworks that support effective coaching practices and examine how coaching can support the implementation of the Pennsylvania Academic Standards. Topics covered will include co-teaching strategies, integrating demonstration lessons, facilitating pre- and post-visit focus, group discussions, reflective practices, and problem-solving.

Through a combination of theoretical and practical approaches, participants will learn how to build trusting relationships with teachers and how to effectively support their professional growth through coaching. The course will also provide opportunities for participants to develop and refine their coaching skills and strategies, including goal setting, questioning techniques, and feedback methods.

As part of the course requirements, participants will actively implement the course content through 10 hours of embedded practicum. This will allow them to apply their learning in real-world settings and receive feedback and guidance from instructors and peers.

Overall, this course is ideal for educators who want to become effective instructional coaches and build capacity through instructional leadership. By the end of the course, participants will have a deep understanding of coaching principles and strategies and be able to apply them to support teachers' professional growth and improve classroom instruction.