Digital tools every Student Success Coach should learn

In 2025, Student Success Coaches rely heavily on digital tools to support students effectively, manage caseloads, and collaborate with school teams. With the rise of hybrid learning environments and data-informed intervention strategies, mastering the right technologies is essential for maximizing impact. From progress tracking platforms to communication apps, these tools help coaches streamline their workflow and maintain strong connections with students, educators, and families. Here are the must-know digital tools every Student Success Coach should learn and use with confidence.

1. Student Data and Progress Monitoring Systems

Tracking academic and behavioral performance is central to coaching. Useful platforms include:

• Naviance or PowerSchool: For tracking grades, attendance, and intervention notes
• EduClimber or Panorama: For compiling behavior, SEL, and academic data in real-time dashboards
• Google Sheets: A flexible, low-cost option for custom goal tracking and caseload management
• Kickboard: Designed to monitor student behavior trends and support PBIS frameworks

These tools enable data-driven support and help identify students who need targeted interventions.

2. Communication and Collaboration Platforms

Student Success Coaches need to stay in touch with a wide range of stakeholders. Recommended tools include:

• Remind: For secure, school-friendly messaging with students and families
• Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Forms): For sharing plans, collecting input, and collaborating with teams
• Microsoft Teams or Slack: For real-time collaboration with staff and cross-functional teams
• Calendly or Bookings: To schedule coaching sessions and meetings efficiently

Clear, consistent communication is key to student accountability and family engagement.

3. Digital Goal Setting and Coaching Tools

Coaching is most effective when students are actively involved. Use tools like:

• Trello or Notion: For organizing student success plans, checklists, and reflections
• Habitica: A gamified productivity app that turns goals into achievements
• Seesaw: For younger students to document and share personal learning goals
• Padlet: A visual space for students to share growth, wins, or personal check-ins

These tools encourage goal ownership and boost motivation through digital engagement.

4. SEL and Wellness Support Tools

Student Success Coaches often support emotional regulation and self-awareness. Try:

• Mood Meter or Inner Explorer: For daily emotional check-ins and SEL reflection
• Headspace for Educators: Free access to guided mindfulness and breathing exercises
• Calm Classroom digital resources: For in-session or remote SEL activities
• GoNoodle: For younger students to engage in movement, regulation, and mindfulness breaks

Supporting students’ emotional needs fosters stronger academic and behavioral growth.

5. Engagement and Virtual Meeting Tools

Whether working in person or remotely, engagement tools help keep students connected. Top picks include:

• Zoom or Google Meet: For one-on-one coaching, family check-ins, or virtual support groups
• Kahoot! or Quizizz: To review study habits, SEL concepts, or life skills in an interactive way
• Nearpod: For delivering lessons, reflection prompts, or coaching mini-workshops

Interactive tools support engagement, especially for students needing extra motivation or reinforcement.

6. Digital File Organization and Privacy Tools

With student information, confidentiality and organization are critical. Coaches should:

• Use Google Drive folders with naming conventions for storing files securely
• Set sharing permissions to protect confidential notes and forms
• Back up data using secure cloud systems and encrypted drives
• Use password managers like LastPass to keep credentials safe

Proper organization ensures easy access to information while maintaining compliance with privacy standards.

Conclusion

Digital fluency is a non-negotiable skill for today’s Student Success Coaches. By using tools that support progress tracking, student engagement, collaboration, and SEL, coaches can work more efficiently and build stronger relationships with the communities they serve. As schools continue to embrace digital transformation, mastering these tools will allow coaches to scale their impact, support students holistically, and lead the way in personalized, technology-enhanced education.