It’s always a great day when there’s breakfast in the teachers' lounge. Pencils or candy left in mailboxes are fun surprises. Coupons for Jeans Days are nice, too. But there’s more to supporting teachers than passing out t-shirts with the school mascot at the beginning of the year. Teachers want to feel appreciated and respected. Principals can create a school culture that gives teachers the time and space to be their best for their students all year long.
Role of Principals in Providing Support and Guidance
School climate is everything! Principals set the tone for a positive and collaborative environment. There’s a fine line, though. Teachers need a positive atmosphere, but it can’t be full of toxic positivity. It’s important to recognize that there are some difficult aspects of being a teacher that a Jeans Day can’t fix.
What can principals do to create conditions that feel inspiring and authentic? Start with discussions and feedback. Teachers are professionals, so there’s no need to micromanage or ask them to do unnecessary tasks. Trust your teachers to do what’s best for their students. Offer suggestions and ideas, but empower teachers to be the experts in their classrooms.
Ways Administrators Can Nurture and Strengthen Teachers' Success
All teachers are different, which is ideal because every student needs to make connections with someone at school. The most important part of leadership is to know your staff and personalize your relationships with them as appropriate. Chat with them about work and tap into their interests, such as family, favorite football teams, or the series they’re binge-watching. Remember that teachers don’t want to work FOR a principal. They want to work together WITH the principal.
Here are some questions to ask as you move through the school days:
- Did I say thank you for big and small things?
- How many classroom visits did I make today?
- Did I listen and consider all questions and concerns?
- What connections did I make with students?
- Was there anything I did to improve at least one teacher’s day?
- Did I respect the work-life boundaries of my staff?
- How did I empower my students to take ownership of their learning?
- How did I empower my team to teach their classes?
- Was I fair and consistent with students and teachers?
- Did I assume the best instead of jumping to conclusions?
- Did I protect the plan periods of my teachers?
- How did I connect with families?
- Did I pay attention to teachers who may be struggling with stress and burnout?
- How did I involve teachers in the decision-making process?
- Did I encourage my teachers to remember self-care?
- Did I check in with new staff members to see how they’re adjusting?
Final Thoughts on How Principals Can Support Teachers
Communication is the key. Talk with teachers about their lessons. Ask questions and listen to the answers. Drop in classrooms and engage with the teachers and activities. Make sure that your staff knows you are a safe place to bring any ideas and concerns. There is no substitute for work relationships where people feel seen, valued, and supported.
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