Instructional Coach Entry Plan: First 30 Days on the Job
If you don’t have an entry plan going into your role as an instructional coach then the first thirty days on the job can be taxing. This post will provide a roadmap for those who have recently been hired as an instructional coach, are switching campuses or are looking for a stronger way to begin the year.
What is an entry plan?
An entry plan outlines the tasks and duties that will be completed during a certain time period- usually a 30, 60 or 90 day plan. Administrators might delegate a few tasks for you to complete, but generally you as a teacher leader will decide what and how to spend your time.
Creating a plan maximizes your time on campus, working on the tasks that matter most, and showcasing your leadership skills and knowledge base. Administrators will feel rest assured that you have things handled, giving you time and space to work productively.
Why have an entry plan?
Creating an entry plan creates a smooth transition into the school year for all. Without a clear plan of action, an instructional coach can waste a lot of time on the job waiting for directives from administration. The Back-to-School time can be extremely overwhelming, so jumping into action will alleviate some stress for all stakeholders. Most importantly, having a big picture view of what to accomplish allows you to work backwards to create a daily to-do list of tasks to complete.
What is included in an entry plan?
An entry plan often includes a calendar of planned tasks as well as a description of what the task is and how it will be carried out. This mimics both a pacing calendar and lesson plan that teachers create. Many of the tasks on the list take multiple days or weeks to accomplish, so consulting the calendar while working on tasks simultaneously is suggested.
Common tasks include: creating professional development sessions, developing an onboarding system for new staff, designing a coaching space, developing working relationships with community members that might become partners for the school, etc.
Note- Before implementing an entry plan, instructional coaches should get their plan approved by an administrator. Many school sites have unique needs that could alter what tasks appear in an entry plan. Plus, there might be additional tasks to add, some to eliminate or new deadlines to consider.
Next Steps for Instructional Coaches
If you are starting from scratch (or just want ideas), then grab my First 30-Day Implementation Plan. This entry plan shares common tasks for instructional coaches to plan and execute during their first month on the job, beginning with tasks prior to school starting and continuing during the first few weeks of school being in session. It includes 30+ task descriptions, an overview 30 day calendar of tasks, note taking space and various planning pages to design your own entry plan.
Speaking of scratch, if you are an instructional coach without a clear support plan, grab my Coaching Forms Bundle of over 100+ printable, digital and editable forms, including the 30 day implementation plan!
GO BE GREAT!
What tasks would you add to your first thirty days on the job?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.