RFP 24-027 Professional Development for Instructional Coaches

Purpose:The Bridgeton Public School District is accepting proposals from qualified consultants to provide research based ongoing, embedded professional development to instructional coaches, covering essential knowledge and skills needed to support teachers effectively in improving student learning outcomes. The vendor should have an established framework, utilized with Instructional Coaches, statewide and or nationally, for example, transformational and practice-based coaching. The selected consultant will work with instructional coaches for Pk – 8 grade levels.Scope of Service: The selected consultant shall work with the district to provide professional development on the following:Introduction to Instructional Coaching:•    Understand the role and responsibilities of instructional coaches.•    Explore the goals and objectives of instructional coaching.•    Learn about the principles and theories underlying effective instructional coaching and adult learning theories.Building Relationships and Communication Skills:•    Develop strategies for building trust and rapport with teachers.•    Enhance communication skills, including active listening and effective questioning techniques.•    Learn techniques for providing constructive feedback and fostering a collaborative learning environment.Data Analysis and Assessment:•    Understand how to collect, analyze, and interpret various types of data (e.g., student achievement data, classroom observation data).•    Learn to use data to identify instructional strengths and areas for growth.•    Explore strategies for using assessment data to inform instructional decision-making and goal setting.Instructional Strategies and Differentiation:•    Addresses the diverse needs of coaches based on their experience levels and the specific needs of the schools they serve.•    Learn how to differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of students.•    Understand how to support teachers in implementing effective instructional strategies in their classrooms.Content-Specific Coaching:•    Deepen knowledge and expertise in specific content areas (e.g., literacy, mathematics, science, early childhood).•    Explore content-specific instructional strategies and resources.•    Learn how to support teachers in aligning instruction with content standards and curriculum frameworks. Coaching for Equity and Inclusion:•    Understand the importance of equity and cultural responsiveness in instructional coaching.•    Explore strategies for promoting equity and inclusion in teaching practices and classroom environments.•    Learn how to address biases and create culturally responsive instructional experiences for all students. Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and Collaboration:•    Understand the role of PLCs in supporting teacher collaboration and professional growth.•    Learn how to facilitate effective PLC meetings and discussions.•    Explore strategies for promoting a culture of collaboration and shared learning among teachers.Evaluation and Assessment of Coaching Impact:•    Understand methods for evaluating the impact of instructional coaching on teacher practice and student outcomes.•    Learn how to collect and analyze data to assess coaching effectiveness.•    Explore strategies for using evaluation findings to inform program improvement and decision-making.The Professional Development days will be a combination of virtual and in-person trainings. This professional development should be in the form of an institute of learning to begin May 2024 – June 2025 that includes:1.    9 days of on-site training; (3 days in May, 3 days in June, 3 days in July) to run consecutively. 2.    Additional days during the school year as an option.