5
WAYS TO HAVE A PERSONALLY &
PROFESSIONALLY REWARDING SCHOOL YEAR
As educators, we always seek ways to make school more engaging and exciting for
students — but what about ourselves? Stay motivated and inspired this semester by
following these 5 simple tips.
by Laura Blaich
A former AOPS teacher, today
Laura is a California-based Certified
Educational Therapist, National
Board-certified teacher, and learning
specialist serving students in grades 3
to 6. She taught at St. Margaret School
in Narberth from 2006 to 2010.
1: Partner with parents
Kick off the semester by sending parents a message introducing yourself,
expressing your excitement, and inviting them to reach out. This helps establish a
strong parent-teacher relationship — and makes it easier to connect if issues arise.
2: Point out the positives
Every week, send two parents an email describing something positive their
children accomplished, such as helping a classmate or participating in
class. Parents will be encouraged, and you’ll find it rewarding to notice and
highlight positive behavior.
3: Turn the tables
It’s all too easy to get stuck in your schedule and lesson plans. Enrich your
own soul by taking a professional development course or workshop, online
or in person. Check to see if your school can cover course costs with funds for
professional development.
4: Collaborate with colleagues
To ward off isolation, team up with other teachers who work in
complementary subject areas. Creating a collaborative project can enhance
your teaching with new ideas and perspectives — deepening students’
experiences in the process.
5: Bond over books
Participate in a book club for educators — or start your own! There are countless
resources exploring pedagogies, curricula, learning differences, and other
teaching topics. It’s a rewarding way to open yourself to new research, ideas,
and partnerships.
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