Joy Jar
A month-long activity where staff write down joyful moments and add them to a shared jar.
Ongoing
Gratitude Notes
A set of free printable thank-you cards leaders can leave for staff throughout the year.
Megan Rogers
A set of six printable thank-you notes leaders can use to recognize staff throughout the year. Fill one out and leave it somewhere a staff member will find it: a mailbox, a desk, or tucked into a folder.
Why try it
Give staff a meaningful, handwritten reminder that their work is noticed and appreciated. Keeping a variety of note styles on hand makes it easy to recognize someone in the moment with a thoughtful message that feels personal. A handwritten note left where they'll discover it can become a lasting reminder that the little things they do each day truly matter.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Print the notes
Print the included set of six note styles and keep a stack on hand throughout November.
2
Choose a note style
Pick whichever card fits the moment, from a quick "High Five" to a longer "Kudos" note with space to write more.
3
Write something specific
Fill in the note with a specific detail: what the staff member did, and the impact it had.
4
Deliver it
Leave the note somewhere the staff member will find it, like their mailbox, desk, or classroom door.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Staff meeting reveal
Write a few notes ahead of a staff meeting and hand them out in person instead of leaving them behind.
Peer notes
Give staff blank cards and invite them to write a note for a colleague, then deliver them as a group.
Family shoutout
Use the "Because of You" card to recognize a staff member's work with a specific family or student, and offer to share it with that family too.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Keep a stack on hand
Store a few printed notes in your bag, desk, or pocket so you can recognize staff in the moment. A simple note written at just the right time can make someone feel seen and appreciated.
Leader Tip #2
Be specific
Name the exact thing the person did rather than a general compliment, so the note feels personal.
Leader Tip #3
Spread them out
Spread your notes throughout the month by setting a small, achievable goal, like writing one each day. A little consistency makes it easier to recognize meaningful moments as they happen.
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
Shoutouts
A teacher recognition program that runs itself.
Give teachers an opportunity to recognize their colleagues and collect them in your dashboard automatically. Easily print and share these encouraging words with your team.
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