Student Centered Coaching - The Moves, A Game-Changer for Educators by Diane Sweeney

In the ever-evolving field of education, teachers face numerous challenges to deliver effective instruction to a diverse group of students. Teachers continuously strive to improve their instructional practices and adapt their strategies to meet the needs of each individual student. Student Centered Coaching, developed by Diane Sweeney, offers a revolutionary approach that has proven to be a game-changer for educators.

What is Student Centered Coaching?

Student Centered Coaching is an instructional coaching model designed to support and improve teaching practices. Unlike traditional coaching models that predominantly focus on providing feedback to teachers, Student Centered Coaching places the primary focus on the needs of students. It aims to empower teachers to make informed decisions about their instructional practices based on student data and feedback.

The Moves

Diane Sweeney, the creator of Student Centered Coaching, introduces six essential coaching moves that serve as the foundation for effective coaching. These moves provide a framework for coaches to guide teachers in their pursuit of improving instruction:

Student-Centered Coaching: The Moves

by Diane Sweeney(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24486 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	189 pages

FREE

1. Building the Relationship

Coaches establish a strong relationship with teachers based on trust, open communication, and respect. This move focuses on building a partnership between the coach and the teacher, where both parties work collaboratively towards the common goal of improving student learning.

2. Pre-Conferencing

Prior to observing the teacher's instruction, coaches engage in pre-conferencing sessions to identify the desired learning outcomes, discuss specific areas of focus, and establish a plan for the observation. This move ensures that coaches and teachers are aligned in their expectations and goals.

3. Observation

During this move, the coach observes the teacher's instruction, taking notes and collecting data on student engagement, classroom management, and instructional strategies. The goal is to gather evidence to inform the post-conferencing conversation.

4. Post-Conferencing

Following the observation, coaches and teachers meet to discuss the data collected during the observation. Together, they analyze the data, reflect on the effectiveness of the lesson, and identify areas for improvement. This move promotes reflection and growth for both parties.

5. Co-Teaching

In this move, coaches collaborate with teachers in planning and delivering instruction. Coaches provide support and modeling, allowing teachers to witness effective instructional practices in action. Co-teaching helps teachers develop new strategies and build confidence in their teaching abilities.

6. Reflecting and Planning

After co-teaching or implementing new strategies, coaches and teachers engage in reflection and planning sessions. They evaluate the impact of the strategies on student learning and adjust instructional practices accordingly. This move ensures continuous improvement and ongoing professional development.

Why is Student Centered Coaching a Game-Changer?

Student Centered Coaching has transformed the way educators approach instructional coaching. It shifts the focus from merely providing feedback to teachers to a student-centered approach that empowers teachers to make data-informed decisions. Here are some reasons why Student Centered Coaching is a game-changer:

1. Personalized Support

Student Centered Coaching provides teachers with personalized support that is tailored to their specific needs and the needs of their students. Coaches help teachers identify areas for growth and provide guidance, resources, and strategies to address those areas effectively.

2. Empowerment

By focusing on student data and feedback, Student Centered Coaching empowers teachers to take ownership of their professional growth. Teachers become active participants in the coaching process, making informed decisions based on evidence to improve instruction.

3. Collaboration

Student Centered Coaching promotes collaboration between coaches and teachers. It creates a culture of shared learning, where coaches and teachers work together to achieve improved student outcomes. Coaches provide guidance and support, while teachers bring their expertise and insights.

4. Continuous Improvement

Student Centered Coaching enables teachers to engage in continuous improvement. Through reflective practices, ongoing collaboration, and the implementation of new strategies, teachers are equipped to adapt their instructional practices according to the evolving needs of their students.

Student Centered Coaching, with its six essential coaching moves, is a game-changer for educators. It revolutionizes the coaching process by placing students at the center and empowering teachers to make informed decisions based on student data. This model fosters collaboration, personalized support, and continuous improvement, ultimately leading to enhanced student learning outcomes. By implementing Student Centered Coaching, educators can transform their instructional practices and create a student-centered learning environment that promotes success for all.

Student-Centered Coaching: The Moves

by Diane Sweeney(1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	24486 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	189 pages

FREE

The essential coaching moves that every coach needs to know

Student-centered coaching is a highly-effective, evidence-based coaching model that shifts the focus from "fixing" teachers to collaborating with them to design instruction that targets student outcomes. But what does this look like in practice?

Student-Centered Coaching: The Moves shows you the day-to-day coaching moves that build powerful coaching relationships. This innovative book is the perfect companion to Diane Sweeney’s Student-Centered Coaching: A Guide for K-8 Coaches and Principals and Student-Centered Coaching at the Secondary Level. Readers will find:

• Coaching moves that can be used before, during, and after lessons

• An abundance of field-tested tools and practices that can be put to immediate use

• Original video clips that depict and unpack key moves

• Richly detailed anecdotes from practicing coaches that provide multiple access points and strategies

Written for coaches who work with teachers in all K-12 content areas, Student-Centered Coaching: The Moves will help coaches support teacher development, foster a culture of learning, and improve student achievement. 

"This book contains many hands-on techniques that can serve coaches well in working with teachers (and students). It addresses a lot of the common pitfalls that occur when learning to be a coach. The book serves as a great tool for experienced coaches as well as those just entering into the position."

—Ann M. Lorey, Common Core Coach and Science Department Instructional Supervisor

Palo Alto Unified School District, CA