Time Flies When You're an Instructional Tech Coach

Is that possible? Has a month flown by already? This school year has moved at an incredible pace. Consequently, my step count has exponentially increased as I walk, or in some cases run, the halls. A month of embracing the role of an instructional tech coach (and teacher of three classes) has passed, and I still find myself chasing the idea of a balanced life and a cleared to-do list. Even after years of coaching a highly demanding competitive activity, by Friday afternoons, I have reached an exhaustion level that I did not realize I could feel, and yet, I am fulfilled in ways I did not know possible.

While my plate is now piled with meetings, coaching sessions, planning professional development, and solving unforeseen complications or headaches that arise in the tech realm, I leave school feeling accomplished. This experience has been filled with rewarding moments - teachers sharing their successes, time to engage in collaborative moments, and thought-provoking conversations; I am inspired. I am surrounded by passionate and intelligent teachers creating amazing opportunities for their students and now have the time to witness people inspiring students in their elements. I also have opportunities to solve problems, which makes each day unique and exciting.

At least three times a week (or day), I receive a quick email from a teacher asking where I am and if I can come to their rooms now - or five minutes ago. With problems ranging from projectors past their prime and applications like Pear Deck not working, I am happy to come running to talk through the obstacles they face or find a person who can provide a solution. During the afternoons, I now have time to ask questions. I am also able to consider the "How might we..." moments with teachers that often are placed at the bottom of especially long to-do lists.

How might we create learning more engaging? How might we make our jobs more efficient and effective through careful planning and collaboration with others? In addition to conversations in the faculty office, I have started walking into open doors and participating in awe-inspiring classes that I see having fun when I am on one of my school adventures. Exploring the school and becoming a part of several classroom environments each day is motivating and encouraging. Each teacher has his or her style and brings their love of their craft to their classrooms. As someone who is fortunate enough to participate in many different areas, I now find myself questioning my actions. Why do we implement instructional methods? Why do we choose to design our classroom curriculum and even our classroom spaces in the way that we do? How do all of these actions impact our students? 

While I realize that I am still growing in the role of an instructional tech coach, I have sincerely learned that listening and sharing brings out the best in all of us. Talking through ideas and embracing other people's perspectives, especially those who teach in disciplines that differ from our own, can challenge us all to rethink content delivery while building relationships within the greater school community. 

Teaching is a challenging and exhausting job, but when we take time to appreciate and celebrate each other, we can recharge our emotional batteries. We also have more time to recognize students' needs and support learning in all disciplines within our school. While we are often feeling crunched for time, it is critical to remember that when we give ourselves to each moment and allow ourselves to be present with each other, our time is exponentially more valuable and meaningful. 

I am grateful for all those who have allowed me to participate in all the incredible experiences they are creating for their students. Being small in stature, I have the benefit a blending into the background as I sit in a previously empty student desk. At times, I can surprise a teacher when we make eye contact after having been in his or her room for a few minutes sitting amazed at their lessons or activities. By observing my colleagues at their most creative and innovative, I continue to learn that I have much to learn. With two ears and one mouth, I will continue to listen carefully, immerse myself into each moment, and celebrate the greatness I now have the time to experience firsthand. Good coaching involves supporting, celebrating, and listening. Here's to a year of observing, collaborating, meeting, planning, and making countless discovers along the way.