Meet the Coaches Behind the Scenes: GMSD’s instructional coaches help teachers (and students)

They may not have whistles or clipboards, but GMSD’s instructional coaches are definitely MVPs when it comes to student success. Think of them as our teachers’ “Phone-a-Friend,” trusted collaborators who help transform lesson plans into learning breakthroughs.
Our district’s two K–8 instructional coaches, Gina Whitsell (ELA) and Karen Barbieri (Math), bring a blend of deep expertise, contagious enthusiasm, and a can-do attitude to classrooms across Germantown. Whether they’re co-teaching a literacy lesson, helping a team unpack new state standards, or analyzing student data alongside teachers, they make every day a chance to learn, grow, and inspire.

ELA: Empowering Literacy Leaders
If there’s a creative way to spark a love for reading, Gina’s probably tried it. She’s the go-to for strategies that boost comprehension, build vocabulary, and engage young writers. On any given day, you might find her in a PLC meeting designing assessments, modeling a lesson, or even helping a teacher write a grant to bring new literacy ideas to life. Her goal is to empower every teacher to feel confident leading their own literacy journey.

Math: Raising the Bar (and the Standard)
Meanwhile, Karen is busy making math make sense. She helps teachers interpret standards, align lessons with district assessments, and strengthen instructional routines. With new high-quality instructional materials rolling out, she ensures every classroom has the tools and confidence to bring abstract math concepts to life. Her steady presence in classrooms keeps instruction sharp and student learning at the forefront.

Together, Gina and Karen embody GMSD’s strategic plan in action, supporting equitable, student-centered classrooms where every learner can thrive. They’re not just supporting teachers; they’re building a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration that reaches every corner of our schools.