Wilkes-Barre Area School District

WHAT is WBA Instructional Coaching?

WBA Instructional Coaching is a collaborative process where experienced coaches partner with teachers to strengthen instructional practices. Through one-on-one support, feedback, and ongoing professional learning, coaches help teachers refine strategies, explore new approaches, and address classroom challenges. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of teaching, which in turn leads to better student outcomes and ultimately increase student achievement while fostering a culture of continuous professional growth.

WHY Instructional Coaching in WBA?

 The program is designed to build a stronger district where excellent teaching leads to higher levels of student success. By providing individualized support, fostering collaboration, and empowering teachers with support and effective tools and strategies, we aim to create a culture of continuous improvement that benefits everyone. Teachers and coaches work together to reflect on and adjust instruction to better meet the needs of all students..

HOW does WBA Instructional Coaching work?

 Instructional coaches work alongside teachers in classrooms to plan and discuss lessons, model strategies, and provide real-time support and feedback. A key component of this work is the use of Exit Tickets, which help assess student understanding at the end of each lesson. Teachers and coaches use this data to adjust instruction, differentiate learning, and celebrate student progress—helping students take ownership of their learning and develop a growth mindset.

In our second year of WBA instructional coaching, we’ve built on a strong foundation and deepened the way we support both teachers and students. What began as a new initiative has evolved into a powerful, embedded practice that is making an even greater impact in our classrooms.

Coaching is now seamlessly integrated into the school day. Coaches and teachers work in true partnership—analyzing formative  exit ticket data, refining instruction, and responding to student needs in real time. Together, they provide targeted support through small groups, one-on-one conferencing, and in-the-moment adjustments that keep learning moving forward.

Because of this strengthened collaboration, learning gaps are being identified and addressed even more efficiently. Teachers feel increasingly confident and empowered in their instructional decisions, and students are benefiting from timely, responsive support that helps them stay on track and reach higher levels of success.

 Small groups are supported by both teachers and the Instructional Coach, with instruction designed to meet individual student needs. Every student receives the support needed to grow and succeed. This work reflects our shared commitment to “Excellent Education, Every Day, for Every Student” The Jim Knight Instructional Coaching Framework, emphasizes collaboration among teachers and coaches to improve learning outcomes.

Students are experiencing learning in new and meaningful ways through collaboration, small-group instruction, and opportunities to apply their skills to real-world situations. These engaging learning experiences help students build deeper understanding, retain knowledge, and develop a greater enjoyment of the school day. As students discover their strengths, explore their potential, and see the value of their own ideas and contributions, they grow in confidence and become more empowered learners.

WBA Instructional Coaches are committed to continuous learning and growth, bringing new knowledge, strategies, and ideas into the classroom while partnering with teachers through the Jim Knight Instructional Coaching Framework. This collaborative teacher-coach partnership combines expertise, perspectives, and innovative ideas to strengthen instruction. When teachers and coaches work together, they create meaningful learning experiences that rise to meet the unique needs of every student.