Teaching is a work of heart. This profession may be the noblest of all, yet requires both physical, mental and emotional aspect of a teacher. Teaching and learning process will be effective when the teacher balances the things around him or even the things that weighs him down. That is why it is important to boosts the morality of each professional most especially the ones in education system so that we can be sure that they can deliver themselves in their best manner. It is a must to give everyone the compliments, feedback, or personalized recognition they deserve. But here’s a secret to effective management:  they aren’t looking for big sweeping gestures or constant praise. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that have the biggest effect on teacher morale.

All they want is quite simple—to feel respected. As a colleague, a school head, a teaching or non-teaching personnel, here are five tips for better teacher morale so that you can have a harmonious relationship that promotes conducive learning environment as well as healthy working environment.

1. Create a Home Away From Home

Make your school warm and inviting with little touches for a cozy and creative atmosphere. Adding plants or flowers around the front office or putting some magazines and healthy snacks in the teachers’ lounge can make a big difference in attitude. “Research has shown that the environment can be more important and more motivating than money,” “When your surroundings are inspiring, your brain is more likely to be inspiring too.”

2. Celebrate Successes

Feeling appreciated is a core emotional concern for all humans. It’s part of our make-up. A simple verbal thank you, a hand-written note, or a pat on the back can incentivize your team to work harder. “Celebrating small wins as a team enhances motivation,” “It helps teams maintain focus on what they’re working towards while giving everyone a chance to reflect on their successes.”

If you want to give a physical token of appreciation to a particular team member, make sure it’s unique and meaningful.

3. Let Your Team in on the Big Picture

Don’t assume everyone on the team understands and knows the goals and priorities that are top of your mind. Have regular meetings where you clearly spell them out to ensure everyone is on the same page. “When people on a team have a different understanding of the target, it can create frustration, chaos, and a decline in performance,” be sure to involve everyone in the bigger picture. A monthly or quarterly meeting specifically to provide updates on successes and challenges helps all team members feel like they are part of getting there.

4. Show Them They Have Your Trust

If one of your teachers wants to develop new curriculum or a counselor wants to start an after-school program, they’ll take much more pride in their work if you give them autonomy. You can provide a roadmap and offer yourself as a resource and sounding board. But be willing to let go and enable your team to take the wheel.

5. Treat Everyone as Individuals

Everyone who reports to you will have a unique set of personality traits. Some may thrive by working independently while others may need constant reassurance that they’re doing a good job. By remembering there’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to motivating and improving teacher morale, you can garner better results “When you impose your preferred work style on others, you risk upsetting people who have different strengths and need different levels of support from you.

We don’t want to be a burden to our workmates, as the saying’ don’t do to others what you don’t want them to do unto you’. Before we speak think twice. Building each other up cost nothing but healthy and joyful workplace!

By: Marvin S. Santiago|Teacher II |BNHS TLE Department|Balanga City, Bataan