From "Figure It Out" to Feeling Supported: Introducing 1:1 Leadership Coaching for Administrators

When I first stepped into school leadership, I thought I was ready. I had the degrees, the experience, and the drive. Were there times I questioned whether I was ready to leave the classroom? Of course! I often tell my grad students that it’s common to experience a sudden feeling of panic. It’s that moment of, “What am I doing? Am I actually ready for this?” that comes with leaving your comfort zone. However, embracing that uncertainty and pushing forward can lead to some incredible outcomes.

Equipped with all of the essential qualifications for an administrative role, there were some important elements missing from my toolbox: A roadmap, a trusted ally, and a cheerleader.

Like many new, and even veteran, administrators, I found myself tackling complex situations, supporting staff, resolving crises, and making decisions that impacted hundreds of students, often with little guidance and few opportunities for reflection. 

There was no clear guideline for managing difficult conversations with staff. There wasn’t a mentor in the next office helping me balance competing priorities. And, crucially, there definitely wasn’t anyone reminding me that self-care is vital for effective leadership.

The common message was, “This is on you now. Figure it out.” 

Why I’m Providing 1:1 Coaching for Administrators

Looking back, I realize that what I needed wasn’t another leadership book or a fly-by PD on decision-making. I needed someone to talk to. A conversational partner who understood the everyday reality and complexity of school leadership, who could help me problem-solve in real time, and who wouldn’t judge when I admitted I was second guessing my next steps.

This led me to create tailored 1:1 coaching for administrators through Lella Education Consulting.

Whether you’re a new supervisor, a first-year assistant principal, or a freshly appointed district-level leader balancing competing priorities, this coaching is designed to give you:

• A sounding board for tough decisions

• Practical strategies for managing staff, students, and parents

• Support in achieving work-life balance (because it truly does matter)

• Resources to enhance your confidence and leadership presence

What It’s Not

This isn’t generic advice.

This isn’t a leadership seminar.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach.

This isn’t an AI-generated eBook. 

It’s face-to-face (either in-person or virtual), confidential, customized support to help you tackle the real, everyday challenges you face as a leader with a life outside the office.

What It Is

• It’s space to think aloud with someone who’s been there.

• It’s a place to get honest, practical, actionable feedback.

• It’s leadership support that meets you where you are, whether that means preparing for a tough staff conversation, organizing your time, or just figuring out how to keep all the balls in the air.

Who This Is For

• New administrators navigating their first year

• Assistant principals balancing discipline, instruction, and everything in between

• Principals seeking collaborative support

• District leaders leading teams or new initiatives

• Anyone in school leadership who could use a safe, solutions-oriented space for reflection and planning

Getting Started

If you’re ready for support that’s real and relevant, let’s talk.

Use the form below to schedule a free discovery call or email me directly at rachel@drlella.com. 

You deserve someone in your corner coaching you through, because leadership should never mean doing it all alone.