Episode Description: In this episode of C3: Connecting Coaches & Cognition, Courtney Groskin sits down with Justin Baeder, founder of The Principal Center and author, to explore the art and science of instructional leadership and feedback. Justin draws on his experiences as a teacher and principal to share practical strategies for giving feedback that actually changes teacher practice and improves school-level decision-making.
Justin discusses:
- The importance of consistent classroom observations and making feedback a normal, low-stakes practice.
- How to strike the balance between encouragement and constructive critique while promoting teacher autonomy.
- Common pitfalls in feedback conversations, including postmortem critiques that miss the opportunity to influence teacher judgment.
- How to create a culture of reflection where teachers retain ownership of their practice.
- The “sweet spot” for feedback and why not every conversation will immediately lead to change.
- A simple but powerful mindset shift: approaching every conversation with curiosity.
Justin also shares practical resources for school leaders and coaches, including his classroom walkthrough FAQ at principalcenter.com/FAQ.
Rapid Fire Insights from Justin:
- Top resource: Principalcenter.com/FAQ for classroom walkthrough advice.
- Coaching strategy to keep in your back pocket: Patience—sometimes people need more than we can give in one conversation.
- Advice for new teachers: Teaching is challenging but rewarding; the learning curve is long, but it’s worth it—don’t give up.
This episode is a must-listen for school leaders, instructional coaches, and anyone who wants to make feedback conversations more effective, actionable, and supportive of teacher growth.
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