Join me and Jessica Wise as we discuss the pivotal concept of "contracting" within instructional coaching. Contracting is that crucial initial dialogue where we lay the groundwork for our coaching relationship, setting clear expectations and defining our roles.

In this episode, Jessica and I walk through a comprehensive checklist for effective contracting. We underscore its vital role in nurturing trust and fostering collaboration.

We also share our thoughts on maintaining confidentiality, the power of silence, and the importance of being adaptable during coaching sessions. This episode is packed with practical strategies designed to help coaches refine their practice and cultivate strong, trusting relationships with the educators they support.

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Learn more at:

www.instructionalcoaching.com

Download the Contracting Checklist:

https://www.instructionalcoaching.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Contracting-Checklist-Handout_2025-1.pdf

This week I have the opportunity to sit down with TLC 2025 keynote speaker Juliana Urtubey, the 2021 National Teacher of the Year, to explore what it really means to create schools where joy and justice aren’t just ideas — they’re lived experiences.

Juliana’s story is compelling. As a bilingual, first-generation immigrant, her journey into education has been deeply personal, and that lived experience shows up in every part of her practice.

Throughout our conversation, Juliana talks about how her background has shaped not only how she teaches, but why she teaches. She emphasizes the central role of community and reflection — two elements we know are foundational for authentic learning and growth. Her "Choice and Just Framework" is all about reimagining the classroom as a space for collaboration rather than compliance, where students are seen, heard, and valued.

What I found especially powerful is Juliana’s unwavering belief that classrooms can be places of both rigor and joy — that justice and belonging aren’t add-ons, but essential.

If you’re an educator looking to build inclusive, affirming environments where every student’s strengths are honored, this conversation offers not just inspiration, but real insights you can act on.

Thank you for being a part of our community.

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Learn more about TLC 2025:

https://shorturl.at/E9wTa

Learn more about the Virtual Institute:

https://shorturl.at/dXnK6

In this episode of Coaching Conversations, I sit down with instructional coach Meg Groseclose as she shares her journey into coaching and her work with Rachel, a third-year teacher. Together, they embarked on a coaching cycle focused on improving student engagement and achievement. Starting with a baseline of 64% comprehension, they set an ambitious goal of 90%. Through strategies like cooperative learning and data-driven adjustments, they made remarkable progress, reaching 88% comprehension.

This conversation highlights the power of collaboration, adaptability, and data in instructional coaching. It’s a perfect example of how coaching can drive real, meaningful change in both teaching and student outcomes.

Thank you for being a part of our community.

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• Stay Connected: Follow our podcast for more episodes packed with insights and inspiration.

Learn more about Using AI in Instructional Coaching: Best Practices & Tools

https://www.instructionalcoaching.com/workshop/using-ai-in-instructional-coaching-best-practices-tools/