Table of Contents
About the Author vii
Introduction 1
The Time Is Now 3
Consequences of Failing to Act 5
The Definition of a Coach 8
In This Book 9
Part 1 Essential Skills for Implementing the Observation and Feedback Cycle 11
1 Fair Observations in Bilingual and Dual-Language Classrooms 13
A Definition of Fair 14
The Challenges of Current Teacher Evaluation Frameworks 14
The Role of Advocacy in Coaching 17
Data Gathering 18
What to Expect From the Observation and Feedback Cycle 20
Conclusion 21
2 The Eight Goals of the Observation and Feedback Cycle 23
Goal 1 Ensure Each Encounter Helps Teachers Improve 24
Goal 2 Connect Colleagues' Successes 29
Goal 3 Provide an Outside Perspective 29
Goal 4 Use Multiple Observations to Obtain Concrete Data on Student Progress 31
Goal 5 Achieve Equity 32
Goal 6 Incorporate Culture 33
Goal 7 Gather Accurate Evidence During the Observation 33
Goal 8 Embrace Best Practices 34
Conclusion 36
Chapter 2 Action-Planning Template 37
3 Fair and Effective Feedback to Improve Teacher Practice 39
Characteristics of Fair and Effective Feedback 40
Transparency in Feedback 43
Conclusion 44
Chapter 3 Action-Planning Template 45
Part 2 The Observation and Feedback Cycle 47
4 Mindset Essentials That Frame the Foundation for the Observation and Feedback Cycle 49
Establish Trust and Confidence 50
Avoid Hidden Agendas 50
Lead by Learning 51
Become an Insider, Not an Outsider 51
Know the Right Things 52
Ensure Confidentiality 52
Know When to Use Spotlights and Supports 53
Conclusion 53
Chapter 4 Action-Planning Template 54
5 The Pre-Observation Conference 55
Establish Logistical Details 57
Define the Learning 58
Foster Communities of Language Risk Taking 60
Develop a Deep Understanding of Students 60
Determine Mastery, Structure, and Sequence; Align Meaningful Assessments; and Collect Data About Student Learning 65
Ensure Program Alignment 65
Check in With a Specialist 66
Conclusion 68
Chapter 5 Action-Planning Template 69
6 The Observation 71
Four Essential Questions for Guiding Observations 72
Six Tasks of Notice as Tools for Collecting Evidence 77
Conclusion 99
Chapter 6 Action-Planning Template 100
7 The Post-Observation Conference 101
Preparation for the Post-Observation Conference 102
Four Tasks for the Post-Observation Conference 106
Bilingual- and Dual-Language-Specific Supports 108
Plan for Success 113
Conclusion 113
Chapter 7 Action-Planning Template 116
Appendix A Bilingual and Dual-Language Programs 117
Appendix B Frequently Asked Questions 121
References and Resources 127
Index 139
