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Direct Instruction Perspectives Substack Launched

Direct Instruction Perspectives Substack Launched

NIFDI President Kurt Engelmann released the first post of his new Substack, Direct Instruction Perspectives.

In his initial post, Kurt writes:

I am excited to announce a new Substack: Direct Instruction Perspectives on Education! The Substack will address issues that are specific to effective instruction as well as broader issues in the field of education.

He goes on to write:

The initial posts to this Substack are free to all. Subsequent posts will include freely accessible posts as well as posts accessible only through a paid subscription. Subscription proceeds will be used to support the work of the National Institute for Direct Instruction.

Please read, react, and spread the word about this important new resource!

Which best describes your role?

Curriculum Decision Maker
School and District Leader

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

Leaders
Coaches
Teachers
Parents
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.