“Participating in the Coaching Institutes with Jim Knight reshaped our district's approach and beliefs about collaboration, reflection, and continuous learning. Having both instructional coaches and district leaders attend grounded our district in coaching as the model of how we partner in our district."

– Emily McFadden, Instructional Support Coordinator, Palatine Community Consolidated School District 15

“Prior to the training, our network had instructional coaches, but the nature of the role was not yet well-defined. After a year of learning with Jim Knight, we now understand what instructional coaching is, what it is not, and the structures that need to be in place to ensure that coaches and teachers can engage in meaningful partnerships.

The Jim Knight training should be required for any organization! While the primary audience is instructional coaches, this is really about how adults learn, what they need to feel respected and valued, and the foundational role that conversation and communication play in building a relationship. You will end the year with a new perspective and feel inspired to improve not just others, but yourself, as well!"

– Jane Szot, Distinctive Schools Network

"The information and experiences Jim shared during our sessions motivated our district to build a solid foundation for an amazing coaching program. The knowledge gained has transformed coaching in our district – taking a surface level program and creating a focus for greater impact.  Jim’s highly relational style and in-depth knowledge makes learning a pleasure.  We left every session energized and encouraged!"

– Denise M. Flavin, Curriculum Director, Burbank School District 111

"Participating in Jim Knight's Instructional Coaching Intensive has made a profound and positive impact on our instructional coaching program.  Being able to learn from one of education's leaders in the area of coaching alongside colleagues who share similar experiences provided great ideas and action items to bring back to my district.  Jim's approach of sharing content in engaging ways while building in ample opportunities to talk with other participants helped bring his concepts and methods to life.  The on-going, year-long institute reflects what we know results in more meaningful learning than one-time workshops.

As a member of the Coaching Champions group, I was afforded the unique opportunity to network with other instructional coaching program leaders.  We were able to share tips and approaches from everything to hiring, communicating purpose, and program evaluation.  This all took place with Jim at the table, where he was also able to weigh in, ask provoking questions, and provide positive affirmation and encouragement.  The one-on-one videochat conversations with Jim allowed me to go even deeper with my own learning and seek customized feedback regarding my practice as a leader."

– Becky (Fischer) Mathison, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Skokie School District 73½

"The training with Jim Knight through Northwestern's Educational Coaching Network was some of the best professional development I have ever attended. Jim understands the realities of the classroom and his main focus is to allow coaches and teachers to improve their craft. He breaks down educational research into real and tangible strategies that you can utilize with students right away. Above all, I found the training to be a positive and true collaboration of professional educators."

– John McGinnis, IB Diploma Programme Coordinator & Teacher, The Ogden International School of Chicago, Chicago Public Schools