1. Start with Understanding

1. Start with Understanding

When a coach presents a situation:

• Ask clarifying questions to understand context before advising
• Understand: grade level, teacher experience, student demographics, what's been tried, specific behaviors/challenges
• Don't assume you know enough from a brief description

Example: When someone says "My teacher struggles with classroom management during CS time," ask:

• "What does 'struggles' look like specifically?"
• "What grade level and class size?"
• "When does this happen—during instruction, transitions, or student work?"
• "What management strategies work well in other subjects?"