POSITIVE & PRODUCTIVE COACHING: AN INTERVIEW PROTOCOL AND SYSTEMATIC APPROACH FOR CREATING COACHING GOALS

Mathematics coaches have an immense responsibility to uniquely coach a diverse group of teachers in “areas related to standards, curriculum, assessment, and professional development” (AMTE, 2010, p. 1). Because of the diversity of teacher’s needs and school settings, it is important that a coach establish personalized goals with each teacher. Establishing these goals and making sure they are effective requires a positive and trusting relationship with the teacher based on shared values. This article outlines an interview protocol to guide initial interactions and a systematic approach for identifying a coaching goal. Included is a sample interview, an analysis of the interview questions, and strategies for creating a productive and positive interview. By using this interview protocol, the coach will be able to select purposeful questions, build a positive relationship with the teacher, and obtain the necessary information to help create an effective coaching goal.