Empowered Educator: Leadership in Motion | Educational Leadership, Principal Leadership, Teachers as Leaders · Dr. Mel Vandevort - Educational Leadership, Educational Consultancy, Teacher Transition Coach, Educational Administration, Educational Entrepreneurship

🎙Engagement in Action — Episode 2: See It. Name It. Do It. Coaching in Real Time #202

November 5, 2025·11 min·1 clip
Dr. Mel reveals the number one thing leaders can do to boost student engagement: give feedback in the moment.
This episode focuses on a practical method for school leaders to improve student engagement through immediate teacher feedback. Host Dr. Mel, an educator with over 20 years of experience, addresses listeners aiming to advance into leadership or consulting roles. She presents a specific cycle designed for giving effective real-time feedback in classrooms. The core framework introduced is the "see it, name it, do it" cycle for in-the-moment coaching. Dr. Mel argues that the most impactful feedback occurs while learning is happening, not during later meetings. She positions this technique as the number one action leaders can take to boost student engagement. The method is presented as a direct alternative to delayed feedback given after the bell rings or in scheduled sessions the following week. Dr. Mel promises to show listeners exactly how to implement this cycle so the feedback "sticks." Her broader goal is to help educators leverage their talents to create impact on a larger scale. She connects this specific skill to her podcast's mission of helping educators transition into new leadership phases. A key insight is that leaders can feel "underused" and possess more to give beyond their current roles. The episode suggests that mastering tangible skills like this feedback cycle is part of preparing for a career transition. Dr. Mel emphasizes aligning one's skills and passions with new professional opportunities. The approach is framed as a way for educators to share their expertise in a new way and improve their leadership skills. The promise of effecting change on a larger level is a central motivator presented to the audience. The tone is direct, instructional, and motivational, blending coaching with personal anecdote. The style is conversational yet structured around teaching a clear, actionable framework. This episode is ideal for current or aspiring school administrators, instructional coaches, and teachers considering leadership roles. Listeners seeking theoretical discussions or educational policy debates might find it less aligned with their interests.
Listen to the show on