Best practices for remote teaching by Student Success Coaches

Remote education has become an essential part of the modern learning experience, and Student Success Coaches must adapt their methods to continue supporting students effectively in virtual settings. While physical distance can create new challenges, it also opens up opportunities for creative engagement, flexible communication, and meaningful relationship-building. By using strategic tools and empathetic approaches, Student Success Coaches can foster student growth and accountability from anywhere. Here are best practices to ensure impactful remote coaching and support.

1. Build and Maintain Strong Relationships

Relationships remain the cornerstone of student success—even online. Coaches should:

• Start sessions with casual check-ins or emotion-rating tools
• Be consistent with meeting times and follow-through on commitments
• Use students' interests to personalize sessions and foster connection
• Communicate with warmth and encouragement through video, chat, or voice

Trust and connection are key to meaningful progress in remote environments.

2. Use Digital Tools for Goal Setting and Progress Tracking

Goal-setting and accountability are vital in remote learning. Effective strategies include:

• Creating shared Google Docs or Trello boards for student goals
• Using digital trackers or spreadsheets to monitor weekly progress
• Reviewing goals at the start and end of each virtual session
• Encouraging self-reflection with digital journals or exit tickets

Consistent tracking builds structure and keeps students focused on growth.

3. Promote Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Virtually

Coaches play a vital role in helping students manage emotions and stress online. Try:

• Using mindfulness apps or guided breathing videos to open sessions
• Asking reflective prompts like “What are you proud of this week?”
• Integrating short SEL mini-lessons on empathy, resilience, or self-talk
• Offering strategies to manage screen fatigue or virtual anxiety

SEL in remote sessions builds resilience and emotional awareness.

4. Use Interactive and Visual Engagement Strategies

Remote sessions need to be engaging to hold student attention. Boost interactivity with:

• Interactive whiteboards (e.g., Jamboard) for brainstorming or visual goal mapping
• Polls or quizzes using tools like Kahoot! to review study skills or life strategies
• Using Bitmoji classrooms or choice boards to give students agency
• Incorporating multimedia, such as videos or music, for reflection or motivation

Visuals and engagement tools make remote coaching more dynamic and student-centered.

5. Maintain Regular Communication and Availability

Availability outside of formal sessions increases accessibility. Coaches should:

• Use messaging tools like Remind or Microsoft Teams for quick check-ins
• Share weekly updates with students and families via email or newsletters
• Offer flexible scheduling options for students balancing home responsibilities
• Let students know when and how they can reach out for additional support

Regular, responsive communication builds reliability and trust.

6. Partner with Teachers and Families

Collaboration is essential for continuity of support. Coaches should:

• Join virtual team meetings to align strategies with educators
• Keep teachers informed of student progress or struggles
• Host brief virtual meetings with parents to share tips and insights
• Provide resources to families to reinforce coaching goals at home

Partnerships extend the impact of coaching beyond the screen.

7. Adapt and Reflect Continuously

Remote teaching requires flexibility and growth. To stay effective:

• Collect feedback from students on what’s working
• Analyze engagement and goal completion trends regularly
• Attend virtual professional development sessions to stay current
• Reflect after each session and adjust your approach as needed

Continual reflection ensures coaching remains relevant and impactful.

Conclusion

Remote teaching doesn’t limit the role of Student Success Coaches—it reshapes it. With intention, creativity, and consistent connection, coaches can continue to make a powerful difference in students’ lives no matter the distance. By building relationships, promoting accountability, and embracing digital tools, Student Success Coaches help students stay engaged, empowered, and on track for success in a virtual world.