Coaching FAQs

Coaching FAQs

Classroom Coaching Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Classroom Coaching?

Classroom coaching is a free service available to Virginia Public School classrooms that pairs an educator with an ACE coach to develop and implement evidence-based practices (EBP) for autistic students. During coaching sessions, the ACE coach provides problem-solving support, resources, tools, and training with hands-on implementation and real-time feedback.

For more information about coaching, check out the VCU-RRTC ACE Coaching Process infographic.

2. How long is each coaching term?

ACE offers 3-4 coaching terms during the school year. Each term is approximately nine weeks. On average, we provide three to five coaching sessions during the term. Coaching frequency and format (in-person and/or virtual) are determined by the ACE coach and educator when developing goals.

3. Why is coaching beneficial?

Coaching bridges the gap between knowledge and implementation. By using observation and self-assessment data, educators identify skills they want to improve in their own practice. Coaching sessions provide an opportunity for the ACE coach and the educator to review targeted resources and work together to receive real-time rehearsal, feedback, and problem-solving around their identified goal.

4. How can administrators support the coaching process?

Administrator encouragement and support during the coaching process can positively impact the educator’s ability to reach their coaching goals and achieve more successful outcomes for their students. Administrators are invited to join a pre-coaching meeting to ensure that coaching goals are not just individual milestones, but are aligned with the school and division’s broader priorities.

If requested, the ACE coach can provide resources and tools to help building and division leaders support the coaching classroom. For resources designed specifically for leaders, check out the For Administrators page on our website.

5. Should coaching outcomes be used for an educator’s evaluation?

No. ACE coaching is not intended to support or provide data related to evaluations, improvement plans, or other human resources issues. ACE coaching is a private, supportive partnership dedicated entirely to an educator’s professional growth. While we collaborate with administrators to align priorities, specific coaching details remain confidential.

6. Can ACE help me identify strategies for one student?

ACE does not provide individual student consults. ACE coaching empowers educators to implement classwide strategies that support all students. This approach aims to increase student engagement, independence, and learning, often reducing the need for student specific intervention.

7. What is expected of the educator receiving coaching?

Each coaching relationship is unique and based on the educator's strengths, needs, and priorities. Broadly, the expectations of the educator and coach are listed in the table below.

Educator Coach
  • Fill out the Classroom Indicators’ Checklist Self-Assessment prior to the first classroom observation
  • Agree to ACE observations and data collection in their classroom through the Classroom Indicators Checklist
  • Participate in conversations pertaining to the area of focus
  • Implement agreed-upon action steps following feedback and conversations with coach
  • Utilize resources and support provided
  • Provide feedback on the coaching process, as well as the resources and support provided
  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Discuss classroom challenges, self-assessment, and results of the Classroom Indicators Checklist
  • Facilitate development of a goal and action steps around the agreed-upon area of focus
  • Provide real-time coaching and modeling of evidence-based practices and high-leverage practices
  • Provide resources and support
  • Reflect and provide supportive feedback on the targeted goal and action steps
  • Maintain confidentiality
8. What are Evidence-Based Practices?

Evidence-based practices, or EBPs, are strategies that have demonstrated efficacy for supporting students. VCU-RRTC-ACE typically refers to the EBPs identified by the National Professional Development Center for Autism (NPDC). For an overview of the primary practices addressed through coaching, see the Foundational Five Factsheet.

9. Someone else signed me up for coaching. Do I have to participate?

No. Partnering with ACE is completely voluntary, but educators are encouraged to consider meeting with an ACE coach before making a decision. Targeted ACE coaching aims to balance meaningful support with minimal stress. Professional learning is a lifelong process, and ACE would love to be a part of that journey.

10. Can I receive coaching in more than one coaching term?

Yes, educators are welcome to request additional coaching. If an educator has had a positive experience with coaching and would like to request additional coaching support, please complete a new VCU-RRTC-ACE Classroom Coaching Request.

Coaching assignments are determined as requests are received. Please note that while ACE strives to support as many educators as possible, coaching requests are considered based on factors such as staff availability and prior coaching experience within the division or classroom.

11. What else can ACE help me with?

ACE provides free resources and training designed for various roles, skill levels, and needs. Many of these resources are available on the ACE website and cover a wide range of topics to support students with autism at home, school, and in the community.

If you are waiting for your coaching term to begin, or would like to learn more about ACE, explore ACE's complete Menu of Services.

12. How can I find out about new resources available from ACE?

We are developing new resources all the time! To stay up-to-date with all things ACE: