Growth checks, when conducted consistently, allow teams to assess progress, adjust course, and stay aligned with their long-term objectives. Here’s a closer look at how growth checks work and how they can help you measure progress more effectively.

1. What Are Growth Checks?

Growth checks are intentional, focused feedback designed to gauge and guide progress, empowering school leaders and coaches to support their teams throughout the journey, not just at the finish line. Unlike traditional end-of-year evaluations, growth checks provide ongoing, meaningful opportunities for feedback and reflection. By conducting growth checks, school administrators can celebrate successes, address challenges in real time, and make agile adjustments that inspire teachers and staff to excel. This approach fosters a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring each step forward is purposeful, collaborative, and impactful for the entire school community.

2. Use Growth Checks as Coaching Feedback Opportunities

To perform an effective growth check, begin by revisiting your key performance indicators (KPIs), success metrics with your team and individual goals. Think of these metrics as guiding stars that help everyone stay aligned and focused on shared goals. Engage with your staff to co-create simple yet meaningful feedback tools, such as short surveys, performance tasks, or group reflection sessions. These tools should be designed to quickly capture insights on what’s working and what areas need further support. By analyzing these insights together, you can provide immediate feedback, celebrate wins, and make necessary adjustments that help each team member grow and thrive. This collaborative, responsive approach fosters a supportive culture where coaching and growth go hand-in-hand.

3. Adapting Based on Feedback

The real power of growth checks lies in their ability to inform agile, responsive strategies. For example, if a growth check reveals a need for additional training, more resources, or a new approach, you can make these adjustments in real time—rather than waiting until it’s too late to have an impact. This flexibility allows you to optimize your strategy as you go, keeping your entire team aligned and empowered to meet or even exceed your goals.

Conclusion: Embrace Growth Checks for Consistent Progress

Regular growth checks provide valuable insights that allow for intentional, data-informed decision-making. By committing to these interim assessments, you keep your strategies aligned, identify growth opportunities early, and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement. When done well, growth checks aren’t just a way to measure success—they’re a catalyst for driving it.