This week we learned a few must-have attributes of ICs working remotely, why educators should focus on relationships with their students, one coach's four guiding principles for coaching, and more. Enjoy! 😀

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4 Key Mindsets for Coaching Remotely

Coaching and leading remotely require a shift in the way we think and carry out our daily routines. Luckily, Stephanie Affinito was willing to share some of her must-have attributes of ICs working from afar.

" We are teaching and coaching under such unprecedented circumstances that we have to we get to (not have to!) coach and lead in ways we have never tried before. . . . The lessons we learn each day open up new possibilities for coaching when we return to school, a gift to appreciate as we search for gratitude in these challenging times."

Relationships First

Leslie Rader reflects on the impact that some students have had on her and why she believes educators should refocus on relationships with students.

"It's in these unexpected moments of change that we realize what's really important. . . . I encourage you to let these experiences during this pandemic continue to refocus you on what really matters—relationships. It is through relationships that you will make the most lasting differences in the lives of others."

Bringing Virtual Classrooms to Life

Melanie Meehan encourages educators to find ways to make learning more interactive remotely.

" One possible way to help students is by providing systems and routines that are reminiscent of classrooms. . . . You could keep a list of your students and tally who you've addressed as you're recording lessons, and if you are teaching other people's classes, you could even add those students to the mix. It's tricky, yes, but not impossible, and students will listen more closely if they think they might hear a name."

Be a Better Coach Now

Vicki Collet relays her four guiding principles of coaching.

"Coaches are responsible for supporting and encouraging the teachers they work with. . . . As coaches communicate openly, expect and respond consistently, encourage problem solving, and validate both the effort and the results, teachers will feel sustained and strengthened."

PD with Technology

Micah Castelo shares how technology and the use of the 4 Cs of learning—critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and curiosity—can help in professional learning as well.

" Getting effective training in educational technology is still a challenge for many teachers, according to a PwC report. In that report, 79 percent of 2,000 teachers surveyed said they wanted more professional development opportunities, and 81 percent said they needed more curriculum plans or course materials. . . . Teaching those skills with technology requires the active support and readiness of school leaders and teachers."

My Distance Learning

Chrissy Beltran overviews some instructional strategies and talks about the role a coach plays in the learning process for teachers.

"To start, you want to choose your top five high impact strategies. These strategies need to be engaging, purposeful, and some should be hands-on. The purpose of strategies is to give the students a tool to help them learn better across the content and grade levels. Therefore, by teaching strategies to teachers, you are helping to foster better learning in the classroom. . . . Once teachers are rolling, you want to give credit where credit is due."

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