School leaders often spend the final weeks of summer meticulously planning for student success: academic goals, intervention systems, instructional priorities. But just as critical, and too often overlooked, is the need to proactively plan for staff success. The start of the school year is the perfect time to develop a thoughtful, yearlong strategy for staff culture, appreciation, and morale. These efforts aren’t fluff; they are foundational to staff retention, recruitment, and overall satisfaction.
The best culture-building doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of intentionality and planning. One of the most powerful tools I’ve used as a school principal is a Year-at-a-Glance Staff Culture Calendar. This tool allows me to map out moments of recognition, celebration, and connection across the year before the chaos of the school year begins. It includes everything from back-to-school treats to monthly morale boosters, social media shout-outs, and themed dress-up days. It also includes the long list of appreciation days that are always so difficult to remember. By planning ahead, we ensure our staff feels valued consistently, not just during Teacher Appreciation Week.
Recognition is one of the strongest motivators. Create weekly rhythms of appreciation using social media—think staff shoutouts from students and families, teacher of the week posts, or your own campus-specific series. Use engaging graphics, hashtags, and candid photos to showcase the amazing work your teachers and staff are doing. This not only builds internal morale but also broadcasts your school’s values to your broader community. People want to work where others feel appreciated.
Small treats and surprise celebrations go a long way, especially when stress runs high. Whether it’s a hot cocoa bar in December or popcorn and prep during testing season, these small gestures communicate that you see your team and care about their well-being. Better yet, bring in a dose of fun and connection with lighthearted competitions, games, or staff challenges that allow your team to laugh and bond together. A staff lip-sync battle, rock-paper-scissors challenge, and March Madness Connect 4 tournament are some of our favorites. Culture is built as much in the silly moments as in the serious ones.
Of course, many of these things cost money, and with school budgets tighter than ever, that can feel like a barrier. But where resources are limited, creativity and community can fill the gap. Consider partnering with local churches, businesses, or civic organizations. These groups are often looking for ways to support schools and are happy to sponsor small treats, luncheons, or giveaways. Another powerful tool is a simple social media post or sponsorship letter at the start of the year, inviting families or local organizations to sponsor a treat, cover a staff lunch, or donate gift cards. You’ll be surprised how many are eager to contribute when they see the direct impact their support will have.
When you prioritize staff culture, you’re not just boosting morale, you’re building a brand. You’re telling the story: In this school, we love, value, and appreciate our staff. And that message travels fast. It attracts high-quality applicants, reduces turnover, and builds a positive climate where students thrive because adults feel supported. Culture isn’t created in a day, but it can be sustained through strategy. Plan ahead. Be intentional. And make this the year your staff feels the difference.
TEPSA member Maggie Walton is a principal in Granbury ISD. With over 15 years in education, she is passionate about cultivating culture, developing staff, and creating schools where students and teachers thrive.
