Frances Peterson earned national board certification, which moves Kentucky teachers into the top pay scale. Coaches are best able to help beginning teachers when they are matched by grade level or subject area. This can be a challenge depending on the availability of experienced teachers at school. In one location, a beginning English teacher was paired with a science teacher. Although the coach was able to help with classroom management issues, he was not much help on curriculum matters.
Psychosocial support is a key ingredient of successful coaching.
Career functions are aspects of the relationship that help the beginning teacher develop skills necessary for success in the organization. Psychosocial functions help the beginning teacher on a more personal level, assisting him or her to develop a sense of self-worth and competence. From their perspectives, the personal and emotional support provided by coaches is a key benefit of the coaching program. Increased program flexibility allows coaches to tailor activities to beginning teacher needs. As a result, the length of time they spend together varies widely.