Difficult conversations are part of every educator’s world—whether with students, families, colleagues, or administrators—and the right words can make all the difference. In this course, participants will explore practical communication strategies from some of today’s most trusted voices on leadership, communication, and human connection, including Jefferson Fisher, Brené Brown, Jennifer Gonzalez, and other experts in the field.

Through readings, podcasts, reflection, discussion, and classroom-based action research, educators will examine how listening, empathy, clarity, curiosity, and intentional language influence the outcomes of challenging conversations. Each week focuses on a different communication context—students, families, administrators, and colleagues—while providing tools participants can immediately apply to real-world situations.

Participants will develop greater confidence in navigating conflict, repairing relationships, advocating for students, and building professional partnerships. Throughout the course, educators will engage in a cycle of reflection, implementation, evidence collection, and refinement to strengthen their own communication practices.

This course is appropriate for all teachers, K-12. Teacher librarians, instructional coaches, and administrators will also find value in this high-leverage course.

Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

• Analyze the role of listening, emotional regulation, empathy, and intentional language in successful difficult conversations.
• Apply restorative communication practices to support student accountability, relationship repair, and classroom community.
• Develop strategies for communicating effectively with families, including delivering difficult information with clarity, compassion, and professionalism.
• Use perspective-taking frameworks to better understand and navigate conversations with administrators and colleagues.
• Recognize how professional relationships and school culture influence communication, collaboration, and educator effectiveness.
• Reflect on personal communication strengths and areas for growth through ongoing action research and evidence-based reflection.
• Utilize communication tools—including AI-supported preparation, intentional wait time, and appropriate communication methods—to improve future conversations.