Whether personal or professional, a quick talk from the principal can help struggling teachers.
You’re better at your job if you’re happy. A school principal should create an environment conducive to teachers’ happiness. It’s also about making them feel valued and fulfilled.
One way to show support is to pick a few teachers each night, send them a text, and praise them for something they did that day. They will feel inspired to do even better. Tell them you were proud of you of the way they handled a meeting, for example. You might tell them you were impressed by how they worked with a child.
Connect and Support
One of the first steps a school principal must take is to know the people in their building. Encourage them to share their issues, and I’ll try to help them find a solution.
Open chat allows teachers to develop solutions they’re comfortable implementing. Bounce ideas off each other until they feel they have a plan. Since only some people are comfortable approaching the principal, try reaching out to struggling teachers. You might even ask them if they need a break.
Trusted administrators and teachers can also reach out to the principal whenever they see someone struggling. Remember that teachers have lives outside the school. A sick family member might be very stressful and affect daily performance. An observant and caring principal can connect with and give guidance. Sometimes knowing someone cares is enough to bolster a dedicated teacher through hard times.
Make sure your teachers know you’re proud of them and that they have your full support.
Self-care is one of the most critical factors a school principal should consider when supporting teachers. During the last month of the school year, teachers need to take care of themselves. One of the most effective ways to implement this mindset is by telling teachers when it’s time to go home. You may suggest they take a walk, go for a jog, or take a nap.
As a school principal, it’s your job to ensure that your teachers are doing their best and remind them that it’s sometimes OK for them to take a break from their work and go home. Identify the signs of struggling teachers, and remind them to take care of themselves and their families.