Coaching Conversations: Transforming Your School One Conversation at a Time by Linda Gross Cheliotes & Marceta Fleming Reilly

As the subtitle suggests, this book has a school improvement focus. That being said, it is an excellent resource for both new and experienced instructional coaches. The book centers on the primary way coaches support teachers—through purposeful conversations. New coaches will find practical guidelines and suggestions for ensuring conversations remain focused on the intended goals and outcomes.

Although only 109 pages long, this book is filled with practical strategies that coaches can immediately apply to their work. Coaches will benefit especially from Chapter 3: Committed Listening, Chapter 4: Powerful Speaking, and Chapter 5: Reflective Feedback. The Listening Skills Self-Assessment included in the book is also a valuable tool for strengthening both coaching and teaching practices.

While every chapter offers valuable insights, coaches may find the sections on listening, questioning, and reflective feedback especially helpful for developing stronger communication skills and building more effective coaching partnerships.

Topics included in the book:

• Models for coaching conversations

• Components of committed listening and an aligned assessment

• Powerful speaking through intentions and questioning

• Three types of feedback, with an emphasis on reflective feedback

Why would a coach want to read this?

This resource focuses on the importance of effective communication in coaching, with an emphasis on both listening and speaking. The authors provide practical guidance, easy-to-use self-assessments, and strategies that help coaches strengthen their communication skills and facilitate more meaningful coaching conversations.