Teachers in the United States yearn for a high level of respect from the public. However, do we afford it to each other? Unfortunately, I’ve heard countless demeaning comments from teachers and administrators about other educators. I’m embarrassed to say I participated in such conversations early in my career. Eventually, I realized how unhelpful these discussions were and how awful they made me feel. Worse yet, I imagined how awful the other teacher would feel if they overheard.
I sometimes think we’ve all forgotten we’re playing for the same team in the education world. It often feels like a competition where we pit teachers and schools against one another. Who will have the best scores? The most growth? The best-behaved class? We forget that we all have strengths and areas to grow in; no one is perfect. There’s something to say about educators believing all students can learn and be successful but not translating that belief to our colleagues.
By giving up on each other, we are effectively giving up on students. Particularly in the United States, when education seems frail and ready to implode, teachers need a network of support. Are teachers who come to work to wind up feeling disrespected, ignored, or unsupported able to be the best they can for their students?
As we head into another school year, I encourage you, whether you’re an administrator, teacher, instructional coach, counselor, or other support personnel, to reflect on the conversations you participate in (including online). Ask yourself: would you have this conversation in front of someone else? If not, why? How can you create a school culture where everyone feels valued, empowered, and supported?
What Might We Consider Eliminating?
- Negative conversations about teachers behind closed doors—is this gossiping?
- Ranking teachers—shouldn’t all teachers receive high levels of support?
- Power dynamics
What Might We Consider Adding More Of?
- Growth Mindset
- Relationship building
- Professional development for having productive, open, and honest conversations
