Sticky Note Check-In
An easy way to ask your staff how they’re doing.
10–15 min
Let's Talk Table
A low-key way to connect with staff and build real trust, one conversation at a time.
Alissa Christensen
Set up a small table in your staff lounge with conversation starter cards and an open invitation for staff to join you. No agenda, no evaluation, just a few minutes to talk. This simple habit helps school leaders build genuine relationships with their team without adding anything to the calendar.
Why try it
Staff want to feel known by their leader, not just managed. The Let's Talk Table gives you a regular, low-pressure way to connect outside of formal meetings and observations. These short, casual conversations build the kind of trust that makes the harder conversations easier later. When people feel comfortable talking with you, they are more likely to share what is actually going on.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Schedule your time
Block a few lunch periods or break times each month to sit with your staff. Share it in your weekly email or morning announcements so staff know when to find you: "I'll be at the Let's Talk Table on Wednesday during lunch. Bring your food and join me."
2
Pick your prompts and show up
Before each session, pick a prompt or two to bring to the table. When staff join you, let the conversation move naturally using the starter cards. Your job here is to listen and connect, not to lead or problem-solve. That shift in role makes a real difference in how staff experience the time with you.
3
Keep it fresh
Rotate in new conversation cards each month so the prompts stay interesting. Use the included Activity Notes sheet to jot down themes you are hearing. Those patterns can guide future decisions and follow-up conversations.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
New leader edition
Use the table during your first few months on the job to get to know staff quickly without the pressure of a formal meeting.
Staff meeting warm-up
Pull one conversation starter at the start of a staff meeting to get the room talking before diving into business.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Stay consistent
Showing up regularly matters more than showing up often. One or two sessions a month builds more trust than a big push once a quarter.
Leader Tip #2
Close the loop
If you hear something worth acting on, follow up later and let staff know you remembered. That is what turns a conversation into trust.
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.
Alissa Christensen
Head of Customer Success
Alpaca Pulse Check-In
Turn insights into action
With just three simple questions, Alpaca's Pulse Check-In helps school leaders listen to their teams and act where support is needed most.
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