Let me just say it: We are missing something important in math instruction, and it is showing up across our math classrooms in the State of Texas when we study our standards, Texas Essentials of Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

The first month of school sets the tone for everything that follows, and for leaders, those early classroom observations are more than quick walk-throughs. They’re opportunities to shape culture, strengthen routines, and give feedback that truly sticks. In this piece, we share practical, trust-building strategies for keeping your feedback aligned, intentional, and impactful. We also have real examples of praise, wonderings, and polish that can transform classroom routines.