Mindful Monday: Teachers Need Other Teachers

Have you watched any news lately? Seen any posts on social media? Heard any statements from politicians? Everyone seems to have an opinion on what teachers need. "New curriculum", "more training", "more frequent observations", so on, and so forth. Opinions from those who have never worked inside a school building are not lacking. However, the thing is, they are all missing the mark. They've never spent a day in our shoes, so how could they possibly know what we need?

17 years in this profession and one truth remains. Teachers need other teachers. 

Please don't misunderstand me. Our partners, our families, and our friends outside of teaching are all necessary. They are an essential part of our support system. However, it's only a fellow educator that will appreciate "teacher tired" at the end of the day. It's only a fellow educator that will understand the sentence, "Don't lick the student standing in front of you," as just another day at work. (Side note, I've actually said those exact words.) It's only a fellow teacher that will understand the power a new pack of stickers has. 

So as this year starts, make sure you have a "no matter what" teacher friend. A teacher friend that lets you raid their candy stash. A teacher friend that doesn't judge you when you share how awry your lesson went. And a teacher friend that reminds you just how amazing you really are. We all need someone there for us "no matter what."

I leave you with this last thought...

The first bell of the school year will be ringing before we know it.  When that bell rings, we will close our doors and in that moment, it becomes just us and our students. It's understandable to feel that all the pressure is on you. However, don't forget that you are not in this alone. No one expects you to do it by yourself. Teachers need other teachers. Lean on one another. Support each other. Find the little things to laugh at. And know that You've Got This!