Coaching ROLE 10: LEARNER
Leading with Curiosity
For Joellen, learning has never been a phase; it’s a stance.
The Learner role underpins all the others. Whether serving as a coach, leader, or facilitator, Joellen consistently returns to the importance of curiosity, reflection, and openness. Learning begins when we’re willing to examine our assumptions and consider new perspectives.
In literacy leadership, modeling learning sends a powerful message. When leaders and coaches approach their work as learners, they create space for others to do the same. Questions replace certainty. Reflection replaces defensiveness. Growth becomes possible.
Joellen’s lifelong commitment to learning reminds us that improvement doesn’t come from having all the answers — it comes from staying engaged in the process.
Action Step:
Reflect on one belief you hold about literacy instruction. Ask yourself what evidence supports it, and what might challenge it.
We’ll close our learning journey together by embracing this learner stance on February 27, 2026, at the Learning Forward Georgia Winter PL Conference.