Change Absolutely
Certified Life/Success Coach ~ Educational Leadership Consultant ~ Climate & Culture Specialist
About Kathy Baumgardner
With 30+ years in education, Kathy Baumgardner has been a lifelong advocate, transforming underprivileged youth through mentorship. As a Certified Success Coach, and published author, she helps individuals unlock their potential and build actionable growth plans. Her experience as a teacher, vice principal, and principal showcases her dedication to student development and educational leadership.
Published Author
Kathy is a contributing author to the impactful book, Leading with Head and Heart, written by leadership expert Anthony J. Colannino. In this work, Kathy shares her inspiring perspective on the transformative journey toward impactful, purpose-driven leadership. Blending real-world stories with practical strategies, the book empowers leaders to nurture the potential of those they serve. Kathy's insights help readers discover new direction and grow their personal leadership skills in a way that uplifts both themselves and their community.
Global Speaker & Training Expert
Kathy presented at the "Operation Cooperation: Bridging The Gap" convention, hosted by the National CSI World Leadership Training, Consulting, & Executive Protection Group in the British Virgin Islands. She led a panel discussion on "Best Practices: The Role of Police and Security Officers in School Safety." The session focused on the "triad concept," emphasizing collaboration between school administrators, security personnel, and law enforcement. Attendees gained practical techniques for ensuring school safety and managing challenges, aiming to improve school environments for both students and staff.
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Asbury Park Press

Barack H. Obama school reopens in Asbury Park

Notable Accomplishments
Educational Leadership Excellence
  • Achieved 35% higher student attendance and 28% fewer disciplinary incidents through strategic planning.
  • Managed $800K budget focusing on classroom resources and staff development.
  • 75 Educators led in curriculum alignment and climate & culture initiatives.
  • 46% Student Achievement Growth: Improved test scores across 3 schools through data-driven instruction and targeted interventions.
Successful Specialized Program Development
  • Launched School-wide SEL curriculum serving 500+ students, reducing incidents by 40%.
  • Created crisis intervention protocol adopted by the district.
  • 79% Decrease in student suspensions resulting from the successful implementation of Restorative Justice Practices, SEL, and PBSIS.
Let's Get Started!

Transforming Your School Climate: A Strategic Roadmap

Step 1: Needs Assessment & Planning Conduct initial meetings, observe classrooms, and develop a customized professional development and coaching plan. Step 2: Implementation Phase Deliver professional development sessions, introduce revised behavior modification strategies, and begin coaching sessions. Step 3: Monitoring & Evaluation Evaluate the program impact, adjust strategies as needed, and submit a comprehensive report with recommendations for continued success. Measurable Impact & Results Increased student engagement, self-regulation, and academic progress through enhanced support systems. Strengthened school culture that promotes safety, respect, and inclusivity across all spaces and interactions. Enhanced family engagement and collaboration with school staff, creating strong partnerships for student success. Improved staff efficacy in behavior management and instructional delivery through targeted professional development and coaching.

Coaching Packages

Select the package that best fits your professional development needs and goals. Quick Start Option 30-minute consultation to explore goals and create your initial development roadmap. Standard Package 6 bi-weekly sessions with personalized guidance and comprehensive support materials. Best Value Package 8 bi-weekly sessions with comprehensive transformational coaching and extended support for deep personal and professional growth. Culture Climate Assessment Strategic organizational assessment with detailed, actionable report for enhanced workplace effectiveness. Start with a free consultation to assess your needs. Contact for more information!

Welcome Packet

Welcome to Change Absolutely! I'm truly honored that you've chosen to embark on this journey with me. This isn't just coaching - it's a transformational partnership designed to help you align with your most authentic self and create the life you envision. At Change Absolutely, we believe in growth through self-awareness, resilience, and purposeful action. Our work together will be guided by honesty, compassion, and a deep commitment to your unique path forward. You're not here to be fixed - you're here to rise, evolve, and live more fully in your truth. Before we begin, please take a moment to respond to the following questions. Your insights will help me better understand your goals and how I can best support you. Getting to Know You What inspired you to seek coaching at this point in your life? When you imagine a deeply fulfilling life, what does it look and feel like? What are 2-3 challenges, patterns, or roadblocks that you've been facing consistently? How do you typically respond to change – do you embrace it, resist it, fear it, or something else? What do you hope to gain from our coaching relationship? Next Steps & Contact: Once you've completed this welcome packet, feel free to email it back to me or bring it to our first session. I look forward to partnering with you in transformation. With Gratitude,Kathy A. BaumgardnerOwner and Founder | Transformational Coachwww.changeabsolutely.com

