Meaningful 1:1s
A simple way to connect, listen, and grow with your team.
15 min
Quick Check-In, Real Connection
Ready-to-use one-on-one check-in questions for every moment of the school year.
Abbey Sualy
A ready-to-use bank of one-on-one check-in questions organized by situation, so you always know what to ask. Pull one question before a hallway conversation, a quick classroom pop-in, or a scheduled check-in. These questions are built from real educator voice and what makes them feel seen.
Why try it
Teachers and staff consistently say the check-ins that matter most are brief, genuine, and personal. Having a go-to question ready makes it easier to show up consistently with staff, and consistency is what builds trust over time. Use this resource to help guide conversations, deepen relationships, and support your team.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Grab the question bank
Print or save it so it is easy to access throughout your day, on your desk, in your pocket, or on your phone.
2
Pick your person and your question
Identify one staff member you want to connect with, think about what is happening for them right now, and choose one question that fits the moment.
3
Go to them and listen
Walk to their classroom or find them somewhere natural. Ask your question, give it space, and jot a quick note afterward so you can circle back next time.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
New teacher focus
Use the "building connection" questions weekly during a new teacher's first semester to help them feel supported and seen early on.
Staff meeting opener
Pick one question from the bank and invite a quick round of responses at the start of a staff meeting to warm up the room and build connection across the whole team.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Pick a good moment
Find staff when they have a natural break, during planning time, between classes, or as they are heading to pick up their students.
Leader Tip #2
One question is enough
Pick a question that feels right for that person in that moment and let the conversation build from there.
Leader Tip #3
Write it down
After a check-in, jot a quick note about what the teacher shared. Bringing it up next time is what turns a habit into a relationship.
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.
Abbey Sualy
Early Childhood Educator
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