Making Math Moments That Matter When to Say Goodbye: Navigating Challenging Math Coaching Relationships
As a math coach, building relationships with teachers is critical to fostering meaningful growth and collaboration. But what happens when a math coaching partnership becomes stagnant or even toxic? In this episode, we tackle the delicate topic of ending a math coaching relationship when it’s no longer productive. We'll explore signs that it’s time to move on, strategies for reflecting on what went wrong, and ways to maintain professionalism and integrity during the process. Whether you’re navigating mismatched math goals or unproductive dynamics, this episode will empower you with tools to manage challenging math coaching relationships and refocus your energy on supporting teachers who are ready to grow
Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:
- The importance of building relationships: Strong, trust-based relationships with teachers are foundational to effective coaching and collaboration.
- Recognizing when a coaching relationship isn't working: Signs that a partnership has become stagnant or toxic include mismatched goals, lack of progress, or unproductive dynamics.
- Strategies for reflection: Reflect on what might have contributed to the relationship's challenges, including your own actions or approach, to learn and grow as a coach.
- Maintaining professionalism and integrity: When ending a coaching relationship, handle the situation with respect, clear communication, and professionalism to preserve trust and maintain the focus on supporting students.
- Refocusing on growth opportunities: Redirect your energy to working with teachers who are open to collaboration and growth, ensuring your efforts have the greatest impact.
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Are you wondering how to create K-12 math lesson plans that leave students so engaged they don’t want to stop exploring your math curriculum when the bell rings? In their podcast, Kyle Pearce and Jon Orr—founders of MakeMathMoments.com—share over 19 years of experience inspiring K-12 math students, teachers, and district leaders with effective math activities, engaging resources, and innovative math leadership strategies. Through a 6-step framework, they guide K-12 classroom teachers and district math coordinators on building a strong, balanced math program that grows student and teacher impact. Each week, gain fresh ideas, feedback, and practical strategies to feel more confident and motivate students to see the beauty in math. Start making math moments today by listening to Episode #139: "Making Math Moments From Day 1 to 180.