Zooming In on Math Coaching with Lana Montero
Empowering Educators: My Journey as a Teacher and Coach
By Lana Montero
Hello! I’m excited to share a bit about my journey as an educator over the past 12 years. My career began with Teach for America in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where I had the privilege of leading a 2nd grade SEI (Sheltered English Immersion) classroom. This experience ignited my passion for teaching and working with diverse learners.
After my time in Lawrence, I spent seven rewarding years teaching grades 3-5 in Saugus, MA. Each year brought new challenges and triumphs, and I cherished every moment spent in the classroom, fostering a love for learning in my students.
Now, I’m in my fourth year as a Math Instructional Coach, a role that allows me to empower fellow educators. I love helping teachers feel confident in the curriculum and providing a confidential partnership where they can share ideas and challenges. Supporting my colleagues as they grow in their practice is incredibly fulfilling!
Outside of my professional life, I’m a busy mom to three little ones, and my husband is also a teacher. Balancing family and work keeps me on my toes, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. In addition to my teaching and coaching, I’m a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway and serve as an Illustrative Math facilitator. I find joy in cooking and experimenting with new recipes whenever I can.
I believe in the power of collaboration and continuous learning, and I’m dedicated to making a positive impact in education. Here’s to inspiring teachers and students alike!
Reaching Lana
Email: lana.montero@reading.k12.ma.us
Outline of Episode
Introduction and Background of Lana Montero
Melissa Milner introduces herself and the podcast, mentioning it is in its sixth season and released every other week.
Lana Montero introduces herself as a K-8 math coach for Reading Public Schools, with eight years of classroom experience and four years as an instructional coach.
Lana shares that her husband is also a teacher in the same district, and they have children in the same school.
Melissa expresses excitement about focusing on math coaching in the episode and thanks Lana for her contributions.
Transition from Classroom to Coaching Role
Lana discusses her teaching journey, starting in Lawrence, Massachusetts, and moving to Saugus, where she taught grades 3-5.
She explains the significant changes in Saugus after COVID, including the closure of elementary schools and the creation of a new K-5 building.
The superintendent approached Lana to take on a coaching role, which involved transitioning from teams of two teachers to teams of 12.
Lana describes her decision to take on the coaching role, citing her seven years of experience in Saugus and her desire to lead and bring teachers together.
Challenges and Rewards of Math Coaching
Melissa asks Lana about her vision for the coaching role and how it has evolved over time.
Lana emphasizes the importance of feedback and the role of a coach as a different perspective, using the analogy of a basketball coach.
She shares that her goal is to help teachers become their best selves and to maintain a close, supportive relationship with them.
Lana discusses the most rewarding and challenging aspects of her role, highlighting the reward of working with teachers and the challenge of managing time across multiple buildings.
Modeling and Coaching Strategies
Melissa inquires about Lana's approach to modeling lessons and the end goal of her coaching.
Lana explains that her approach depends on the teacher's experience level, emphasizing the importance of integrity over fidelity.
She shares her preference for modeling lessons with integrity and making them feasible for teachers, rather than following the program exactly.
Lana discusses the importance of veteran teachers and their willingness to try new routines and strategies.
Observation and Feedback Techniques
Melissa asks Lana about her approach to providing feedback during observations.
Lana shares her training with TNTP and the importance of finding the positive in every lesson.
She explains her process of asking teachers for their self-assessment before providing feedback, similar to the IM program.
Melissa and Lana discuss the importance of letting teachers speak first during observations and the value of affirming feedback.
Resources and Recommendations for Coaches
Melissa asks Lana for recommendations for math coaches, including books and resources.
Lana recommends gathering experience across grade levels and using the I Am blogs as valuable resources.
She mentions "The Art of Coaching" by Elena Aguilar and "Teach Like a Champion" as essential books for coaches.
Lana also recommends listening to the podcast version of "The Art of Coaching" for those who prefer audio content.
Collaboration and District-Wide Planning
Melissa and Lana discuss the importance of collaboration among coaches and within the district.
Lana mentions that she works with another coach, Alyssa, and they have weekly meetings to coordinate their efforts.
They discuss the role of the implementation team in deciding district-wide professional development (PD) topics.
Lana highlights the importance of addressing teacher feedback and ensuring that PD is relevant and useful for teachers.
Digital Platforms and Support for Teachers
Melissa and Lana discuss the challenges of implementing digital platforms for assessments and parent communication.
Lana shares her approach to supporting teachers with digital platforms, including modeling and providing resources.
They discuss the importance of having experienced teachers lead the way in using digital tools and supporting those who are less familiar with them.
Lana emphasizes the need for flexibility and understanding that different teachers have different levels of comfort with digital tools.
Organization and Time Management Tips
Melissa asks Lana for tips on organization and time management for busy coaches.
Lana shares her use of digital calendars and to-do lists to stay organized and ensure she is prepared for the week.
She emphasizes the importance of closing out the week by completing all tasks and being prepared for the next week.
Lana mentions her love for being busy and how it helps her stay organized and motivated.
Final Thoughts and Future Plans
Melissa and Lana discuss the importance of continuous improvement and feedback for coaches.
Lana mentions that she has an evaluator who provides feedback on her teaching and coaching, which she finds valuable.
They discuss the importance of integrity in teaching and the need to adapt curriculum to meet the needs of different students.
Lana expresses her commitment to supporting teachers and helping them feel successful in their roles.