Shared last fall by instructional leader, Dr. Damia C. Thomas, this reflective testimonial captured something many educators and facilitators wrestle with every day: how to turn meetings into moments that actually move work forward. As we have launched our first, self-paced, virtual course, Better Meetings: Structure for Success, Dr. Thomas’s words are relevant and applicable. With the right structures in place, meetings can shift from draining obligations to purposeful, collaborative spaces where real progress happens! Let’s hear more from Dr. Thomas below.

“Have you ever walked out of a meeting wondering, ‘Did we actually get anything done?’

Early in my journey as a school leader, I found myself in that very situation more times than I’d like to admit. I was excited to make a difference, but without clear support or direction, my meetings lacked the focus and structure they desperately needed.

That’s when I discovered a hidden gem that transformed my approach: the National School Reform Faculty (NSRF) protocols.

The NSRF protocols became my secret weapon. They offered a range of structured, research-based strategies that helped me turn my meetings into purposeful, results-driven conversations.

These protocols were an absolute lifesaver for a new leader like me, who was trying to find my footing without any mentorship or guidance. They provided the roadmap I needed to navigate complex discussions, make sure all voices were heard, and keep everyone aligned on our goals.

Here’s how it worked: Instead of my meetings spiraling into endless debates or going off-topic, the protocols helped me create clear agendas, establish roles, and set norms that everyone understood and followed.

Whether we were analyzing student work, tackling tough challenges, or simply trying to move forward as a team, the NSRF protocols gave me the confidence and structure to lead effectively. I was no longer just holding meetings; I was facilitating meaningful dialogue that led to actionable outcomes!

Looking back, I can’t overstate how pivotal the NSRF protocols were in my growth as a leader.

If you’re a leader searching for a way to bring clarity and direction to your meetings, especially if you’re feeling unsupported or overwhelmed, I can’t recommend the NSRF protocols enough. They provided the structure I needed when I had none, and they just might do the same for you.

The right tools can make all the difference.

Keep leading with purpose, and watch how your team rises to meet the challenge.”

~ Damia C. Thomas, Ed. D.
Instructional Systems Architect | Designing School Systems That Hold Under Pressure

NSRF offers professional educators like you multiple options for growth and experience! Let us help your toolbox grow!

• Register for our new Better Meetings: Structure for Success virtual course today to gain tools and knowledge specific to running regular meetings effectively.

• Register to become a certified CFG Coach—a master of NSRF protocols, activities, and proven concepts—through our Open CFG Coaches’ Trainings. We offer both virtual and on-site training options. All are welcome, but seats are limited! Learn more here.

• Become a Member of the NSRF today for only $25/year to stay in loop of new events and shared articles and to gain access to our extensive Members’ Protocol Library, online and searchable and at your fingertips 24/7! (Already a trained/certified CFG Coach? Renew your highest level Coach Membership after logging in.)