Be real! Teaching is as tough as nails! Aside from being on your feet all day juggling the social, emotional, and academic needs of 20 or more students, you are also dealing with endless stacks of paperwork (that often come home with you), a new curriculum, after-school activities, professional development courses, observations/evaluations, and parent-teacher communications, all while earning a less than stellar salary that a good portion of the public believes is fair.
The hardiswhat makes this profession great. You see, all of the difficult work you do on a regular basis leads to a bigger, better, and brighter future for the children lucky enough to step foot into your room on the first day of school. While you may feel unappreciated at times, true worth and happiness comes from within and having a good outlook means everything in the world of education. Every once in a while there is a moment in class that makes you laugh hysterically, cry (the good kind), or feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for your job. Savor it! Share this moment with your colleagues, friends, family members, etc. You deserve it and people usually enjoy hearing a good teacher tale or two.
As well-deserved as holiday breaks are, try to avoid the countdowns (especially in front of the students). It inadvertently sends a negative message to your brain, and behavior issues often ensue when students can sense that their teacher is ready to ‘clock out’. Rather than doing countdowns, try doing count-ups to special events that celebrate learning (examples: plays/performances, spirit days, field trips, etc.)
It’s easy to fall into the trap of wanting to correct every negative behavior you see. But remember, take a deep breath and choose your battles wisely! Too much attention to negative behaviors can be counterproductive. Rather, focus on positive, specific feedback. Save the special letters, pictures, and thoughtful keepsakes you get from your children. Read them on a difficult day as a reminder of how much you love your job.
It’snaturaland sometimes healthy to vent. However, choose a few select people that you trust when venting frustrations. Chatting with a teacher buddy who can relate from another school may be your best bet. It’s not good for you or the school climate. After venting, always ask yourself, “Is this something I can control?” If not, let it go and move on.
Be sure to make your room students-friendlyandteacher-friendly. Take some extra time at the beginning of the year to make it an organized, well-functioning, comfortable, and beautiful place to spend your countless hours. Bring in a soft-lit lamp from home to grade papers near as opposed to the harsh fluorescentlights. Be greeted by the smell of a scented air freshener each time you enter your room. These little touches can go a long way!
Students forget about their troubles in 2.5 seconds. We can learn a lot from them! Remember, tomorrow is always a new day. Teachers deserve do-overs!
Parents can be your biggest supporters or your toughest critics. Fostering good relationships with them can make all the difference in your happiness as well as the success of your students. Communicate often and approach issues in a sensitive manner. How would you want something communicated if it were your child?
Keep it fun, both in the classroom and with your colleagues. Sing. Dance. Let yourself laugh a little too long. Do the messy project. Never take yourself too seriously. That is the beauty of being a teacher and working with them all day. Embrace it!
Yes, there are many things that make teaching tough. There are also millions of things that make it a fun-filled, rewarding profession!
By: Maricar G. Juico
