Creating a Culture of Feedback at Edgren Middle High School

At Robert D. Edgren Middle High School, a commitment to excellence in education extends beyond curriculum and instruction; it permeates the fabric of how the school communicates, collaborates, and grows. One of the most transformative initiatives underway is the intentional cultivation of a culture of feedback. This dynamic approach to communication is reshaping relationships, enhancing morale, and fostering academic and professional growth throughout the entire school community.

Why Feedback Matters

Feedback is more than evaluation—it's a tool for growth, reflection, and connection. When embedded into a school's daily practices, feedback fosters trust, transparency, and continuous improvement. At Edgren, feedback is not reserved for formal observations or report cards; it is a living practice that flows in multiple directions:

• Administrator to Teacher: School leaders provide timely, constructive, and supportive feedback that empowers teachers to refine their craft. Walkthroughs, coaching conversations, and collaborative goal-setting have created a climate where teachers feel seen and valued.
• Teacher to Teacher: Peer feedback is encouraged through professional learning communities (PLCs), Focus Collaboration, and teacher-led instructional rounds. This collegial exchange promotes shared accountability and sparks innovation.
• Teacher to Student: Teachers at Edgren prioritize formative feedback that guides students toward mastery. Rubrics, conferencing, and digital tools enable personalized, actionable feedback that empowers students to take ownership of their learning.
• Student to Student: Through peer review, group projects, and student-led discourse, students learn to give and receive feedback respectfully and constructively. These skills are essential for academic success and social-emotional development.
• Teacher to Parents: Open lines of communication with families ensure that feedback moves beyond performance to partnership. Regular updates, parent-teacher conferences, and digital platforms help build trust and shared responsibility for student growth.

Impact on School Culture

The results of this feedback-centered approach are tangible. Faculty and staff report higher morale, increased collaboration, and a stronger sense of purpose. Students are more engaged and confident, knowing that their voices matter and their efforts are recognized. AVID, Career Practicum, and English Language Arts teacher, Dr. Leah Sledge, stated: “In a culture of feedback, every voice becomes a catalyst for college readiness—because reflection, revision, and resilience are habits of success.”  Mr. Terrance Cobb, Principal of Edgren Middle High School, added: “When feedback becomes part of our culture, it stops feeling like criticism and starts feeling like care. We’re building a community where everyone—students, teachers, and families—feels empowered to grow.”

Other improvements include:

• Enhanced instructional quality through reflective teaching practices.
• Greater student achievement due to targeted academic support.
• Stronger professional relationships, built on mutual respect and shared goals.
• Improved parent engagement through transparent and meaningful communication.

Looking Ahead

Edgren’s journey toward a culture of feedback is ongoing. The school continues to invest in professional development, digital tools, and structures that support open dialogue. As the community deepens its commitment to feedback, it sets a powerful example of what’s possible when communication is rooted in trust and growth.