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In-Service Training

In-Service Training

Effective implementation of Direct Instruction (DI) requires ongoing training and support. NIFDI in-service training helps educators build on their initial training, strengthen instructional skills, and address challenges as they arise throughout the school year.

Training is tailored to the needs of each school and can be provided for a small group of teachers or instructional staff, a specific program level, or an entire school staff. Sessions may focus on a specific instructional technique or lesson format, or address broader topics such as student engagement, teaching to mastery, effective praise, and providing appropriate think time.

Training topics are based on the needs of staff and students rather than a predetermined schedule. NIFDI trainers use classroom observations, student performance data, and educator feedback to identify areas where additional support can have the greatest impact.

Sessions can range from brief, focused training to full-day professional development and emphasize hands-on practice, feedback, and direct application of DI techniques. This individualized, ongoing support helps educators strengthen their skills and maintain effective implementation throughout the school year.

The Value of Ongoing Training

Initial in-service training provides an important foundation for successful DI implementation, but continued professional development helps educators build expertise and strengthen their practice over time. Ongoing, targeted training allows schools to address emerging needs, reinforce effective instructional practices, and support educators as they gain experience. NIFDI’s continued training and support help schools build the knowledge and skills needed for strong, sustainable implementation.

Interested in learning how to implement Direct Instruction in your district, school, or home? NIFDI can help. Click a button below to learn more. 

What is a Peer Coach?

Peer coaches play a critical role in sustaining strong implementation of Direct Instruction (DI) at the school level. Selected during the first year of implementation, peer coaches are classroom teachers who demonstrate strong instructional practice, effective communication with colleagues, and a willingness to support others. Because they teach the same programs as their peers, they bring practical expertise and shared experience that help build trust and collaboration across the school.

As implementation progresses, peer coaches extend the impact of NIFDI consultants by providing ongoing, school-based support when consultants are not on-site. Their coaching is non-evaluative and focused on improving student outcomes. Peer coaches reinforce effective teaching practices and guide colleagues to make targeted adjustments that directly impact student performance and behavior.

Peer coaches participate in a structured, multi-year training sequence through NIFDI. Over the course of two to three years, they are trained to analyze student performance data, conduct both brief and extended classroom observations, and support data-driven problem solving. Advanced training prepares them to lead grade-level meetings and contribute to broader instructional planning with school leadership.

By developing peer coaches, schools build internal capacity to maintain and strengthen DI implementation over time—ensuring continuity, supporting new staff, and driving sustained student achievement.