In education, embodying a coaching mindset is understanding that growth isn’t about giving answers, it’s about creating space for discovery. A coaching mindset is grounded in the belief that educators hold the capacity to grow, and our role is to support that growth through trust, curiosity, and intentional presence. It’s about asking, not telling. Walking …
Throughout the trajectory of my career, nearly two decades spanning classroom teacher, literacy specialist, instructional coach, building leader, and now district leader, I’ve experienced just about every form of professional development. I’ve devoured books, tuned into countless podcasts, attended energizing conferences, and participated in more professional learning experiences than I can count. But if I’ve …
This week, I found myself in some important conversations with administrators, with teachers, and honestly, with myself. These weren’t just check-in conversations or progress updates. They were real. They circled us back to the relationships we’ve built and reminded us of our shared why: we are a team, here to make teaching and learning better …
Continue reading Coaching and Leading with Curiosity, Courage, and Care
The paths we walk present us with a collection of choices, some small, others life-changing. Each one opens the door for us to summon the momentum within ourselves, take action, and embrace the reality that growth and comfort cannot coexist. I share this sentiment in my book, The Leader Inside because it’s a truth I’ve …
As educators, we are constantly evolving. We are learning, unlearning, and relearning to meet the needs of our students and the ever-changing landscape of education. The best professional growth doesn’t happen in isolation; it happens when we engage with and think about new ideas, challenge our thinking, and apply what we learn in meaningful ways. …
Continue reading Four Books Shaping My Thinking (and Why They Matter in Education)
This week felt like a whirlwind. Stepping into the days after a winter holiday break, my time was filled with important things - observations, professional learning days, community events, and the countless day-to-day interactions that bring both celebrations and some challenges. On top of that, my family obligations had me racing from one place to …
Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about this: What truly keeps students engaged in learning? Not just busy, not just compliant, but deeply engaged - curious, questioning, and thinking beyond the task right in front of them. Have you ever stopped to wonder the same? To me, the question feels even more vital in an …
Continue reading 4 Ideas to Keep Students Engaged and Thinking in an AI-Driven World
"If you embrace the idea of being a continuous learner, you will always be relevant. Once you think you are the expert in the room is the moment the world might start passing you by.” - George Couros One of the most important facets of my role is to thoughtfully plan professional learning experiences for …
Rolling Up Your Sleeves - Series Part 1 “How you walk into a room matters,” is a sentiment Dr. Mary Hemphill shared at this week’s FETC conference. As I listened to her powerful words, I was reminded that leadership isn't just about presence, it’s about intention. Whether you’re leading a team, coaching a colleague, or …
Every person deserves the opportunity to thrive in the learning ecosystems designed to meet their needs every day. These spaces should inspire and empower, creating opportunities for growth for every learner. But thriving isn’t just about the systems we design—it’s about the mindset we bring. What does it truly mean to thrive in our learning …
Empower. Collaborate. Connect. 