Crocktober
A crockpot potluck with a free sign-up sheet, a cozy way to bring your staff together in October each year.
30–45 min
Staff Taboo Showdown
A school-themed word game that gets staff laughing and competing!
Alissa Christensen
A school-themed word game that gets staff laughing and competing!
Why try it
Staff Taboo Showdown is a fun, low-prep way to get people talking and laughing before diving into the agenda. The school-themed words keep the game familiar and relatable, making it a great fit for staff meetings, back-to-school events, or a mid-year energy boost.
What's included
Browse the printables included with this resource.
Instructions
1
Print and cut the cards
Print the Taboo card pages and cut them apart before the meeting. Stack them face-down at the front of the room so they're ready to go.
2
Divide into teams
Split staff into two or more teams of 3-6 people. Smaller groups keep everyone engaged and make sure no one is waiting long for their turn.
3
Explain the rules
One player from Team A picks a card. The word at the top is what their team needs to guess. The five words listed below it are completely off-limits. A player from Team B sits beside them to monitor and calls out "Taboo!" if any forbidden words are used. That card gets skipped and the point is lost.
4
Set the timer and play
One minute on the clock. Team A's clue-giver describes as many cards as possible using any words except the forbidden ones. No abbreviations, sound effects, or gestures that give away the word. Their team calls out guesses the whole time.
5
Swap, tally, and repeat
When time is up, count Team A's points. Team B takes their turn with a new clue-giver. Keep rotating until everyone has had a chance, then add up the final scores to crown the winner.
Activity variations
Adapt to fit your school's vibe, budget, and setting.
Quick opener
Use just 6-8 cards for a single fast round at the start of a meeting. No full game needed. Even five minutes of this changes the room's energy.
Staff vs. admin
Put building leadership on one team and staff on the other for a round of friendly competition. A little role-based rivalry tends to get the loudest reactions.
Go deeper
Additional tips for running this resource.
Leader Tip #1
Demo it first
Walk through an example card with the whole group before you start. One quick demo prevents confusion and gets people immediately thinking about how they'd give clues.
Leader Tip #2
Mix the teams
Put people together who don't usually work side by side. The game gives them a reason to cheer each other on, and that connection carries into the meeting.
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
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