Quick Check-In, Real Connection
Ready-to-use one-on-one check-in questions for every moment of the school year.
5 min
Meaningful 1:1s
A simple way to connect, listen, and grow with your team.
Megan Rogers
A simple way to connect, listen, and grow with your team. In just 15 minutes a month, you'll build trust, surface needs early, and make every staff member feel truly seen.
Why try it
When leaders make time for consistent 1:1s, teachers are more likely to share challenges before they grow, bring their voice forward, and feel truly supported. It's a 15-minute investment that leads to stronger relationships, fewer surprises, and a school culture that feels connected, calm, and collaborative.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Know the goal
Decide what you most want to change or strengthen. Is it trust? Communication? Culture? Having a clear purpose helps you measure impact over time.
2
Celebrate the idea
Let staff know 1:1s are a positive opportunity to connect — not something to stress about. Share the format and the why before the first meeting.
3
Build a system
Set your frequency, decide who leads them, and lock in your agenda. Aim for a variety of questions that build connection, celebrate wins, and ask them for ideas and goals. Check out our question bank to build the perfect agenda for your team.
4
Take a field trip
Pick a location that puts each person at ease. Private conversations deserve privacy; lighter check-ins might work well on a walk. You know your team best.
5
Take notes
Keep a dedicated doc or notebook just for 1:1s. A few key words per month makes it easy to follow up and show you remembered.
6
Don't miss it
Consistency is the whole game. If you miss one, reschedule immediately — and never miss two in a row.
7
Show that you're listening
At a staff meeting, share a theme or idea that came up in your 1:1s and what you're doing about it. When staff feel heard, they'll look forward to next month's conversation.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Small teams
If you have a smaller team, aim for a monthly 1:1 with every staff member.
Large Teams
For larger teams, alternate months (half the staff one month, half the next) or share responsibility with assistant principals, coaches, or team leads.
Hybrid mix
Mix leader-led and peer-to-peer 1:1s for broader coverage while keeping connection consistent.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Vary the questions
Rotate in additional questions around belonging, voice, wellbeing, student impact, and goals to keep conversations fresh.
Leader Tip #2
Say thanks
Write the staff member's name and one specific "thank you" after each meeting so recognition feels personal, not generic
Leader Tip #3
Keep it short and consistent
15 minutes is the goal — protect it like you'd protect any important meeting
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.
Megan Rogers
Teacher
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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