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Free Classroom Walkthrough Templates for Principals

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We've compiled the most effective classroom walkthrough templates used by successful principals across the country. Each template is designed to work on mobile devices, can be customized to your needs, and helps you complete observations in 5-15 minutes.

Why Use Structured Walkthrough Templates?

Consistency

Ensure fair, equitable observations across all teachers

Efficiency

Complete observations 3x faster with structured forms

Data Quality

Collect actionable data that drives improvement

1. Danielson Framework Template

Based on Charlotte Danielson's Framework for Teaching

Most Popular

What's Included:

  • Planning and Preparation indicators
  • Classroom Environment checklist
  • Instruction delivery rubric
  • Professional Responsibilities section
  • Evidence collection fields
  • 4-point rating scale

Best For: Formal observations, comprehensive evaluations, districts using Danielson framework

Time Required: 15-20 minutes for full observation

2. Marzano Focused Teacher Evaluation

Streamlined version of the Marzano evaluation model

What's Included:

  • Standards-based planning section
  • Learning environment indicators
  • Effective instruction checklist
  • Student engagement metrics
  • Professional behavior notes
  • Growth tracking fields

Best For: Standards-aligned observations, data-driven schools, growth-focused evaluations

Time Required: 10-15 minutes per observation

3. 5-Minute Quick Walkthrough Form

Designed for frequent, informal observations

Fastest

What's Included:

  • Student engagement quick check
  • Instructional strategy identifier
  • Learning objective clarity
  • Classroom environment scan
  • "Glow and Grow" feedback section
  • Follow-up action field

Best For: Daily walkthroughs, new teacher support, building-wide snapshots

Time Required: 5 minutes or less

4. PBIS Classroom Observation Checklist

Focus on positive behavior interventions and classroom management

What's Included:

  • Classroom expectations posted
  • Positive reinforcement tracking
  • Behavior correction strategies
  • Student engagement levels
  • Classroom routines assessment
  • SEL integration notes

Best For: PBIS schools, behavior-focused observations, classroom management coaching

Time Required: 10 minutes per observation

How to Use These Templates Effectively

1

Choose Your Primary Template

Select one template as your standard to ensure consistency across observations. You can use others for specific purposes.

2

Customize to Your District

Add your district's specific indicators, remove sections you don't need, and align with your evaluation framework.

3

Train Your Team

Share templates with assistant principals and instructional coaches. Ensure everyone uses the same criteria for fairness.

4

Go Digital

Convert these templates to digital forms on your tablet or phone for easier data collection and instant sharing.

Template Comparison Guide

Template Best For Time Focus Areas
Danielson Formal evaluations 15-20 min Comprehensive teaching practice
Marzano Growth tracking 10-15 min Standards & student progress
Quick Walk Daily rounds 5 min Engagement & instruction
PBIS Behavior support 10 min Classroom management

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these templates really free?

Yes! All 4 templates are included free when you sign up for a Classroom Walkthroughs account. Your free account includes 10 observations to try the system.

Can I modify these templates?

Absolutely. These templates are fully customizable. Add your district's specific criteria, remove sections you don't need, or create entirely new forms based on these foundations.

Do these work on mobile devices?

Yes. All templates are optimized for tablets and smartphones. You can complete observations on any device and sync data automatically.

How do I share these with my team?

Once you create your account, you can invite assistant principals and instructional coaches to use the same templates. Everyone's observations sync to a central dashboard.

Can I use these for state compliance?

These templates align with major evaluation frameworks used nationwide. However, check with your state's specific requirements and customize accordingly.

Get All 4 Templates Plus Digital Tools

Sign up for free and get instant access to all templates, plus mobile-friendly platform, analytics, and expert feedback suggestions.

Free account includes 10 observations • No credit card required

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