4 Questions That Change Next Year

By the time May hits, most school leaders are running on empty.

Testing is wrapping up. Staffing decisions are in motion. Events are filling every open space on the calendar.

And the goal becomes simple:

Just get to the finish line.

But here’s the challenge:

When schools shift into survival mode, they often miss one of the most valuable opportunities of the entire year — the chance to reflect, reset, and prepare strategically for what’s next.

4 Questions That Can Change Next Year

If you only do one thing before the school year ends, make it this:

1. Where did we feel the most strain?

The areas with the most pressure usually point directly to structural gaps or ownership issues.

2. What responsibilities were unclear?

Confusion around “who owns what” is one of the biggest drivers of inefficiency and frustration.

3. What worked better than expected?

These are the systems, practices, and rhythms worth protecting and building on.

4. What do we not want to repeat next year?

This question often surfaces the most honest — and most valuable — insights.

Don’t Skip the Reset

Summer is often viewed as the time to fix things.

But the truth is: you can’t fix what you haven’t clearly identified.

Without intentional reflection, summer turns into a list of random projects instead of a strategic reset.

The end of the school year isn’t just about finishing strong.

It’s one of your best opportunities to make next year easier, clearer, and more effective.

Don’t miss it.

If you want support facilitating these conversations or turning insights into a clear plan for next year, TES is here to help.

Ask us about our WOW (Who Owns What) Workshop — designed to help schools create clarity, improve ownership, and build stronger systems for the year ahead.

— Tatonka Education Services