Professional Coaching Agreement

Client & Coaching Information Agreement Terms and Conditions Purpose of the Agreement This agreement establishes the terms and conditions under which the Coach will provide professional coaching services to the Client. Coaching is a collaborative, client-centered process that supports the Client in identifying and reaching personal, professional, and transformational goals. About Change Absolutely Change Absolutely is founded on the core belief that "nothing is absolute but change." This philosophy grounds the coaching experience in the reality that growth, transformation, and possibility are always accessible. Through intentional guidance, honest exploration, and strategic support, Change Absolutely empowers individuals to navigate change, maximize potential, and lead lives of purpose and fulfillment. Nature of Coaching Coaching is a professional, results-driven relationship that helps the Client clarify goals, identify obstacles, and develop strategies for success. It is distinct from therapy, counseling, or consulting. Coaching does not involve the diagnosis or treatment of mental disorders and is not a substitute for psychological counseling or other professional services. If such services are needed, the Coach will refer the Client to appropriate professionals. Confidentiality All communication between the Client and Coach will remain strictly confidential, unless required by law (e.g., in situations involving imminent danger, abuse, or court order). The Coach will not disclose the Client's name or details of the coaching relationship without express written permission. Coaching Services Format: Sessions will be held via Zoom/phone/in person, depending on the Client's preference. Session Length: 60 minutes Frequency: As mutually agreed Location: [Virtual or agreed location] Fees and Payment Rate: $__________ per session or $__________ for a package of ___ sessions Payment Due: Prior to session or package start Payment Methods: [e.g., credit card, Zelle, PayPal] Refunds: Available for unused, prepaid sessions with written notice Rescheduling and Cancellations Client agrees to provide a minimum of 24 hours' notice to cancel/reschedule. Cancellations under 24 hours may be charged. Coach will provide adequate notice if rescheduling is necessary. Commitment and Responsibilities Coach Responsibilities: Provide a supportive, respectful, confidential coaching environment Be present, engaged, and ethical per ICF guidelines Client Responsibilities: Be open and proactive Attend scheduled sessions on time Own their actions and growth. Termination of Agreement Either party may terminate the agreement with written notice. Unused sessions may be refunded unless agreed otherwise. The coach may terminate for non-compliance or disengagement. Limitation of Liability Coach makes no guarantees. Client assumes full responsibility for decisions, actions, and outcomes. Coach is not liable for any perceived or actual loss from coaching services. Entire Agreement This document represents the entire agreement. Amendments must be in writing and signed by both parties. Signatures Business Name: Change Absolutely Client Signature Client Name: ____________________________ Client Signature: _________________________ Date: ____________ Coach Signature Coach Name: Kathy Baumgardner, Title: Founder & Certified Professional Coach, (CPC), Change Absolutely Coach Signature: _________________________ Date: ___________

Testimonials
Mark A. Williams, Deputy Superintendent, Plainfield Public Schools
"I am deeply grateful to Kathy Baumgardner for her unwavering support, professional coaching, and invaluable advice throughout my dissertation journey. Kathy's ability to ask the right questions, challenge my thinking, and provide strategic guidance helped me navigate the complexities of the research and writing process with confidence.
Her encouragement was more than just words, it was a steady presence that kept me motivated during the most difficult moments. She understood the demands of balancing professional responsibilities with academic pursuits, and her insights helped me stay focused and disciplined. Kathy's expertise and mentorship were instrumental in refining my ideas, strengthening my arguments, and ultimately completing my dissertation.
I can say with certainty that Kathy's coaching made a lasting impact on my academic and professional growth. Her belief in my work and her commitment to excellence inspired me to push forward, and for that, I will always be grateful."
Angela Thomas, Vice Principal
"Kathy Baumgardner's visionary leadership transformed our school's climate and culture. Under her principalship, she managed an $8 million budget, increased enrollment by 27%, and reduced suspensions by 79% through the implementation of Restorative Justice Practices. Her collaborative leadership style rebuilt trust within our community."
Nancy Estrada, Supervisor of Curriculum
"I wholeheartedly recommend Kathy Baumgardner for any school looking to enrich their climate and culture through a series of training sessions. Kathy’s passion for education and commitment to empowering others truly shines through her sessions.
The insight and the support provided by Ms. Baumgardner left our educators feeling inspired and equipped with new tools to enhance their practices and relationships with their students. I greatly appreciated the actionable insights. It was an invaluable contribution to our school community!"
Kariemah Muhammad, Teacher
"Working with Kathy as my Life Success Coach during my transition from teaching after 33 years was a game-changer. Her empathetic approach and guidance helped me develop a clear retirement plan. A year later, I can confidently say that retiring was the best decision I've made, thanks to Kathy's expert coaching."
Eileen Borders, Restaurant Owner
"Through Kathy's professional coaching, I turned my passion for cooking into a successful business. Her guidance helped me create an action plan to build Eileen's Soul Food Catering from the ground up and expand it into a full-service restaurant."
Anthony Fraser, Former Student
"Mrs. Baumgardner has been more than a principal; she's been a lifelong mentor. She has been one of my greatest supporters through my educational journey and continues to inspire me as I pursue my career in law enforcement."
Dakira Carter, Former Student
"Before I graduated, I knew I wanted more for myself, but I didn’t know where to start. I told Ms. Baumgardner, ‘I need your help to elevate.’ I needed guidance, support, and a way to break free from the environment that was holding me back. She didn’t just listen—she stepped in and helped me redefine what life skills really mean.
Ms. Baumgardner coached me through one of the hardest transitions of my life, helping me set goals, make healthier choices, and see the patterns in my life that were either pushing me forward or holding me back. She showed me that life skills go beyond the basics; they’re about resilience, emotional intelligence, and learning how to navigate life’s toughest moments with clarity and confidence.
Thanks to her, I’m making real changes, not just talking about them. She believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself, and because of that, I’m stepping into adulthood with a new mindset, ready to create the future I deserve."
Nolan E., Instructional Coach
"I have had the pleasure of attending training and leadership workshops facilitated by Kathy Baumgardner. I can confidently say that not only was it effective but it really resonated with the needs of our school. It was the right blend of practical applications and interactive activities.
Kathy possesses the unique ability to engage the participants while creating an environment that encourages collaboration and open dialogue. I walked away from her meticulously crafted training ready to apply what I had learned immediately."
Contact Kathy
Ready to transform your educational environment or take your professional development to the next level?
Let's Connect
Together, we can create meaningful and lasting change in your educational community.
  • Phone: 732-546-7946
  • Consultation: Contact me to book your consultation