877.485.1973 ⎸ 541.485.1973
Info@NIFDI.org

Academies

Academies

Our Academies are designed to build the essential systems and expertise needed for successful Direct Instruction (DI) implementation. Each academy targets a critical role within a school or district, ensuring that leaders and educators are equipped to support strong, consistent instruction that drives student outcomes.

The Leadership Academy is designed for school and district leaders who play a key role in shaping the instructional environment. Participants learn how to focus decision-making on student outcomes, organize resources for efficient implementation, and create the conditions necessary for DI to succeed. By developing a clear action plan, leaders leave prepared to build systems that support teachers, strengthen instruction, and accelerate learning for all students.

The Coaching Academies are designed for instructional and peer coaches, lead teachers, and mentors who support day-to-day classroom practice. Effective coaching is one of the most important factors in sustaining a high-quality DI implementation. These sessions focus on building the skills needed to provide precise, consistent feedback and support so that all teachers improve. When coaching is strong, instruction becomes more consistent across classrooms, and student progress increases significantly.

Together, these academies ensure that both leadership and instructional support systems are aligned. This alignment is critical, without it, implementation can be uneven and outcomes limited. With it, schools create a cohesive, high-functioning system where teachers are supported, instruction is effective, and students achieve at higher levels.

Coaching Academy 1

Analyzing Data, Classroom Observations, and Providing Feedback
Designed for coaches and lead teachers to strengthen classroom instruction through data, observation, and targeted feedback.
Read More

Coaching Academy 2

Enhanced Coaching and Facilitating Professional Development
Designed for coaches and lead teachers to strengthen classroom instruction through data, observation, and targeted feedback.
Read More

Leadership Academy

Designed for leaders to apply established Direct Instruction systems that improve teaching and accelerate learning.
Read More

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.