Lynn Unser

The instructional coach is part teacher, part leader, part change agent, and part facilitator. By wearing these many hats every day, the instructional coach provides opportunities for the school to explore enhancements and innovations to current practice. As part of the school’s professional learning community, the instructional coach works directly with teacher teams and in classrooms to assist with the application of new knowledge and skills necessary to improve the academic performance of all students.

The coach’s presence in the school allows professional learning be directly tied to daily ongoing work.  Leading  teams of teachers in analyzing data about student learning,  the coach guides teams as they collaborate to make informed instructional decisions.  In addition, the coach helps teachers determine and consistently implement best practices matched to student learning needs. Over time, the work of the coach helps the school close achievement gaps and builds the skills of other teachers.  The coach supports school improvement through teacher collaboration, data analysis, focus on student learning, setting high expectations, and facilitating professional learning.