How Principals and Coaches Transform Instruction and Student Success
Effective teaching doesn’t happen in isolation—it thrives when leaders collaborate with purpose. In this session, participants will explore how a strong partnership between a principal and an instructional coach can transform daily practice, elevate instructional quality and significantly improve student achievement. Attendees will see how this layered support ensures that principals and coaches work closely together, creating a consistent, high-impact approach across the school. Through real examples, practical strategies, and collaborative discussion, participants will learn how joint vision-setting, shared coaching practices, and aligned schoolwide support systems create the conditions for meaningful instructional growth. Educators will walk away with actionable approaches to building and sustaining high-impact partnerships that transform teaching and learning.
Stella Barnaba
Jessica Hessler
As an IE Consultant, Jessica Hessler supports schools in implementing evidence-based proven methodologies for improving student outcomes. Jessica’s primary role centers around providing embedded professional development and coaching within turnaround schools. Before joining the IE team, Jessica worked as a public school educator, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal in schools with diverse populations. Her 23 years of experience include urban settings in both Duval and Hillsborough County, FL. Jessica received her Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from University of North Florida. Her other educational degrees include a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and an Educational Specialist Degree in School Turnaround. Currently Jessica is completing her Doctoral Degree with her dissertation focus on sustainable leadership practices in dual language programs. She believes that through the use of data-driven decision-making, rigorous instruction and equitable educational experiences for all students, the achievement gap will be eliminated.
Ashley Schubring
Ashley Schubring is a dynamic educational leader and practitioner with nearly two decades of experience in the classroom and beyond. She currently serves as an Instructional Coach in Glendale Heights, where she leverages her extensive background in curriculum implementation and teacher mentorship to drive instructional excellence.
Prior to her work in District 15, Ashley spent years within Chicago Public Schools. Her expertise spans across rigorous literacy and math frameworks. A champion for the “whole child” and the “whole teacher,” Ashley’s leadership extends into social-emotional learning and community building. She has led restorative circles, emceed academic bowls, and even founded staff wellness initiatives to foster a positive school culture. Ashley has mentored over a dozen resident and student teachers, helping them bridge the gap between theory and high-impact practice.
When she isn’t coaching teachers or analyzing data, she volunteers with her husband Josiah in mentoring youth and serving her community in Chicago.
Session Details
Topics:
Principal–Coach Partnerships
Instructional Leadership Systems
Improving Teaching & Student Outcomes
Audience: All
Difficulty Level: Intermediate