It may feel like everyone is saying that to you right now since it’s Teacher Appreciation season. It may also feel like no one is saying it- or that the folks who are saying it now don’t really mean it.
I get it- we can get whiplash from the swing between “teachers are heroes” to “teachers are the enemy,” especially these days- and the latter drains us a lot more than the former fills, partially because our brains tend to hold onto the negative as a general rule, partially because educators are working harder than ever before. Even if you know how to hack the negativity bias, it’s still a lot.
The good news is that we’re well into spring so summer isn’t too far off. The better news is that while it may feel like no one appreciates you, the data says otherwise:
75% of parents are satisfied with the quality of their child’s education and would rate the performance of their children’s teachers — as excellent or good. (Gallup)
More than 70 percent of voters (both parents and non-parents) have a favorable view of public school teachers—and their views are more positive this year than last. (NEA)
And the best news is that we know that a lot of folks think you’re absolutely wonderful (and we hope you count us among them!)
In our newsletter this month, I shared not only some links to teacher-appreciation freebies but also some ideas for when you’re feeling unappreciated (or underappreciated) and one of my favorite appreciation songs.
I hope you know that, no matter what, we appreciate your hard work on behalf of your students and their families. Your skills, knowledge, creativity, humor, and goodwill make all the difference and we see you working hard under incredibly challenging circumstances.
With gratitude-
