Case

Study 5.2
Corey Golla
December 18, 2016

Based on the description in this case study there is a perception that one of the

coaches is abusing his influence and undermining teachers and more importantly

the education of his student athletes and perhaps indirectly others. As I begin as

principal I want to begin building relationships. This will include all staff members

but in this case I want to come to know the coach and those who have concerns. As I

meet with our coach I will work to understand how he views the role of athletics in

education. It will also be important that he understands that I value it as well.

Athletics can be both a culture builder and an avenue to engage students in the

school environment. Coaches have a unique opportunity to be an additional

resource for their athletes as they can often use the relationships they build through

a common passion for the activity to challenge students to achieve at levels they

may not have imagined. I also want to work with the coach to help him understand

the unique influence he can have in our community and work with him to develop a

shared vision for that role. Athletics can be the public symbol of the work we do in

classrooms everyday. We exemplify character, excellence, and grit in all that we do.

As I begin I will communicate directly with all coaches regarding our expectations

for athletes and coaches. At that time we can specifically address the important role

they can play in helping their student athletes succeed in the classroom while

explicitly describing what that support might look like and how they can partner

with teachers in that work. We can discuss the delicate balance between support for

their athletes and pressure on teachers. Their communication with teachers should
be framed as support for student learning. Any discussions of the grade and the

impact the grade may have on the program are not appropriate and not included in

our shared vision for excellence.

My approach in this scenario will be based on building relationships and a shared

vision. That vision will include an athletic program of high character that is aimed

at increasing student achievement. Athletes will be held to the same standards as

others in the classroom. Coaches and advisors can be supporters for learning; they

cannot be engaged in grading decisions. That can be made explicitly clear without

choosing sides early in my tenure.