Taco + Nacho Bar
Let staff build their own lunch and connect over food.
30–45 min
Crocktober
A crockpot potluck with a free sign-up sheet, a cozy way to bring your staff together in October each year.
Alissa Christensen
An October-themed potluck where every dish comes out of a crockpot. Staff sign up ahead of time so you end up with a table full of warm, ready-to-serve food instead of last-minute takeout trays.
Why try it
Give staff a low-effort way to bring something warm to your next fall gathering. A crockpot keeps dishes warm throughout the event so no one has to worry about re-heating food or making last minute trips to the microwave. A shared October theme gives the whole event a fun seasonal touch, and a simple feel without extra planning. A sign-up sheet helps create a variety of dishes so everyone can enjoy something different.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Things you'll need
Printed sign-up sheet
Extension cords or outlets for multiple crockpots
Serving spoons and small labels for each dish
Bowls, plates, and napkins
A table for the spread
Instructions
1
Set your date and sign-up deadline
Pick a date in October and a cutoff for sign-ups a few days ahead of time, so everyone knows what's coming before the day arrives.
2
Share the sign-up sheet
Post the included sign-up sheet in the staff lounge or send a digital version. Staff write their name and the food item they're bringing.
3
Check for variety
Review the sheet as sign-ups come in. If several staff sign up for a similar dish, reach out and suggest a swap.
4
Set up and serve
On the day of, plug in each crockpot and set out a label and serving spoon next to it, along with bowls and napkins nearby.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Soup and chili swap
Narrow the theme to just soups and chilis so staff can compare and vote on a favorite.
Dessert crockpot
Add a dessert-only crockpot station with warm dishes like cobbler or bread pudding alongside the main spread.
Monthly crockpot club
Turn Crocktober into a recurring monthly potluck that continues through the colder months.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Check your outlets
Count how many crockpots you'll need power for and set up a power strip or extension cords ahead of time.
Leader Tip #2
Label every dish
Include allergens or main ingredients on each label so staff can serve themselves with confidence.
Leader Tip #3
Include non-classroom staff
Make sure custodial, office, and cafeteria staff see the sign-up sheet too. They're often left off building-wide emails.
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
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