Mascot Pass
A weekly recognition tradition that keeps appreciation moving all year long.
5 min
What's Your W.I.N.?
An activity that combines recognition and a way to check in on staff.
Jennifer Cramer-Brink
This activity combines staff recognition and a way to check in on staff. W.I.N. is a two-prompt activity that gives every team member a way to celebrate a colleague or share what they need. It runs digitally or on paper, takes about 10 minutes, and can be used in a staff meeting, a 1:1, or as an ongoing system throughout the year.
Why try it
A strong school culture is built when everyone has a voice and recognition becomes part of the everyday. This activity helps staff celebrate one another, share what's on their minds, and gives leaders valuable insight into how to better support their team.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Things you'll need
Digital form (Google Forms, Microsoft Forms, or Padlet) or the included printable cards
Optional: bulletin board space or a designated drop box for physical submissions
Instructions
1
Introduce the two prompts
Explain that W.I.N. stands for two things: What I Noticed (a shout-out for a teammate) and What I Need (a personal ask or check-in). What I Need responses go directly to you and stay private. What I Noticed responses may be shared with the team.
2
Set up your collection method
Choose how staff will submit their W.I.N. A digital form works well for ongoing use and keeps responses organized. The included printable cards work for in-person meetings or a drop box in the staff lounge. Use one or both depending on what fits your team.
3
Give staff time to respond
Invite staff to complete one or both prompts. Allow 5-10 minutes for reflection and submission. Let them know they can submit as often as they'd like, not just during this activity.
4
Follow up and share
Read through submissions and follow up privately on any What I Need responses. Share What I Noticed shout-outs with the team during a staff meeting, in the weekly memo, or on a W.I.N. bulletin board using the included printables.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Bulletin board display
Use the included bulletin board printables to create a W.I.N. wall in the staff lounge or hallway. Rotate new shout-outs weekly to keep it fresh.
Staff meeting opener
Use W.I.N. as a regular opening move at staff meetings. Ask one person to read a What I Noticed shout-out before the agenda starts.
1:1 check-in prompt
Work the What I Need prompt into your regular 1:1 conversations as a standing question to open the meeting.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Start with an example
Before staff submit, share one example of each prompt so they know what a response looks like. It lowers the barrier and gets participation moving faster.
Leader Tip #2
Keep it private
Staff will be more candid if they trust the process. Make it clear upfront that What I Need goes only to you.
Built by Educators, for School Leaders
This resource was created in collaboration with passionate educators and school leaders who believe in the power of intentional connection.
Jennifer Cramer-Brink
Special Education Teacher
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