In this Coaching Conversation, Michelle chats with Hannah Irion-Frake, a first-year literacy coach who shares her inspiring journey from classroom teacher to instructional coach. They discuss the challenges and rewards of her new role, how her background prepared her, and the importance of building trust with teachers. Hannah offers valuable insights for coaches just starting out, including tips for managing time, supporting teachers, and using data to drive instruction. Whether you're new to coaching or simply interested in the perspective of a first-year coach, this episode is packed with relatable and practical advice.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What inspired Hannah to transition from a third-grade teacher to a literacy coach.
• How her experience as a LETRS facilitator and former balanced literacy teacher prepared her for her new role.
• The strategies she uses to build relationships with teachers and establish trust.
• Some of the biggest challenges she has faced in her first few months, including time management and balancing responsibilities.
• The importance of data-driven instruction and the power of early intervention for students.
• Coaching resources and tools that have been instrumental in Hannah's first year.

Key Takeaways:

1. Building Relationships: Establishing trust with teachers is key. Be approachable, collaborative, and present in the classroom to support teachers.
2. Data-Driven Instruction: Effective literacy coaching involves using data to tailor instruction and interventions for students in need.
3. Time Management: Balancing coaching responsibilities requires a solid organizational system and the ability to set realistic goals.

Resources Mentioned:

• Download Hannah’s FREE Lesson Planning Templates 
• LETRS Training
• 95 Percent Group's Top 10 Tools
• Stephanie Stollar’s Reading Science Academy
• The Reading League
• International Dyslexia Association
• Acadience Learning: Professional Development

Must-Have Tools for Literacy Coaches:

1. Organizational System: Find a system that works for you—Hannah uses a Google Sheets template to manage her schedule and to-do list.
2. Data to Instruction Knowledge: Learn how to turn assessment data into actionable instruction. Acadiance training was highly recommended.
3. Second Computer Monitor: A practical but essential tool for handling data and managing multiple tasks efficiently.

Where to Find Hannah:

• Instagram: @readingwithmrsif
• Website: readingwithmrsif.com
• Email: [email protected]

Thanks for tuning in to today’s episode of The Literacy in Color Podcast! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode helpful, and stay tuned for more conversations with amazing literacy coaches in our bonus series: Coaching Conversations!

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