Coaching the Coach: How AI Can Support Instructional Leaders in Their Own Growth

As Jim Knight 's Better Conversations reminds us, effective coaching starts with self-awareness, authentic dialogue, and a willingness to grow. But who supports the coach? And how can leaders ensure that they are continually refining their own practice while leading others? Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers new possibilities for instructional leaders—not as a replacement for reflection and human-centered coaching, but as a partner in it. When used intentionally, AI can help coaches develop deeper insights into their own communication, enhance their ability to support others, and model the kind of refl ective practice they seek to inspire. Here are practical ways school leaders and coaches can use AI to invest in their own learning, hone their coaching craft, and foster a reflective, feedback-rich culture from the top down

1. Reflective Dialogue Analysis with AI Tools

One of the key tenets of Better Conversations is learning to listen more and talk less. AI tools can help instructional leaders analyze their own conversations with teachers, identify patterns, and make small but powerful shifts in how they listen, question, and respond.

Practical Steps:

● Use platforms like TeachFX or Otter.ai to record and transcribe coaching conversations.

● Analyze the transcripts for question-to-statement ratios, wait time, and teacher vs. coach talk time.

● Reflect on what your language reveals about your coaching stance and set goals for improvement. Why It Matters: This fosters a growth mindset in coaches and provides a clear model of data-informed reflection for others to follow.

2. AI-Powered Feedback Loops for Coaching Growth Just as teachers need ongoing feedback, so do instructional leaders. AI can assist by identifying growth areas based on interactions, goals, and even sentiment analysis. Practical Steps:

● Use tools like Tability or Coaching.com to set coaching goals and track progress.

● Pair AI-generated feedback with peer or mentor check-ins to triangulate insights.

● Reflect on how coaching interactions evolve over time with AI-tracked metrics.

Why It Matters: Instructional leaders often operate in silos. These feedback loops allow for continual growth even in the absence of a formal supervisor.

3. Leveraging AI for Intentional Language and Communication

Jim Knight emphasizes the importance of language in shaping beliefs and culture. AI can support leaders in becoming more intentional with their word choices, tone, and emotional regulation. Practical Steps:

● Use writing tools like GrammarlyGO or QuillBot with tone and clarity suggestions to practice framing messages with empathy.

● Utilize AI-driven role-play scenarios to rehearse difficult conversations or deliver feedback.

● Reflect on the emotional tone and impact of written or spoken communication using AI sentiment tools. Why It Matters: Every email, conversation, and meeting message shapes school culture. AI can help leaders communicate with greater clarity, consistency, and empathy.

4. Microlearning and Just-in-Time Leadership Development Time is a precious resource for school leaders. AI can provide bite-sized, highly relevant professional development when and where it’s needed most. Practical Steps:

● Subscribe to AI-powered PD platforms like LISA (Learning Innovation Support App) or Synthesia for on-demand learning. ● Ask AI (like ChatGPT) to summarize key research or coaching strategies tailored to your current needs.

● Build a personalized coaching playlist of brief AI-recommended videos, articles, or modules. Why It Matters: Leaders don’t need more PD—they need smarter, more contextual learning that fits their schedules and aligns with their goals. 5. Modeling Reflective Practice with AI Tools The best coaches model the behavior they want to see. By using AI tools to reflect, refine, and evolve, leaders demonstrate that everyone is a learner.

Practical Steps:

● Maintain a digital reflection journal using tools like Notion AI or Reflect AI.

● Use generative AI to brainstorm new coaching strategies or explore alternative perspectives.

● Share anonymized examples of how AI insights have helped you grow as a coach in staff meetings or PLCs.

Why It Matters: This builds a culture where risk-taking, vulnerability, and data-informed self-improvement are seen as strengths. Final Thoughts: Leadership Through Learning

AI can never replace the deeply human elements of instructional coaching—empathy, trust, connection—but it can help leaders do their jobs with more precision, insight, and reflection. As you lead others, let AI help lead you toward better questions, deeper understanding, and more meaningful conversations. Because when instructional leaders commit to their own growth, they send a powerful message: everyone in the building is a learner.