Grading Grind
A quick reflection activity with free printable cards to help staff reset and refocus.
10-15 min
Observation & Evaluation Jitters
A quick reflection activity with free printable cards for staff.
Megan Rogers
A short reflection activity built around three prompts on testing, evaluation, and staying calm under pressure. Hand out the included cards during a staff meeting or PD day and give staff a few quiet minutes to think through how they manage the jitters that come with being observed and evaluated.
Why try it
Give staff a chance to reflect on the strategies that help them feel calm and confident during testing and evaluation season. This simple activity encourages staff to share ideas, learn from one another, and discover practical tips they can use throughout the busy weeks ahead. It also creates space for supportive conversations about navigating this time together.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Print and cut the cards
Print the included Pause & Ponder cards and cut them apart so each staff member gets their own copy.
2
Hand out cards
Distribute a card to each staff member during a staff meeting, PD day, or team planning time.
3
Give quiet reflection time
Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and let staff write their answers to the three prompts on their own.
4
Share in small groups
Break into pairs or small groups and invite staff to share one answer that stood out to them.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Leadership version
Have grade-level leads or department chairs complete the cards first and share their answers to model honest reflection.
Written journal
Instead of a group discussion, invite staff to hold onto their card as a personal reminder. Revisiting it later in the year can be a great opportunity to reflect on what has changed and what has stayed the same.
Partner check-in
Pair staff up specifically to trade one routine each that helps them stay calm during a big test or observation.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Make sharing optional
Encourage staff to participate in the way that feels most comfortable to them. Whether they choose to share with the group or reflect quietly, the goal is to create space for thoughtful reflection.
Leader Tip #2
Time if before a known stretch
Hand out the cards a week or two before testing season or an observation window, so staff have time to reflect and put their ideas into practice.
Leader Tip #3
Collect a few strategies
Ask staff to submit one calming routine anonymously, then compile and share the list with the whole team.
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
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