With ACSA’s Precision Coaching, members will have free access to an experienced leadership coach who can help them grow in their capacity to lead.

Precision Coaching is entering its second year after supporting over 50 members in 2024-25. This year, free coaching will be available to approximately 75 members. Members will be selected based on need and will receive 15-25 hours of coaching support available throughout the school year. ACSA membership is required to be considered for this service.

Members who received coaching last year said the service has helped them lead with greater clarity and purpose.

Palo Alto Middle College Principal Emily Garrison said she received timely and individualized support during her first year as a site administrator.

“The support provided by this program was essential, as it was available to me at a mid-career shift when other traditional coaching models (such as through a Clear Administrative credential program) were no longer available to me,” she said. “Participating in this program was an exceptional professional learning experience.”

Precision Coaching is open to all administrators, however, there will be a special focus on supporting school principals.

Members who may be interested in this benefit include assistant principals who were just promoted to principal and need guidance in creating and implementing a shared vision; leaders looking to make significant reforms to their school or district to improve student outcomes; leaders with difficult personnel issues or situations; and leaders who want an outside perspective on navigating sensitive issues.

This program takes advantage of the highly trained coaching network ACSA has developed for its Clear Administrative Credential Program, which includes a pool of 500 coaches statewide.

One Precision Coach shared, “It is truly an honor to be able to have meaningful, discreet, and bold conversations with fellow administrators who are passionate about their students, building relationships with the communities they serve, and growing as educational leaders.”

ACSA Credential and Coaching Services Director Dr. Tamerin Tooker oversees the Precision Coaching service.

“Coaching school leaders is an investment in leadership development — it turns potential into practice, cultivates clarity in complexity, and builds the confidence to lead with purpose and impact,” she said. “Our coaches are some of the most accomplished leaders in education and they’re ready to help our members reach their full leadership potential.”

ACSA-certified coaches receive ongoing training in the art of evocative coaching and are skilled professionals in guiding leaders to solve challenges. Coaches will be available in-person and virtually, depending on the member’s location and specific need.

This member benefit aligns with ACSA’s goal to provide accessible, relevant opportunities for professional learning and leadership development through which members can acquire, apply, and demonstrate new knowledge, as well as expand career pathways.

“Participating in ACSA Precision Coaching has been an incredibly valuable experience that has strengthened my leadership skills and enhanced my ability to support students, staff, and programs,” said another member, Teresa Howard. “This process has pushed me to think critically, embrace continuous growth, and remain intentional in aligning decisions with student success. The coaching has provided both accountability and encouragement, helping me grow as a leader and better serve my school community.”