Teacher Observations That Build, Not Break, Trust

In many schools, classroom observations are a source of anxiety.

They’re seen as judgmental, opaque, and transactional — a checklist to complete rather than a conversation to have. But if we want teachers to grow, and if we want leaders to lead with purpose, we have to reframe what observation really is.

Observation isn’t surveillance. It’s support — if you do it right.

“When trust exists, observations become welcomed moments of shared insight — not fearful evaluations.”

— TIE Online, “What Are Trust-Based Observations?”

(Read article)

In our work with schools and education managers, we help reframe observation as a developmental tool — a way to build culture, not compliance. And that starts by shifting mindset and methods.

What does that look like in practice?

• Build trust first

  If a teacher doesn’t believe you’re in their corner, no feedback will land. Show up before you evaluate. Support before you judge.

  
  

• Be specific and kind

  Vague praise (“great energy!”) or overly critical nitpicking erodes trust. Be precise. Be actionable. Be human.

  
  

• Use observations as coaching

  Move from “gotcha” to growth. Use questions, not just ratings. Make it a dialogue, not a download.

  
  

• Adopt a model that works

  One example is Craig Randall’s Trust-Based Observations model — a framework that emphasizes frequent, formative check-ins rather than high-stakes, high-stress assessments.

“Frequent, low-stakes conversations — built on a foundation of trust — are far more effective at improving practice than a single high-stakes review.”

— Better Leaders Better Schools, Ep. 42: Craig Randall

(Listen here)

The most effective school leaders don’t just evaluate teachers — they develop them. And the most effective teams build cultures where observation is part of the rhythm of growth, not an annual performance hurdle.

“Teacher evaluation should be about professional learning, not inspection.”

— EdWeek Opinion, “Evaluation Based on Trust and Growth”

(Full article)

That’s where we come in. Our leadership training and coaching frameworks help school leaders transform their observation practices — so they can turn feedback into fuel for growth.

If your school’s observation system feels like a formality — let’s talk about how it could become a leadership tool instead.

Message us to learn more.

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