Getting to know students
- What is something you’re looking forward to this school year?
- What is one thing you want me to know about you?
- What is something you’re really good at?
- What is something you want to learn or improve this year?
- What is one thing that makes you feel proud?
- Who is someone who supports you when things get tough?
- What is something that helps you feel comfortable in a new place?
Building connection and belonging
- What helps you feel like you belong in a classroom?
- What makes a classroom feel welcoming?
- What is one way we can show kindness to each other?
- How do you like to be encouraged when something is challenging?
- What is something a teacher can do that helps you feel supported?
- What is one thing you hope your classmates know about you?
Supporting mental health and emotions
- How are you feeling about starting this school year?
- What is something that helps you when you feel stressed or overwhelmed?
- What are some signs that tell you when you need a break?
- Who can you talk to when you need support?
- What helps you feel calm or focused?
- What is one small thing that can make a hard day better?
Setting goals and expectations
- What is one goal you have for yourself this year?
- What is something you want to try even if it feels challenging?
- What does success look like for you?
- What helps you stay motivated?
- What is one habit you want to build this year?
Creating a supportive classroom culture
- What does respect look like in our classroom?
- How can we make sure everyone feels included?
- What should we do when someone makes a mistake?
- How can we support each other when school feels difficult?
- What kind of classroom do we want to create together?
Quick check-ins educators can use throughout the year
- What’s one word to describe how you’re feeling today?
- What’s one thing that went well this week?
- What’s one thing that was challenging?
- What’s something you need help with right now?
- What’s one thing you’re proud of this week?
- What’s something you’re looking forward to?
