| Responses from the January 2015 PLO |
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"Thank you and the PIIC team for orchestrating such a great opportunity for coaches from around PA to come together, collaborate, network and learn. I had a great experience there and look forward to coming again in May." "Every time I have the privilege of attending a PLO, I am able to see my role as a change agent in my district having more value. Being a part of something as powerful and meaningful as PIIC has allowed me to see the strength in questioning and coaching. Thank you for making this possible!" "The mood and rapport was outstanding. PIIC individuals truly have a sense of pride, camaraderie, and persistence to educate and support growth in learning." "What an amazing opportunity to learn alongside such positive and dedicated educators!" "PIIC feels like a community. Sharing with the professionals that have so much dedication and passion for education is refreshing. I did not hear any negatives about their jobs, just questions and answers to takle the challenges they are experiencing in their work." "Thank you for the opportunity to be supported, encouraged, and challenged as an instructional coach. This is without a doubt the best and most powerful professional learning experience I have had as an educator. I have already begun implementing and utilizing some of the things I learned at the conference." "I really liked the focus on the TDA. It was refreshing to hear that we should do close reading and text dependent questioning because it's what's best for kids -- not just because it is what they will have to do on the PSSA." "I have gained so many more ideas and resources to be a successful coach. Talking and learning from other coaches is invaluable. I think my questioning process will improve and move to a more natural conversation with teachers." "Coaches are an important piece of our school district vision for professional development. They are able to help with developing best practices in the classrooms thereby increasing student achievement." "Building relationships with those you're working with is first and foremost. I've always known that, but I realized that even more during this week. Reaching out to other coaches in PIIC has been an invaluable experience for me. I’m so glad that I have had the chance to build new relationships and network." "I loved how open and welcoming everyone was. I have never been to a conference where everyone has been so genuinely helpful. Everyone there was looking for ways to improve their coaching and wanted to help others as well." "Our jobs in this day and age are invaluable. These PLOs are providing us with the training that might not be available in any other venue. I felt a strong empowerment to allow me to go into a teacher's room and make a difference with my toolbox." "The biggest take away for me was that we have an entire network of support through PIIC. Learning is truly social and I learned a great deal about coaching from the collaborative atmosphere and table talks." "The session about questioning was a great reminder of the real work we as coaches and mentors should be doing with our colleagues. Content and initiatives will change, but effective coaching practices remain the same and must continue to be emphasized during PLOs and local coaches' meetings." "I liked the chance to talk with other coaches. The answer truly is in the room, and I really loved the opportunity to hear what other districts are doing around the state. I also liked how it was organized. The sessions were just long enough and allowed for a lot of interaction. Lastly, I should not neglect the hospitality - the food, the accommodations. I realize there were many logistics and behind-the-scenes work to organize this conference. I appreciate the opportunity to be an attendee and contributor." |
