Isobel Stevenson

I was born in Scotland, but I haven't live there in a very long time. I read geography at Oxford and got my PGCE there also. I have a masters in special education from the University of Texas at Austin, where I also obtained my principal’s license. I have a PhD in human and organizational systems from Fielding Graduate University, and am a Professional Certified Coach.

I have lived in the US since 1990, in Texas, Colorado, and now Connecticut. I have been a teacher, a building leader, and a chief academic officer. I also served on the AP Committee of the College Board for AP Geography and was a consultant for National Geographic. I have taught in three different principal preparation programs: University of Denver, San Jose State University, and UConn.

I joined Partners for Educational Leadership (formerly Connecticut Center for School Change) in 2013. My work there includes equity, leadership coaching and training coaches; strategic planning and improvement; and supporting instructional improvement. I have co-authored three books: The Strategy Playbook, Making Coaching Matter, and Equitable School Improvement. I have written several articles on leadership and coaching which you can find on the Publications page on the PEL website.

I also write a newsletter for educational leaders and coaches, The Coaching Letter, on Substack, which you can sign up to receive in your inbox. It's free, and covers a wide range of topics, including equity, instruction, strategy, instructional leadership, psychology, and coaching.