Morning Mantras
A low-prep habit for school leaders: share a positive quote or phrase during morning or weekly announcements.
1-2 min
Helping Hands, Happy Hearts
A simple staff appreciation activity where teachers share small requests.
Elisha Suttles
This activity invites staff to write down a small request, from a favorite snack to a few extra minutes off duty, on a card and post it to a shared board. Leaders collect the cards and follow through, turning real staff input into real appreciation.
Why try it
Gather real staff input and turn it into moments of appreciation that match what people actually want. Leaders handle the planning and delivery, so a simple card turns into a coffee run, a duty swap, or an early release.
Use it as a monthly morale check, a staff meeting kickoff, part of an appreciation week, or a surprise pick-me-up during a demanding stretch.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Set up the board
Hang the included signage and set aside a bulletin board, easel paper, or wall space as the collection spot. Stock the area with "Helping Hands" cards, markers, and tape or push pins.
2
Invite staff to share
Introduce the activity at a staff meeting. Ask each person to write one small request on a card, something that would genuinely brighten their day, and post it to the board.
3
Collect and deliver
Take the cards down on a regular schedule, plan for each request, and deliver on it. Attach a treat tag if you're pairing the gesture with a snack or small treat.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Keep the ask open
Let staff know both small treats and simple acts of kindness count, like duty coverage or a few minutes of early release.
Leader Tip #2
Grade-level or department boards
Set up separate boards for different teams or grade levels so requests stay small and easy to manage.
Leader Tip #3
Private submissions
Swap the visible board for a drop box or a short online form so staff can submit requests without them being posted publicly.
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.
Elisha Suttles
Scholar & School Support Liaison
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