3 Important Lessons I’ve Learned as a First-Year Instructional Coach

Jeremy RinkelBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: This post shares important lessons learned as a first-year instructional coach. Being a good listener shows that you care. Teachers are all at different places emotionally, technologically, and with their teaching styles. It’s important to get to know each teacher and meet them where they are at. Give yourself grace in knowing that some days will be tougher than … Read More

Redefining Team-Teaching

Kristen NanBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better

TL;DR: In order for students to thrive in meeting their fullest potential, teachers need to create a connection by being consistent, constant, and purposeful. In order to be consistent, teachers need to be available through regular communication. Find a consistent form that works for you and your community like a class blog, Microsoft Teams, email, or other platforms. Students need … Read More

Say Their Names: Holding Space for Student Identity

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better

TL;DR: Names should be celebrated and said correctly by teachers as a means of retaining student dignity and identity. Students don’t need nicknames; they need our effort and allyship. My parents named me Caitlin, which was also the most popular feminine given name of my birth year. My mom always made sure to point out that she spelled it the … Read More

The Time is NOW to Lead with Love

Brad HughesBlog, Connect Better, Engage Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Love all members of your community and have the courage to tell them you love them. Leading with love is good for all members of the community including yourself. It provides benefits like less worry, fear, and stress, and increased feelings of support, safety, and comfort. Is it possible to love the people you lead? It absolutely is. You … Read More

Posting in a Pandemic

Teach Better TeamBlog, Connect Better, Lead Better

TL;DR: Positivity is important when communicating with families; however, in order to stay authentic, one should not be excessively positive. Tell the whole story, be honest and vulnerable, and prepare for a two-way dialogue when communicating with stakeholders. Posting in a Pandemic: Excessive Positivity Isn’t Always Authentic Leaders inspire vision and confidence in their organization, and schools are no different. … Read More