Octopus Coaching: A Deep Dive into Guiding Teachers Through Effective Observations in Private Day Schools

This session explores *Octopus Coaching*, a strategic approach to guiding teachers through effective observations within special education private day schools. Participants will take a deep dive into multi-layered coaching methods that enhance instructional practices, support compliance, and promote student success through collaborative feedback, real-time modeling, and data-driven reflection.Participants will be able to: 1. Implement a structured coaching and observation cycle—including pre-conference, observation, post-conference feedback, coaching support, and progress review—tailored specifically to the needs of special education teachers in private day school settings. 2. Utilize evidence-based observation and feedback strategies that support instructional improvement, including real-time coaching, walkthrough evidence collection, goal-setting aligned with IEP goals, and strengths-based feedback techniques. 3. Develop a coaching action plan that includes practical tools such as observation templates, follow-up strategies, and professional development recommendations that support continuous growth and improved student performance. 4. Walk away with tangible skills to strengthen coaching relationships, promote reflective teaching, and improve the quality of instruction for students with disabilities.