Academic coaches reflect on their work for Coaches Day

October 6, 2021 was National Coaches Day, and while we tend ot think of coaches on the athletic field, Garfield Re-2 had many Academic Coaches that are integral to the support of teachers and students every day.

“Our academic coaches are the go to people for teachers. They are always available and willing to jump in at a moments notice. I appreciate how they support our teachers with instruction, intervention, and even just in life. Even though they don't have a specific classroom, they are guiding students everyday by creating opportunities for students to thrive,” said Jana Price, Principal of Kathryn Senor Elementary.

“They are the glue that holds our school together,” added Lancie Elder, Assistant Principal at Highland Elementary and a former academic coach. “They support our teachers in so many ways and when teachers grow and learn and become better at their craft, that leads to student learning and growth.

Most schools in Garfield Re-2 have a dedicated academic coach. In some cases, building administrators take on some of the roles. 

Tara Dewitte, academic coach at Kathryn Senor Elementary said she never really knows what her day will look like.

“I support teachers in looking at their student’s data so we can determine what our lesson design should be, and how we should teach them. We need to know what they know, and what they don’t know so we can develop lessons that meet each student where they are,” she explained. 

She added that data driven instruction is so important because students come in with different exposures, knowledge and skills.

Her support for teachers does not stop at data, however. 

“As an academic coach, I support teachers with anything else they may need. At some times of the year they need more than academic support at others, they may need emotional support,” she added.

National Coaches Day is an excellent he academic coaches in Garfield Re-2 are integral to the support of teachers and students.