University of Minnesota - Center for Reading Research
R350 Vo-Tech Ed. Building, 1954 Buford Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55108 USA
Email: MCRR@umn.edu, Tel: 612-624-9147, Fax: 612-624-8716

Tested Techniques for Coaching to Foster Self-Reflection on and Change in Reading Instruction

Description:

Considering HOW we teach is as important as considering WHAT we teach. Coaching conversations encourage reflection on teaching practices by giving teachers time to collaborate with a literacy coach or colleague to further refine their reading instruction. The greatest potential for reflective practice to improve schools lies within the collective inquiry, thinking, learning, understanding, and acting that result from school-wide engagement (York-Barr, Sommers, Ghere, & Montie, 2006).

This workshop series will provide opportunities to learn about how effective coaching conversations will promote teacher reflection and change in instructional practice.

This topic is presented over a period of four sessions in order to provide time for participants to implement and reflect upon the information and strategies presented between sessions.

Key Features:

Part I: (offered during the 2009-2010 school year)

  • Creating and sustaining a culture of collaboration
  • Building and sustaining trust
  • Facilitating difficult conversations
  • Working with reluctant teachers
  • Goal setting for instructional improvement
  • Using data to inform instruction
  • Finding TIME for Collaboration and Reflection

Part II: (offered during the 2010-2011 school year –more details to follow)

  • Implementing a Skillful Peer Coaching Program

Target Audience:

Principals, K-6 Classroom Teachers, Literacy Coaches, Reading Specialist, Title I Teachers, Special Education Teachers

Schools must commit to sending a team of 2-3 teacher leaders AND a principal or literacy leader to participate in the workshop.

Cost:

Each workshop topic will be presented in a series of four full-day sessions. Cost per workshop topic will be $4,500 for a team of three or four people per school. This cost includes support for implementation via phone conference once a month between sessions. In addition, follow-up site visits are available at an additional cost.

Additional Cost Per Person (beyond 4) is $800.00
Lunch not included.

Dates:

August 21, 2009

November 6, 2009

February 5, 2010

April 9, 2010

Time:

9:00-2:00

Location:

Minnesota Center for Reading Research, University of MN, St. Paul Campus
Registration: Please submit registration form by August 1, 2009.