Collaborative coaching that transforms English Learner instruction

At Pauoa Elementary, educators knew that supporting English Learners meant more than just good intentions—it required purposeful planning, collaboration, and expert guidance. Through Collaborative Coaching Cycles, teachers engaged in sustained professional learning with their QTEL facilitator, working together to refine their practice and ensure that English Learners had access to rigorous, meaningful instruction.

The impact has been clear. Hawaii’s data performance system—Strive HI—shows a rise in English Learners on track for English proficiency from 44% in 2020–21 to 71.4% in 2023–24. More importantly, students are engaging in deeper learning, supported by teachers who are confident in scaffolding complex content.

“By engaging in the QTEL Collaborative Coaching Cycles, my educators are better equipped to meet the diverse needs of our students, especially English Learners.”

– Linell Dilwith, KMR Complex Area Superintendent

When educators learn together, their students thrive. Read how Pauoa Elementary transformed teaching and learning through collaborative coaching: https://www.qtel.wested.org/success-story-pauoa-elementary