%20(18).png)
The Making Schools Work Podcast
Join us each week as we talk to different SREB team members and educators across the country to find out the latest in school innovations. From classroom instruction to school leadership, we are going to examine what it is that makes schools work!
The Making Schools Work Podcast
The Art of the Feedback Conversation: Part 2 with Principal Baruti Kafele
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
In the conclusion of our two-part series with Principal Baruti Kafele, we move from the leadership mindset to the tactical execution of instructional coaching. This episode is a deep dive into the "Grow You" model, focusing on the sophisticated people skills and communication nuances required to turn high-stakes observations into transformative growth.
We explore the psychology of the feedback loop, the importance of "reading the room," and how to build a culture where instructional leadership is the daily norm, not a seasonal event.
Key Discussion Points
- Building a "Grow You" Culture: Shifting the perception of classroom visits from a punitive "gotcha" to an inherent, supportive part of a teacher’s professional identity.
- The Psychology of the Conversation: Practical "tricks" for leveling the playing field, including moving meetings out of the office and the intentional use of student seating to reduce power dynamics.
- Mastering Communication Nuances: How a leader’s voice, facial expressions and even the intensity of their eye contact can either build a bridge or create a barrier to growth.
- Audience Analysis for Educators: The importance of "reading the room" and adapting your leadership style to meet the unique personality and experience level of every teacher.
- Feedback That Allays Anxiety: Strategies for finding immediate common ground and using early reinforcement to ensure teachers remain open to constructive growth.
Featured Guest
Baruti Kafele is a former award-winning high school principal and a leading authority on school leadership and culture. He is the author of several books, including What Is My Value to the Teachers I Supervise? and is a highly sought-after featured presenter at the SREB Making Schools Work Conference.
Resources Mentioned
- PrincipalKafele.com: Baruti Kafele’s official website for books, resources, and speaking information.
- The Assistant Principal & New Principals Academy: Principal Kafele's weekly YouTube live stream (300+ consecutive weeks) for school leaders.
- What Is My Value to the Teachers I Supervise?: Principal Kafele's latest book focused on instructional leadership.
The Southern Regional Education Board is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that works with states and schools to improve education at every level, from early childhood through doctoral education and the workforce.
Follow Us on Social: