Who I Am: The Inner Foundation

1. Beliefs That Drive Change
   Empower teachers by fostering the idea that true change comes from within. Focus on student-centered, powerful goals that inspire real impact.
2. Coaching Skills
   Master the art of listening and asking insightful questions. Like improv, effective coaching is all about being present and responsive.
3. Leadership
   Lead by example—both in self-care and in guiding others. Balance ambition with humility to inspire and support teacher growth.

What I Do & Where I Work: The Operational Framework

4. The Coaching Cycle (Impact Cycle)
   Use a structured process: assess current reality, set meaningful goals, and plan actionable strategies. This ensures every conversation is purposeful.
5. Data Gathering
   Leverage data to clarify starting points and monitor progress. Evidence of improvement builds hope and reinforces teacher agency.
6. Instructional Playbook
   Maintain a toolkit of high-impact strategies. Continually refine these practices to offer teachers reliable, effective methods for achieving their goals.
7. Supportive Environment & Role Clarity
   Create a collaborative culture where roles are well-defined. Consistent principles between coaches and school leadership, along with clear policies (like confidentiality), are essential for trust and success.

By integrating these seven factors, schools can build a coaching program that not only nurtures teacher development but also drives lasting improvements in student outcomes. Think of it as building a seven-legged chair—each leg is essential for stability and strength in your educational community.

If you're interested in learning more, you can watch the full video of Jim Knight's guest appearance at KickUp Labs here.