Welcome to Teach-Lead-Innovate! On this week’s Walk-the-Talk Wednesday, we’re exploring active listening—a skill that builds trust, strengthens relationships, and fosters collaboration in schools.

• Why Active Listening Matters: Learn how listening improves communication and builds trust in classrooms and leadership.
• Leadership Behavior: Discover how listening empowers staff and fosters relational trust.
• Teaching Practice: Explore how active listening transforms teacher-student relationships and engagement.
• Actionable Tips: Get practical strategies to strengthen your listening skills and create a supportive school culture.

1. Bryk, A. S., & Schneider, B. (2002). Trust in schools: A core resource for improvement. Russell Sage Foundation.
2. Covey, S. R. (2013). The 7 habits of highly effective people: Powerful lessons in personal change. Simon and Schuster.
3. Pianta, R. C., Hamre, B. K., & Allen, J. P. (2012). Teacher-student relationships and engagement: Conceptualizing, measuring, and improving the capacity of classroom interactions. Handbook of Research on Student Engagement, 365–386.
4. Weger, H., Castle, G. R., & Emmett, M. C. (2014). Active listening in peer interviews: The influence of message paraphrasing on perceptions of listening skill. International Journal of Listening, 28(1), 13-31.

How do you use active listening in your school or classroom? Share your strategies and success stories with us on social media or via email at [email protected].

Thank you for tuning in to Walk-the-Talk Wednesday! Let’s keep building trust and collaboration through listening.