Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7337-5056

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Smith, Kaleb

Committee Member

Leffler, Jeffrey

Committee Member

McCleon, Tawny

Committee Member

Milam, Alisha

Committee Member

Zhbanova, Ksenia

Date of Degree

5-16-2025

Original embargo terms

Immediate Worldwide Access

Document Type

Doctoral Capstone - Open Access

Major

Education (Educational Policy and Organizational Design)

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

College

College of Education

Department

Division of Education

Abstract

Alternate route teachers are adult learners who enter the teaching profession through nontraditional pathways, often without formal training in education. While they bring diverse experiences and a commitment to student success, they frequently face challenges in translating theoretical knowledge into effective classroom practice. Research indicates that instructional coaching serves as a critical bridge between pedagogical theory and practical application, providing job-embedded professional development that enhances instructional competencies. At its core, instructional coaching is a collaborative partnership built on trust and respect, offering teachers a supportive space to reflect on their practice, receive targeted feedback, and develop their professional identity. Alternate route teachers in residency programs present a unique opportunity for instructional coaching, as they are still supported by university instructors and mentor teachers before assuming full responsibility as the teacher of record. A coaching model tailored to this population can strengthen their self-efficacy and instructional decision-making. Mississippi alternate route programs do not currently offer formal instructional coaching programs; however, several offer mentoring services. This project presents a design for a supplemental coaching program within an existing residency model intended to improve instructional competencies and self-efficacy of alternate route teacher candidates.

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