Once the vertical whiteboards are up, how do we make learning stick? As one math coach learned, the “close” is where the magic happens. This session unveils how professional development and coaching helps teachers master lesson synthesis for all students. We will dive into how modeling and co-teaching “closing” strategies impact student learning. Through “in the moment” coaching, we can make learning accessible to more students.
We will give participants a map and strategies for how they can coach/support math teachers in instructional change towards student-centered BTC-inspired instruction, by thin slicing change into a series of smaller instructional shifts. We will talk about the challenges and needs for support that teachers will have with each shift and ways in which coaches can provide those supports.
Instructional leaders will leave with a framework/mental model for building capacity for whole departments to begin the transition to a thinking classroom instructional model.
Session Abstract: We tell students that learning happens when we think, yet we force teachers into sit-and-get PD that evaporates within 48 hours. It’s time to de-front the faculty meeting/professional learning sessions. In this active session, Instructional Coaches and Leaders will experience the Vertical Menu. A framework that combines Vertical Non-Permanent Surfaces (VNPS) with the science of Spaced Retrieval. You will learn to replace slide decks with Vertical Choice Menus that allow staff to self-select their learning pathway (differentiation) while engaging in active recall protocols that guarantee the learning sticks long after the session ends. By the end of this session, participants will:Experience the Vertical Menu: Participate in a differentiated professional learning simulation using VNPS to solve problems relevant to their specific professional mindset.Master 3 Retrieval Protocols: Learn three distinct, low-prep routines (Flashback 2, Brain Dump, Trojan Horse) to ensure previous PD content is constantly reactivated and retained.Design for Adult Retention: Walk away with a digital coaching starter pack that converts passive presentations into active, vertical retention tasks.
