Kudos Retro
A recognition activity where staff write short kudos notes for colleagues.
10-15 min
Rose, Bud, Thorn Retro
A staff meeting idea to boost morale and end on a positive note.
Alissa Christensen
A reflection activity where staff sort their thoughts into three categories: Rose, Thorn, and Bud. It works well for staff meetings, the end of a unit, or reflecting on a school event, keeping the conversation balanced between celebrating wins and exploring new ideas.
Why try it
Give staff a structured way to reflect that balances the positive with the practical. Rose highlights what worked, Thorn surfaces real challenges, and Bud pushes the conversation toward new possibilities.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Share the topic
Let staff know what they're reflecting on, whether it's a staff meeting, a unit, a recent school event, or a recent goal.
2
Give staff time to reflect
Have staff write their responses on the included printables, or use sticky notes, sorting each one into Rose, Thorn, or Bud.
3
Review responses and choose what to continue
Share responses as a group, look for common themes, and discuss what the team wants to continue or explore next.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Table talk version
Skip the written printables and have staff share their Rose, Thorn, and Bud out loud at their tables, going through each category together as a group.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Save the cards
Keep a photo of the responses, or save the cards, and use the included tracker to reflect on staff responses over time.
Leader Tip #2
Post the Buds
Collect the Bud responses on a shared board so staff can see the ideas the team is planning to try next.
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
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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