John Stegeman, PhD

Holistic Academic Coaching for Students, Families, and Educators
315.415.2596 – hjs.327@gmail.com

https://cachaischoolcoaching.wordpress.com/

Dr. John Stegeman brings over twenty years of experience in secondary and higher education as a history teacher and high school principal. As both a neurodivergent learner and the parent of two neurodivergent students, he offers a deeply informed and empathetic perspective on the academic journey.

Throughout his career, John has recognized that meaningful student growth requires ongoing, holistic support that extends beyond the classroom. As an academic coach, he helps students, families, and educators develop self-awareness and translate that insight into practical strategies, habits, and mindsets that support long-term success. He believes that adolescents thrive within a collaborative network and works to foster alignment and shared purpose among students, parents, and school professionals.

Services

When students encounter academic challenges, support efforts often focus on assessment and information gathering—teacher feedback, parent meetings, and, in some cases, neuropsychological evaluations. While these steps are essential, they represent only the starting point for sustainable change.

John’s coaching builds on this foundation by emphasizing student strengths and developing a comprehensive understanding of each student’s experiences. His intake process explores not only academic history but also family dynamics and patterns of engagement with school. Using a family systems approach, John supports improved communication, reduced conflict, and stronger collaboration within the family unit.

His work reframes academic success as a shared effort, helping families function as cohesive teams while equipping students with the tools and confidence to navigate their learning more effectively.

Getting Started

John offers a complimentary 15-minute consultation via phone or video for families interested in learning more about his services.

The next step is a 90-minute in-person intake session with the student and parent(s) or guardian(s). Prior to this session, families complete a questionnaire to provide background information. During the intake, John meets with family members both together and individually to understand how academic challenges are impacting each person.

Following the intake, John provides individualized recommendations for ongoing coaching. Most families begin with weekly sessions and transition to bi-weekly or monthly meetings over time. Sessions focus on current experiences, emotional impacts, and the development of practical systems and habits that support academic progress and well-being.

Experience & Credentials

Dr. Stegeman earned his PhD in Latin American History from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. He previously held teaching certifications in New York and Colorado and taught world, European, and U.S. history at both the high school and college levels.

For the past twelve years, he has served as a high school principal at independent schools in Upstate New York and Western Washington. He also works with the Northwest Association of Independent Schools as a leadership coach, conference planner, and facilitator.

John has published on topics including history, teaching and learning, and school leadership in national journals and professional publications. He is committed to fostering meaningful learning through strong, trust-based relationships and finds great fulfillment in helping students and families experience growth, stability, and success.