Finding Your Coaching Community

general coaching professional development relationships Sep 29, 2025

by Katie Maciulewicz

The shift from being a classroom teacher to a new instructional coach can feel a little isolating. You're stepping into a new role and navigating uncharted territory – and in my case, sitting alone in an all-glass office in a random hallway in the school that no one knows exists. It’s time to seek out some support and community!

A professional learning network (PLN) is more than just a list of contacts; it's your dedicated support system. They're the people who get it – the wins, the challenges, the weird moments that only another coach would understand. This isn't just about finding a sounding board; it's about connecting with people who offer fresh perspectives and genuinely champion your growth.

So, how do you find your coaching comrades?

Learning Through Online Communities

Online communities are a powerful way to gain inspiration and a deeper understanding of specific topics through interaction and shared learning. These platforms are perfect for on-the-go professional development, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.

We’d love for you to join us at the EDU Coach Network! We are an online community where you can learn from other coaches not only through content like blogs, podcasts, and newsletters but also by interacting directly with others. We offer a discussion board to ask questions and engage in conversation, plus monthly challenges to keep you growing and connected to your peers.

We also host small-group Coaching Squads, which are made up of 5-8 coaches who meet regularly online to support one another. These squads follow a structured program with meetings dedicated to kickoffs, crucial conversations, "hot seat" sessions, and reflections to help members achieve their coaching goals.

Online Communities and Social Media

In this glorious age of connectivity, your coaching community could be just a few clicks away. Platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter) and BlueSky are buzzing with educators sharing ideas, asking questions, and celebrating wins. You might be surprised how quickly you can find your people by following a few relevant hashtags or joining dedicated groups.

One fantastic account to follow is the EDU Guardians Community. It's a vibrant hub for educators and coaches of all kinds, offering a place to connect, collaborate, and grow. They've built a "safe haven where educators can openly share their challenges without the fear of being judged"—and who doesn't need a space like that?

Beyond social media, there are numerous online communities just for instructional coaches. These can be forums or dedicated platforms where coaches gather to discuss strategies, share resources, and offer support. The best part? You can connect with coaches from all over the world, opening up a whole universe of diverse perspectives.

In-Person Networking: Organizations and Conferences

While digital connections are awesome, there's nothing quite like connecting with your peers in person. Professional organizations dedicated to instructional coaching are excellent for this. They often host conferences and workshops that are fantastic opportunities to learn from experts and network with other coaches. Think of it as professional development, supercharged by personal connection and collaboration.

There are national educational conferences for every subject area and grade-level that include sessions for coaches. If you’re a tech coach, the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is a must. Don't forget about local and state-level organizations, either! These are often more accessible and are fantastic for building relationships with coaches in your own geographic area.

At these events, don't be shy! Strike up conversations, exchange contact info, and follow up with new connections. You might find your next collaborator for a conference presentation, or simply the person who knows exactly what you're talking about when you mention a tough coaching cycle.

Connecting with Colleagues in Your District

Last, don't forget about the resources right in your own backyard! If your district has other instructional coaches, be sure to cultivate those relationships. Schedule regular meetings with your district colleagues, even if it's just to share what you're working on, brainstorm solutions to common challenges, or debrief a tricky coaching cycle. These internal connections are often the most immediate and accessible source of support. You can co-plan professional development sessions, collaborate on resources, and provide feedback to one another. Remember, you're all in this together, working towards the same goal of supporting teachers and students.

Looking for Community & PD Together?

We offer coaching certifications and mentorships to help you grow professionally AND give you a community to connect with. Our coaching certifications involve nine virtual meetings – five learning sessions and four focused discussions. This is a perfect opportunity for new and veteran coaches alike to learn and grow in their coaching practice while also building their PLN. Coaches in the certified cohorts are able to connect with each other not only through the virtual sessions but also in a private online community. Our goal for cohort participants is to create connections with coaches outside of their immediate network and learn from others around the country.

Learn more about our coaching certifications here!

Finding your coaching community is about more than just accessing information; it's about finding a sense of belonging and collaboration. When you have a strong PLN, you'll feel more supported, inspired, and empowered to make a lasting impact on your school community. So, go forth and find your people, instructional coaches! The future of education is brighter when we learn and grow together.

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