As the school year comes to a close, teachers across the country can finally take a breath. As another year passes, many teachers look back on the triumphs and challenges of the past year. Reflective practice helps teachers discover valuable insights about what works and what doesn't, and gain self-awareness about their own beliefs and approaches.
As classrooms close for the school year, I was curious to hear the profound lessons teachers have reflected on from their experiences this year. We asked teachers on Facebook, “What is one thing you learned this year that will help you next school year?” From the responses, five key takeaways emerged that captured the spirit of the 2023-2024 school year.
1. Put myself first!
So, are we starting to learn to put ourselves first? You can't pour from an empty cup! Teachers reported recognizing the importance of prioritizing personal well-being over professional life.
“You can be easily replaced… My health and family come first!” —Nancy R.
“Have a sick and personal day! You need to focus on self-care and relaxation. We are not superhuman.” —Becky S.
“Working 80 hours a week is not good for me and my family. By year 16, there is no longer a ‘do it all’ attitude.” —Michelle M.
This new emphasis on self-prioritization is a powerful lesson that will undoubtedly shape teachers’ approaches in the coming school year.
2. Set boundaries
And along with prioritizing our well-being, setting healthy boundaries is of the utmost importance. Reading so many teachers sharing their lessons about setting boundaries in this post reminded me of how healthy work-related conversations between teachers can be.
If you're like me and boundaries are a new concept to you, check out what a therapist, this teacher, and a Facebook commenter had to say.
“Give 100% during class and leave it at that. “Family is important and they need and deserve you.” —Lisa J.
“If it’s not yes, say no.” —Tammy B.
“You can get work done without having to stay late or take work home regularly. “I (and my family) were the only ones who noticed the difference.” —Jenny P.
“I’m trying to stop taking my work home. I can try my best, but my parents may still misunderstand. Wait overnight to respond to angry messages and remain calm and firm.” —Alina G.
Each teacher's approach to setting boundaries is different. I set boundaries by never going to school after 4:30 PM under any circumstances, never opening school emails at home, and only engaging in extracurricular activities once. Everyone's boundaries will look different, so it's essential to find what works best for you. As you shift your boundaries into the next year, you will discover a newfound sense of empowerment. There is tremendous power in saying no. Remember “No!” It's a complete sentence!
3. Professional and personal growth
This year, teachers learned lessons about themselves both inside and outside the classroom. Some have learned to advocate for themselves more, not to gossip with other colleagues, not to trust administrators, and not to lower their standards for students when parents start to push back.
“Stand back and let others step up.” —Erin W.
“Don’t compromise your values!” —Brendan T.
“To gain respect from others, you must first respect yourself.” —Elsie F.
And Sandy A. shares one of my favorite personal growth lessons I've learned as a teacher. “Choose your fight!”
4. Advice from an experienced teacher
In addition to personal growth and reflection, teachers have collected valuable tips to make the curriculum more accessible and practical. These insights shared by experienced educators can inspire and provide guidance to fellow teachers.
“Take it one day at a time. “Make a plan for a week or a month, but don’t stick to a schedule.” —Jamie G.
“1. I can’t reach every student and I can’t take it personally if some students don’t like me. 2. The secret to gaining respect from students and parents is to be consistent.” — Eugenia L.
“Continue to document everything that is inappropriate and out of order. This applies to both colleagues and managers. Because they have to do both and protect themselves from a toxic work environment.” —Della N.
“Try adding humor. Laugh with your students.” —Anne R.
“Students will learn more from their teachers when they trust them.” —Amanda D.
These practical tips and lessons will help teachers start the next school year with renewed confidence. I think we could all learn to smile more!
5. It's a small thing!
Sometimes the smallest changes can have the biggest impact. Check out what these teachers have to say about the little things that make a big difference.
“I bought a small wooden tray and prepared some pretty charcuterie for lunch. I looked forward to it every day, and I swear the act of arranging the cheese, fruit and nuts was like a little Zen ritual.” —Sarah F.
“Filling my classroom with plants has brought me so much joy!! —DJ S.
“I've made a lot of effort to get outside more this school year. We incorporated more of our curriculum into outdoor learning, ate lunch outside when the weather was nice, and sneaked outside during recess. These small changes have definitely helped me feel less irritable at the end of the day!” —Nina C.
6. Retirement and new surroundings
Some teachers have learned this school year that forcing the wrong puzzle pieces together no longer works. Several teachers, like Wendy S., said they were looking forward to retirement. “Retirement is truly amazing!”
Jeff I. teases, “Being a retired teacher is the best type of teacher.”
Some people say it's a good idea to take a break from years of teaching. Other teachers, such as Teresa A., described learning as “knowing where enough is enough and when it is time to go.”
Teachers learned that there is power in new beginnings and new environments. Here are some thoughts on getting out of a toxic environment and moving toward fresher, more current opportunities. After spending a few years at the same position and school, it may be a good idea to take a step back and find a new school. Maybe there are perks waiting on the other side, like a promotion! With each transition, teachers are eager to embrace the unknown and discover the possibilities that come their way.
Teachers begin a well-deserved break in reflection as they conclude another school year full of triumphs and challenges. From prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries to fostering personal and professional growth, educators have discovered the power of embracing change and saying no. We eagerly look forward to next year as they share their practical tips and lessons learned.
Wait, did I really say that? Are we already talking about next year?