Dr. Courtney Plotts is a dynamic keynote speaker, author and professor. Dr. Plotts is the National Chair of the Council For At-Risk Student Education and Professional Standards, the country’s only organization that provides standards for working with marginalized and nontraditional students in Kindergarten to college. Her role as National Chair includes training, consulting, and research. Her subject matter expertise has … Read More
Supporting New Teachers
TL;DR: Supporting new teachers is essential during this time when everyone feels like a new teacher. Some of the best support new teachers can get is from other teachers or team members. When I Was a New Teacher I have been teaching for 11 years. During my first year of teaching, I wanted to do everything perfectly. In fact, I … Read More
Confidence: The How and Why
TL;DR: The pandemic has caused many veteran teachers to feel like they are experiencing their first year all over again. Confidence soars when you are prepared and when you surround yourself with people who create a safe space for you to take risks. Risk-taking and asking for help will lead to gaining the confidence you seek. We’ve all heard the phrase, “fake … Read More
3 Important Lessons I’ve Learned as a First-Year Instructional Coach
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
They Don’t Want Your Answers; They Want Your Support
TL;DR: As a school leader, those you serve don’t just want your answers, they want your support. Show your support by being a part of the school, delegating to empower, and celebrating risks. “They” don’t really need you to tell them what to do. “They” don’t even really need your permission. Who is “they”? They are the people you are … Read More
