Teaching How to Teach: Coaching Tips from a Former Principal

Teaching is a difficult and rewarding profession. However, no one can do it alone. If you are considering a career in teaching, or are already a teacher, it is essential that you have the proper coaching skills to be a successful educator.
As a former principal, I have learned a great deal about how to be a successful teacher. The following are some of my top coaching tips for new and veteran educators.
- Be willing to ask for help.
No one is a miracle worker. Teachers need help from their colleagues, administrators, and parents to be successful. If you are not willing to ask for help, you will not be able to make the changes that are necessary to be a successful teacher.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment.
When I was a principal, I always tried to be open to new ideas. I would experiment with new teaching methods, and I would constantly be evaluating my students and the classroom environment to see what worked and what didn’t. If you are not willing to experiment, you will not be able to find the best ways to teach your students.
- Be willing to take ownership of your teaching.
If you are not willing to take ownership of your teaching, other teachers and administrators will be less likely to support you. It is your responsibility to be the best teacher that you can be, and you should not hesitate to take on additional responsibilities if necessary.
- Be patient.
It can take a long time to become a successful teacher. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts at teaching don’t go as planned. It takes many years of experience and hard work to be a successful educator.
- Be willing to change.
If you are not willing to change, you will not be successful in the teaching profession and grow as a teacher. Teachers must be willing to experiment and change their teaching methods as they learn more about effective teaching.
These are just a few of the many important coaching tips for teachers.