Secondary Coaching Network

Overview and Description

The Secondary Coaching Network is an opportunity for middle and high school coaches, teacher leaders, and department chairs to enhance knowledge and implementation of research-based practices in adolescent literacy.

Definition of Coaching

“Coaching is a partnership built on trust, reflection, and steady growth. It gives people a consistent place to think about their practice, talk through decisions, and notice what students are showing them each day. In coaching, no one is being judged. The goal is clarity, confidence, and support.

Coaching helps people connect what they’re teaching to who they’re teaching: their students’ identities, cultures, strengths, and lived experiences. It invites people to try strategies, reflect on what worked, and make meaningful adjustments that support student learning.

Good coaching doesn’t rush, demand, or direct. It listens. It asks questions. It helps people see possibilities they may not have seen before.

At its core, coaching is how schools build shared understanding, stronger practice, and classrooms where every student feels seen, supported, and capable."

3P Framework: Emphasizing Engaging, Authentic, and Meaningful Instructional Approaches

Three circles for Problem, Place, and Project-Based Learning overlapping at central Disciplinary Literacy

Problem-Based Learning

Centers on solving real-world problems.
Encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and inquiry.
Students take ownership of their learning by actively solving problems.

Project-Based Learning

Involves creating a tangible project as the outcome of learning.
Students explore a topic deeply and apply knowledge in practical, hands-on ways.
Promotes creativity, innovation, and cross-disciplinary connections.

Place-Based Learning

Rooted in the local context and environment.
Leverages the community, geography, and culture as a foundation for learning.
Fosters a sense of connection, relevance, and stewardship for the students' surroundings.

Resources/Links

Enhanced understanding of disciplinary literacy for teachers and students
Opportunities to engage in place-, problem-, and project-based learning at locations throughout Wayne County
Increased capacity of secondary literacy leaders through adult learning principles
Increased implementation through targeted coaching
Collaborate around humanizing and equitable ways to use data and assessment.