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The Sticky-Note Staff Map
Build a visual map of who knows what, who can help, and what everyone wants to learn.
Time15–25 minutes
Group size8+ people
FormatIndividual, Gallery walk
MaterialsThree colors of sticky notes, Chart paper or wall space, Markers
What this accomplishes
Educators add color-coded sticky notes to a wall map showing strengths they can share, questions they are exploring, and areas where they would welcome a collaborator. The finished map becomes a practical directory for the year.
- Make staff knowledge and interests visible
- Create natural reasons for future connection
Before you begin
Materials
- Three colors of sticky notes
- Chart paper or wall space
- Markers
Preparation
- Label three areas: I can share, I am exploring, and I would love a collaborator
- Choose a color for each category
What to say
“This is a map of useful humans, not a résumé wall. Add what you could share, what you are curious about, and where a collaborator would make the year easier.”
How to run it
- 1
Give each person at least one sticky note in each category color.
- 2
Ask participants to write one idea per note and add their name if they are comfortable being contacted.
- 3
Post the notes silently in the three labeled areas.
- 4
Give everyone five minutes to browse and mark two people or topics they may want to revisit.
- 5
Invite participants to photograph the map or transfer useful connections into a shared staff resource.
Prompts to use
What routine, tool, or topic could you help someone think through?
What are you hoping to learn or try this year?
Where would a thought partner or collaborator help?
What school process do you know unusually well?
Adapt it to the room
Small group
Use one sheet per person and let colleagues add connection suggestions around the edges.
Large group
Create duplicate stations by topic or grade band to prevent crowding.
Virtual
Use a shared board with three columns and one digital note per response.
Accessibility & inclusion
- Provide a seated writing station and let a facilitator post notes for participants.
- Offer digital submission through a short form.
- Names are optional; people may contribute a general resource without volunteering as the expert.
Debrief, if useful
What expertise in the room surprised you?
What is one connection worth making before the week ends?
Why it works—and what can go wrong
Why it works
Asynchronous contribution gives everyone time to think, and the artifact turns introductions into a searchable network instead of a one-time conversation.
Watch out for
- Avoid implying that named staff must provide unpaid coaching on demand.
- Do not let credentials become the only kind of expertise recognized.