Elena Aguilar recommends writing a Coaching Manifesto. I wrote mine several years ago, using Aguilar’s process and example as models. I’ve revised it over time and am relying on it as a resource now as I embark on coaching cycles at my school. In this post I want to share my manifesto and thank Aguilar for showing how valuable it is to write, and have, a manifesto.
Coaching Manifesto
Kathy Collier
“Coaching is the art of creating an environment, through conversation and a way of being,
that facilitates the process by which a person can move
toward desired goals in a fulfilling manner.” ~ Tim Gallwey
Why is coaching important?
- Coaching increases teacher empowerment, efficacy, agency, and engagement.
- Being listened to and heard creates a sense of respect and value.
- Coaching is the form of professional learning that has the highest impact on student achievement, especially equity. Coaches personalize learning.
- Coaching can transform people, schools, society.
“Feedback is the energy source of goal accomplishment,
growth, and self-renewal.” ~ Hattie
- Everything is connected. Each individual is connected to the system. We all share responsibility for all learners. Every action ripples in and out, impacting and being impacted by the whole.
- Greatness is in each of us. Each individual has strengths, passions, and goals. We grow when we work towards our goals, starting right where we are and moving forward.
- Relationship. The work of an educator is about building strong relationships built on trust, respect, and empathy, recognizing that each of us has a story, a voice.
- Understanding is created through words. Listening is as important as, often more important than, speaking. When we listen, we suspend judgement to truly understand and learn. When we speak, we choose our words carefully to convey our meaning precisely.
- Be here now. We respect each other by being all in, by being present with quality attention.
- Transformation takes time. Intention, collaboration, reflection, and vision lead to transformation. “Every action on the journey to transformation must be infused with kindness, fairness, and compassion.” ~ Aguilar
- Equity. Every action should be taken with social justice and the heart of the learner as the focus.
will * skill * knowledge * capacity * emotional intelligence
“All who wish to continually improve their craft — be they teachers,
entrepreneurs, athletes, ballerinas, musicians, auto mechanics, or potters —
never lose the need to be coached.” ~ Costa & Garmston
Resource:
The Art of Coaching, Elena Aguilar