ISTE Standards for Coaches and Administrators

ISTE introduced standards for teachers and for students that many educators are very familiar with. The lesser known standards that have been released by ISTE were released for coaches and for administrators. These standards cover a wide range of categories, but are all a part of ensuring that technology is used in order to enhance the learning experience for all students of varying levels.

At first glance the standards seem very similar. Both, the standards for coaches and the standards for administrators cover sections on visionary leadership. Both administrators and coaches are expected to advocate for technology in the classroom, but coaches are expected to go a little further in developing a shared vision for technology, create technology infused strategic plans at the district and building levels, and implementing strategies for initiating and sustaining technology.

Both are also expected to develop and maintain a digital age learning environment. Administrators are expected to promote the digital age environment, while coaches are expected to create and support the digital age environment for teachers. This support may include modeling classroom management, coaching teachers, and modeling use of online and blended learning practices.

Both administrators and coaches are also expected to have a role in professional practices and professional development. Once again, administrators are expected to promote an environment of professional learning and innovation. They should promote the infusion of contemporary technologies and digital resources. Coaches are expected to go a step further. They are expected to develop technology related professional learning programs based on the needs of the staff.

Lastly, both administrators and coaches are expected to model and promote digital citizenship for their students. Overall, it seems as though the standards are similar, but the tech coach (whose primary objective is to focus on technology) is expected to take technology a step further in both leading and developing learning programs, and assisting in the classroom as needed. The tech coach needs to have a finger on the pulse of the staff at all times in conjunction with their needs in relation to technology. The administrator is there to support the tech coach and show their support of the ongoing technology growth.