Lead Like a Coach
Photo by Kevin Maillefer on Unsplash
I am part of a family of coaches. My earliest memories in athletics include going to summer basketball camps during my elementary school years. My grandfather, a former high school basketball coach, would stop over and stand on the sidelines while we scrimmaged or drilled. I can still hear the squeak of rubber soles against hardwood as we played while he looked from afar. My memory of him does not include a lot of talk about basketball; for him, it was more a presence and quiet observation.
From there I have had my step-father serve as an assistant coach during junior high basketball. My father-in-law is also a former high school basketball coach; my brother-in-law and sister-in-law also excelled in coaching in this sport. It shouldn't surprise that I too became a coach once able. Throughout my college career, I would come home during the summers to lead summer recreation programs including Little League and girls' softball.
As a newly minted teacher, I quickly sought out the opportunity to coach junior high basketball. One story I like to share from that time is that when I received a coaching stipend one year, I took that check, deposited it in my bank account, and then bought a ring that I would later offer to my girlfriend. (In case you're wondering - she said yes.)
My career led to becoming an athletic director as part of my role as an assistant principal at a junior high school. I was now a coach for coaches, in a sense. While I couldn't be as involved in the day-to-day coaching experience, I gained a broader perspective about what characteristics an excellent coach might embody.
These memories have spurred reflection about what not only makes a great coach but also how these qualities also make them great leaders. These reflections have raised awareness for me about how my own position as a school principal can "take a coaching stance" when working with faculty. At any rate, here is a working list that I have developed. I see these attributes as applicable to anyone in a coaching role within a school: instructional coach, teacher-leader, and a principal.
Make goals clear and attainable for the work
Maintain high expectations for performance
Develop beliefs, commitments, and values with a team
Able to demonstrate new skills and strategies
Celebrate people's efforts and successes
Foster trust and relationships with team members
Create an environment that is conducive for innovation and independence
Provide support through instructional coaching, online PD, study groups, etc.
Build collective responsibility and empower others to lead
Communicate when expectations are not being met
Leading like a coach in a school is complex. I don't know if any one person can distill all of the qualities to specific criteria. So what are your thoughts? Would you add (or subtract) from this list? I am truly interested; please share in the comments.