Professional Title: Instructional Coach

Class Year: 1997

Major: Elementary Education

Location: Greensboro, N.C.

Education Experience: 23 years

Please share your experience working with students during the pandemic?

I am a Multiple Classroom Leader/Instructional Coach at Falkener Elementary School. I help to coach and support a team of five second grade teachers. It has been very challenging to coach virtually, knowing that I am a hands on type of person. I am used to going into the different classrooms to work with small groups of students and help coach and support the classroom teacher. When the schools shut down in March, I had to quickly learn how to use Canvas and Microsoft Teams to be able to stay connected with my group of teachers. During this time, my coaching focus has also shifted. I try to be really in tune with the different stressors that the teachers are facing. Not only has the teaching platform changed, but the teachers have different stressors outside of work as well. When I do have my coaching sessions with them, I begin each session with letting them just talk about how they are feeling and where they are mentally. Our school counselors have done a fantastic job of helping to support us with the entire social emotional learning part.

I honestly miss having the students in the building. I miss watching their faces light up when they understand a new concept.  Being in a pandemic has changed me in so many ways, but I know that we will all get through this because Aggies do!

What advice would you give to people during this pandemic?

My advice is to start each day in a quiet space to center oneself. That could look like taking deep breaths, reading an inspirational reading, listening to a favorite artist, etc. I personally begin my day with prayer. It is also important to connect with positive people.  For me, that’s my family and close friends. With my friends, we text each other daily to keep in touch.  Also, find something that brings you joy and a space to clear your mind.