In independent schools, we talk about recruitment and retention almost every day. But as the leaves turn and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, let's look at the absolute lowest-cost, highest-impact retention strategy we have: Gratitude.
The warmth of your school community is arguably a major reason that families feel that special sense of belonging. And that warmth starts with every adult on campus, from the teacher in the classroom to the quiet heroes in facilities and the front office.
During this season of giving thanks, let’s extend genuine gratitude to every corner of your community. Acknowledging great work is a foundational act of great leadership, as well as being seasonally fun!
Reaching Every Corner of Campus
When we plan appreciation events, the faculty lounge usually gets the full attention. But a strategic gratitude plan ensures no team feels overlooked. The experience for a prospective family on a snowy day is directly impacted by the efficiency of the grounds crew, and the safety of every child relies on the maintenance team.
Here are three low-cost, high-impact ideas to make sure everyone on campus feels appreciated:
The Pop-Up "Warmth Bar"
Target: All Faculty and Staff
The Idea: On a chilly afternoon, set up a simple Hot Cocoa/Coffee Bar in a staff lounge or other central gathering place.
Inexpensive Items: Decaf and regular coffee, hot chocolate packets, pre-made whipped cream, a jar of mini marshmallows, and maybe a local (non-alcoholic) cider option.
The Message: Put up a sign that says something like: “Fueling the Heart of Our School: Thank you for bringing the warmth every day.” Staff can grab their cup and take five minutes to chat before heading off to the next thing.
The "Why We'd Be a Mess Without You" Goodie Bag
Target: Maintenance, Facilities, and Custodial Staff
The Idea: Put together small, customized goodie bags with theme that is practical and also plays with the pun! Focus on items they can actually use during their workday.
Inexpensive Items: Heavy-duty hand cream, high-quality lip balm, electrolyte powder packets, a nice carabiner clip, and a personalized, handwritten note.
The Message: Attach a tag that says something like: “We’d be a mess without you! Thank you for keeping our foundation strong.” Deliver these personally to them, don't make them come to the office to gather the goodies.
The Whole-School "Gratitude Cascade"
Target: Peer-to-Peer Appreciation
The Idea: Place large, fall-themed index cards (or turkey feathers!) in every office and in every mailbox. Encourage adults to write a specific, personalized thank you to a colleague in another department and drop it into a central, labeled box.
The Delivery: The Head of School or other leader can read a few of these anonymous "shout-outs" in an all-school meeting or assembly, and then deliver the collected cards to the recipients.
The Message: This demonstrates that gratitude is a shared community value, not just a top-down mandate. Who doesn’t love a personalized note?!
The truth is, we often spend vast resources analyzing why families or students leave, but the conversation about employee retention and satisfaction is equally important. We should invest just as much intentional energy in ensuring every adult on campus feels seen, valued, and essential. A thoughtful “thank you” is simple, but it’s the relational currency that fuels belonging and commitment. When staff feel genuinely appreciated, they elevate the experience for every student and family. Plus, we all deserve to know how much we impact others and how much our presence matters.
