Writing in Education Week, Justin Parmenter, a 7th grade English/language arts teacher at South Academy of International Languages in Charlotte, N.C., offers these 8 practices to benefit students (practices 1 to 4) and teachers (practices 5 to 8).
1) Foster relationships
Deep learning requires positive, genuine relationships. Creating them starts with knowing your students as individuals. Ask your students about their families and their interests outside of school (be real and talk about your own, too). The next week, ask follow-up questions that show you paid attention.
What about introverts who don’t like to talk? Use one-way or nonverbal communication. Sometimes it’s a good start to let students know you respect that they are shy.
2) Stress safety
Every teacher is responsible for ensuring the classroom is a welcoming place. Everyone is respected and valued. Be vigilant and hold students accountable for their interactions with each other. Be kind when there are problems and give students a fresh start the next day.
3) Explain the value and purpose of tasks
Students need to know there is value in the tasks you’re giving them. They often don’t get that from viewing an objective from state standards written on the board. In student-friendly terms communicate that what you’re teaching them will be helpful in the real world. Watch how it impacts motivation.
4) Include creativity
Whether it’s a story-writing warm-up or an option to define a word by means of a drawing, students need opportunities to create things that are just theirs.
5) Set boundaries
Saying “yes” to every ask and having your home become a school satellite office is the road to burnout. It can harm relationships with loved ones who rely on you to be more than your job. Set yourself free sometimes: “Sorry, I can’t take that on right now.” And clock out when the final bell rings.
6) Choose attitudes
Negativity is contagious and participating in conversations that amount to “I hate this place” or “These children are the worst” is your choice. Connect with educators who still love the job and the kids, despite the challenges. Stick with them. Their attitudes are contagious, too.
7) Unplug from school
It’s essential to unplug from work and do things that you love. Carve out time in your schedule for the non-school things that matter to you and stick to this commitment. Recharge your energy and return to the classroom bright and early the next morning ready to roll.
8) Celebrate your value
When it feels like you’re not making a difference, re-read those old thank-you notes from students, parents, and colleagues that you’ve held onto. Remember your myriad successes.
Education Week
