The Rewards of Coaching/Mentoring

One of the greatest parts of being an administrator or technology coach is the mentoring/coaching experience itself. Helping another person grow professionally is rewarding. Every time I provided in class support or co-planning to a colleague or offered a PD session in the Fish Bowl, I left the session feeling wonderful for being able to help someone else improve. When I have discussions about teaching, learning, or student matters with a colleague, it also makes me feel good, because it enhances both of our knowledge and abilities. Not enough time is built into the school day or calendar for these types of activities, I'm afraid. I know in Japanese schools a good portion of the day is spent in collaboration with colleagues. I imagine that it must be very rewarding to spend a part of every day working on improving your skill as a teacher or administrator.