Note to readers: I often write about leading with a coaching mindset. This post focuses on one part of the observation process, the pre-observation. Each part of the process matters, but here I’m honing in on how the pre-observation conversation can set the stage for growth, reflection, and connection as I mentor a new administrator …
What do instructional coaches do? That’s a question I’ve heard a lot. Why? Because I’ve lived it. Over the course of my career, I’ve served as a classroom teacher, reading specialist, assistant principal, and now, district leader. Each role has shaped me, but stepping into the role of instructional coach allowed me to see beyond …
Some leaders manage. Others direct. But the ones who have left a lasting imprint on me are those who coach…not once, not only when asked, but as a way of leading in all they do. This year, I had the privilege of onboarding our new literacy coach. From the outside, her transition from classroom teacher …
"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 …
In this week’s post, I’m excited to share an excerpt from the chapter titled From Teacher to Leader: An Open Roadmap of Advice from my book, The Leader Inside: Stories of Mentorship to Inspire the Leader Within. I hope you find it helpful, whether you’re embarking on a new school year, starting your career in …
Continue reading 8 Pieces of Advice for Teachers and Leaders
“The way we attend to others determines the kind of person we become.” – David Brooks As I embark on my 19th year in education and my 4th year in a formal leadership role, I remain deeply committed to remembering what it was like to be a teacher. I believe that understanding and responding to …
Continue reading Coaching Leadership: Great Questions Build Bridges
Who is the leader you wish to become, Lauren? My answer is, I wish to become the leader I always needed. This is a question I continuously ask myself as I navigate the ebbs and flows of education and leadership. These sentiments are woven throughout my book The Leader Inside: Stories of Mentorship to Inspire …
Continue reading Coaching Aspiring Leaders: A Pathway to Growth
“I believe that everyone is born with the desire to do something beyond themselves.” I recently heard this sentiment shared by entrepreneur and college professor Ed Zschau, on an episode of Tim Ferriss’ podcast. This insight reminded me that there will be moments in our lives that confirm that we are destined for things we …
Continue reading Embracing Coaching Principles in Leadership
“The best champions for change are experts in aspects of the initiative being implemented—those who combine emotional intelligence, expertise, humility, and ambition for improvement.” As I was reading the ASCD article by Jim Knight titled, The Problem with Nominal Change, it brought me to deeply reflect on the constantly evolving landscape of education. Education is …
In the realm of education, you are inundated with a wealth of information at the district, building, teacher, and student levels. The challenge lies in harnessing this vast sea of information, commonly referred to as data to leverage the expertise of your teachers and students in the spirit of enhancing student learning outcomes. Throughout your …
Continue reading Pathways to Progress Through Student Choice
Empower. Collaborate. Connect. 