SamTastic Weekly Tip: 6/22/26 - Pick Two

This week’s Tip: Pick Two

Happy Summer Equinox.  I bet you are enjoying the official start of summer.

Throughout the year, most SAM teams select two to six “focus staff members”, people they intend to spend more time with to improve practice.  Some SAM leaders keep the same focus staff for the school year.  Others change their focus staff every quarter.  Selecting Focus staff increases intentionality and gives quick access to data showing frequency of interaction.  It also creates an opportunity to consider next steps.

Students and most teachers are likely on summer vacation.  During your SAM Daily Meeting this week, try “Pick Two”.

Pick any two “Focus Staff Members” you identified during the school year just completed.  Then:

1. Print/review the graphs showing the time you spent and the frequency of interaction

2. Pull the evaluation document you completed

3. Review with your SAM team members

Then, discuss progress/next steps and consider scheduling a time to meet individually with each focus staff member this month, or when they return for the new school year.  Show them their graphs and ask:

1. Does anything here surprise you?

2. What would you like me to do more of with you??  Less?

3. What gains did you see in your practice this year?

4. What are you looking forward to in the new school year?

These conversations can be helpful as you reflect on your work.  These conversations can strengthen relationships with teachers and demonstrate commitment, support and care.

Time Change Coach Dave Sechler shared a summer set-up guide he created for his SAM teams and thought you might like to take a look as you update your TimeTrack for the new school year. 

Use this link: https://bit.ly/4vjF4q8

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It is budget time in most schools and districts.  Be sure to include your SAM services for the 2026-27 school year.  You can request an early invoice now by using this link: https://bit.ly/40GtA33  

Consider budgeting for the 20^th Annual National SAM Conference, too.  The conference provides an opportunity to learn from SAM teams across the US and an amazing array of national and international speakers, authors and thought leaders in leadership, education, and psychology.

20^th Annual National SAM Conference announcement video: https://www.wevideo.com/view/4003300281 

What does a SAM conference look like?  https://bit.ly/4cxGEw7