Mascot Pass
A weekly recognition tradition that keeps appreciation moving all year long.
5 min
Coaching Conversations That Count
Build teacher coaching conversations that celebrate and support.
Megan Rogers
A practical four-step guide to making every classroom visit meaningful. Use the included framework and ready-to-use phrases to give feedback that is specific, encouraging, and easy to act on. Works for five-minute pop-ins and full lesson observations alike.
Why try it
Classroom visits are one of the most direct ways to support teacher growth, but the conversation afterward is where the real magic happens. When feedback is specific, warm, and tied to a clear next step, teachers feel seen and supported rather than evaluated.
Regular coaching conversations also build the kind of trust that makes your school a place people want to stay. A consistent presence and a habit of celebrating small wins creates a culture where growth feels safe and feedback feels like support, not a grade.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Things you'll need
Observation notes from your visit
Coaching template or notebook
Optional: a follow-up scheduling tool or calendar
Instructions
1
Prep for your visit
Before you head in, pick the coaching template that fits your style. The 4 C's, Glow and Grow, Impact Cycle, Question-Driven, and Simple 1-2-3 Check-In are all included in the printable. Having a framework in hand means you can focus on the teacher, not on what to say next.
2
Celebrate the wins
Start with one or two specific, genuine observations. Name exactly what you saw and connect it to student impact. "I noticed how you set clear expectations before passing out materials; students were engaged and ready right away." Specificity builds credibility far more than a general "great job."
3
Connect practice to impact
Show the teacher how their choices affected student learning. This step reinforces what is working and helps teachers see the why behind their decisions. Try: "When you checked for understanding mid-lesson, you caught misconceptions early and were able to adjust."
4
Offer one next step
Share one clear, doable idea the teacher can try soon. Keep it focused; one well-framed suggestion lands better than a list. Frame it as an invitation: "I wonder if adding a few seconds of wait time after questions might open up even deeper responses."
5
Close the loop
End with genuine gratitude and a simple follow-up plan. Tie your thanks to something you actually observed, then set a time to reconnect. "I'd love to hear how students respond when you try that next week. Let's check in after Thursday's lesson."
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Quick-visit version
For five-minute walkthroughs, share one specific celebration in a sticky note or short email the same day.
New teacher focus
Use the five steps as a structured check-in during each of your first monthly visits with new staff to build trust early.
Peer coaching adaptation
Train instructional coaches or teacher leaders to use the same framework during peer observations and PLCs.
Digital debrief
Send your coaching notes through email or a shared doc so teachers have a written record of wins and next steps to return to.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Stay specific
Vague praise feels hollow. The more precisely you can name what you saw, the more your feedback lands.
Leader Tip #2
Share feedback promptly
Aim to follow up within 24 to 48 hours while the visit is still fresh for both of you.
Leader Tip #3
Track the small wins
Keep a quick note of what you celebrated so you can revisit it in future visits. It shows teachers you are paying attention over time.
Built by Educators, for School Leaders
This resource was created in collaboration with passionate educators and school leaders who believe in the power of intentional connection.
Megan Rogers
Teacher
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