Reflective Supervision Year at a Glance

Support Meetings

Outline of Topics Covered 

The monthly meetings are an important foundation of our culture. The focus should always be on building a supportive relationship between a director and facilitators/team members. During these meetings, the director is focused on asking reflective questions and practicing active listening. These meetings will give you the data you need to provide the support that each team and individual team member needs to become stronger and more effective. 

Dedicate time for these meetings. For individual meetings with facilitators, it’s important for school directors to retain a “roving sub” to move from class to class. Team meetings can usually be scheduled during facilitator collaboration time.

Set up a relaxed, conversational environment. Comfortable chairs gathered together rather than a “director behind a desk/table” environment will set the tone of inclusiveness and break down the top-down stereotype that many have in traditional schools. You may want to take some notes so that you can remember what to look for and support in each classroom or team member’s role. Remember that a laptop can be perceived as another barrier to having authentic, caring conversations. 

Treats are a plus! Keep our healthy food policy in mind. A few chocolates are fine, but a healthy alternative is important, too. (We are the role models!) Water, tea, and coffee are a nice touch, too. 

Most importantly: Don’t forget this moment is for building relationships, and the best way to do this is through coaching. Remember to set aside emotions and really listen to what is being said. Ask questions to gain clarity, promote thoughtfulness, and support growth. When you are in coaching mode, it is not a time for telling. 

However, there are times when it is appropriate to offer suggestions. As Denise Trentham says, “If a person is drowning, we don’t focus on coaching them on swimming; we throw them a life preserver!”