Hey everyone. Let’s be honest—staff meetings suck and often feel like a waste of time. They should bring people together, share valuable information, and improve the school. Instead, they drain energy, frustrate teachers, and make everyone question their life choices.

The good news? It does not have to be this way. I am on a mission to improve the climate and culture of schools everywhere, and today’s focus is staff meetings. Here is why staff meetings suck and how to fix them.

1. This Could Have Been an Email

Teachers are busy. If the entire meeting consists of reading a long list of updates, reminders, and upcoming events, it should not be a meeting. Nobody wants to sit through an hour of information that could have been skimmed in an email.

Solution:

Use meetings for collaboration, discussion, and problem-solving, not just information-dumping. If a topic does not require discussion, send it in an email instead. If people need to confirm they have read something, ask them to reply or complete a quick survey. Keep meetings for meaningful conversations, not administrative announcements.

2. The Never-Ending Meeting

A 30-minute meeting should not turn into 90 minutes of rambling and side conversations. Teachers have work to do, and dragging a meeting on for too long creates frustration, resentment, and disengagement.

Solution:

Set a firm time limit for every meeting. Start on time, stay on track, and end on time. If discussions run long, schedule a follow-up session with only those involved. A timer or visible clock can help keep things moving. Respecting time makes meetings more productive and earns appreciation from staff.

3. Admin Monologues: The Extended Edition

Many meetings feel like a one-person show, where the administrator talks endlessly, and teachers sit silently. One-way communication does not encourage engagement and certainly does not make meetings effective.

Solution:

Create opportunities for discussion and feedback. Use breakout groups, structured Q&A sessions, or interactive activities to involve teachers. Ask open-ended questions and encourage staff to share their perspectives. Meetings should be a conversation, not a lecture.

4. Buzzword Bingo, But Make It Painful

Education buzzwords like "rigor," "data-driven instruction," and "fidelity" are used so often that they lose meaning. Throwing around these terms without clear explanations does not help teachers.

Solution:

Use clear, practical language. Instead of saying "increase student engagement," give specific strategies teachers can use in the classroom. Provide concrete examples and show real-world applications. Clarity leads to action.

5. New Initiatives… Again

Nothing frustrates teachers more than constantly changing programs and policies. Just when staff gets used to one initiative, a new one replaces it. These constant changes cause confusion and burnout.

Solution:

Before introducing a new initiative, evaluate if it is necessary. Focus on refining what already works instead of constantly adding something new. When changes are needed, provide proper training, clear explanations, and a timeline for implementation. Involve teachers in the decision-making process to increase buy-in and effectiveness.

6. Paperwork Overload

A meeting should not turn into a paperwork distribution event. When teachers leave with a pile of forms, surveys, and data sheets, it adds unnecessary stress.

Solution:

Minimize paperwork and make processes more efficient. If teachers need to fill out something, make it digital and easy to complete. Before handing out another form, consider if it is truly necessary or if the information is already available elsewhere. Streamlining paperwork improves morale and reduces frustration.

7. The Shame Game

Publicly calling out teachers for low test scores, attendance issues, or other problems is a terrible practice. It embarrasses staff, damages morale, and creates a culture of fear rather than improvement.

Solution:

Address concerns privately. Instead of shaming teachers, provide support, resources, and guidance. Recognize strengths and progress rather than just focusing on weaknesses. A supportive environment leads to better outcomes for both teachers and students.

8. Meetings at the Worst Possible Time

Holding meetings on Friday afternoons when teachers are exhausted, Monday mornings before they have had coffee, or right after school when their energy is gone leads to disengagement.

Solution:

Be mindful of timing. Consider teacher input when scheduling meetings. Rotate meeting times if necessary to accommodate different schedules. If meetings must be after school, keep them short and to the point.

Bonus Tip: The Importance of an Agenda

A meeting without an agenda is like a road trip with no map. It leads to confusion, wasted time, and off-topic discussions.

Always send an agenda in advance. Keep it clear and focused. List the main topics, set time limits for each section, and stick to it. A well-structured agenda keeps meetings efficient and prevents unnecessary detours.

Making Staff Meetings Work

Staff meetings should serve a purpose. They should provide value, encourage collaboration, and respect teachers’ time. By eliminating unnecessary meetings, keeping discussions focused, and involving staff in meaningful ways, school leaders can transform meetings from dreaded obligations into valuable experiences.

Remember gang, respect time, engage staff, and communicate effectively. That is the key to better meetings and a stronger school culture.

Stand Tall Staff Meetings: Elevate Your Team’s Energy and Focus

Staff meetings should inspire, motivate, and engage educators—not drain their energy. That is why I am introducing Stand Tall Staff Meetings, a fresh way to bring excitement, purpose, and practical strategies into your meetings—without adding another burden to your schedule.

What is a Stand Tall Staff Meeting?

A Stand Tall Staff Meeting brings me, Stand Tall Steve, directly into your staff meeting—virtually! Whether you need 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or a full hour, I will deliver high-energy inspiration, motivation, and practical guidance. Instead of the usual information dump, your staff will feel recharged, connected, and ready to take on their challenges with renewed focus.

When Should You Host a Stand Tall Staff Meeting?

• Before Spring Break – When staff feel exhausted and need an energy boost.
• Before or After State Testing – To provide focus, motivation, and encouragement.
• End of the School Year – To reflect, recharge, and prepare for a strong start next year.
• Anytime Morale Feels Low – A Stand Tall Staff Meeting reignites purpose and passion in educators.

It is simple—just visit StandTallSteve.com or email me directly at [email protected] to set up your session. Let’s make staff meetings something your team looks forward to!

Big Changes Coming to Education and Within Our Ranks

Education is shifting, and professional development is evolving. As schools face new challenges, there is a growing demand for expert educators to step into the roles of speakers, trainers, and consultants. Within Our Ranks is at the forefront of this movement, creating opportunities for educators to develop their voice, refine their skills, and expand their impact beyond the classroom. Here’s what’s coming up!

Within Our Ranks Mile High Pop-Up Event

June 10-12, 2025

Denver, Colorado

The Mile High Pop-Up is a must-attend event for those ready to take the leap into professional speaking, training, or consulting. Taking place in Denver, Colorado, from June 10-12, this exclusive gathering will bring together a dedicated team of educators looking to elevate their expertise. Participants will receive hands-on coaching, actionable strategies, and real-world insights to help them launch or expand their professional speaking careers. If you are in the area and ready to grow, this event is for you!

Book a discovery call for more information!

Within Our Ranks Three-Day Retreat

June 26-28, 2025

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Later in June, the Within Our Ranks Retreat in Philadelphia will provide a comprehensive deep dive into the business of educational speaking. Held over three days, this retreat will cover branding, marketing, content creation, and securing paid speaking engagements. This is the perfect space for educators who want to transform their knowledge and experience into a powerful message that resonates with audiences.
https://www.withinourranks.com/

Within Our Ranks Community Zoom Monthly Events

Every last Thursday of the month, educators from across the country join the Within Our Ranks Community Zoom Event to connect, share, and discuss all things speaking, training, and consulting. It is a space for real conversations about what professional development and speaking look like in the evolving world of K-12 education. These conversations are powerful, insightful, and engaging, whether you are just starting or already in the field.

Join us in shaping the future of educational speaking!
When: March 27th, 2025  7 PM EST
Where: Zoom Register here!

As a professional speaker, I travel worldwide speaking at schools and organizations.  Jet lag is a thing of the past for me, thanks to FlyKitt. You have to check them out! Visit FlyKitt, use the coupon code STANDTALL for 10% off, and tell them Stand Tall Steve sent you!