Teachers are some of the most giving people in society, putting their own personal time, energy and resources into helping others grow. Unfortunately, all this generosity often comes with a cost, as many teachers often feel unappreciated and undervalued in their roles. A study from the University of Buffalo found that 80% of teachers in America report feeling burned out, which is a result of an imbalance between personal fulfillment and professional obligations. This means that while teachers enjoy what they do, it often comes at the expense of things like relationships with family or friends. Even worse, many teachers feel like no one values them because they’re not being paid enough to afford housing or because test scores aren’t high enough. But even though these feelings may be valid, there are still ways you can help your favorite teacher feel appreciated again!
Remember Teachers Are Humans Too
Despite the fact that teaching is often seen as a sacred profession, it’s important to remember that teachers are still humans. This means that they have the same needs as everyone else, including the need to feel appreciated, valued and understood. While you may be thrilled to see your favorite teacher every day, they may be struggling just as much as they are helping you learn! So, when you see your teacher outside of the classroom, you should remember that they’re people too. This means that you should treat them like you would any other friend or family member. Ask them about their lives outside of the classroom, and give them the same respect and care that you’d give to anyone else.
A Little Goes a Long Way
A lot of teachers may feel unappreciated, but that’s not because they’re being greedy or because they want more than what they have. It’s because they often feel like there’s an endless list of things they need, but no one is there to help. This could be anything from school supplies to validation that they’re doing a good job. And unfortunately, a lot of people forget to acknowledge the teachers in their lives, which can make matters worse. But the good news is that a little bit of gratitude goes a long way. This can be as simple as sending your teacher a quick thank you note, or sending them a gift card to their favorite store. There are many ways to show gratitude, so it’s important to do what you can while also remembering that less is more.
Help Them Feel Valued in Other Ways
Teachers often feel unappreciated because they aren’t being compensated fairly for the work that they do. This means that many teachers either have to take out loans to get certified or quit their jobs to find other sources of income. And unfortunately, one of the main reasons why teachers leave the profession is because they can’t afford to stay. But you can help your favorite teacher stay in the profession by showing them that you value their work. For example, you can become a tutor or mentor in your community to help others. Or, you can help your community by becoming an active member of your school’s PTA.
Help Them Find Meaning Outside of Teaching
Teachers often thrive off of their relationships with students, and they often find meaning in helping others learn and find their passions. But the problem is that this can often become their primary source of fulfillment, which can lead to burnout. This is why you should help your favorite teacher find meaning outside of the classroom. This can be as simple as collaborating on a project together, or inviting them to join your book club or neighborhood sports team. Or, you can help your community by becoming an active member of your school’s PTA.
Help By Celebrating Their Contributions
A lot of teachers are introverts and don’t like to draw attention to themselves. But the good news is that you can help your favorite teacher feel appreciated by celebrating their contributions. This could be as simple as throwing a bake sale to raise funds for their club, or throwing a book club party where you discuss one of your favorite teacher’s books. You can also create a hashtag like #teacherappreciationmonth to celebrate your favorite teacher, and show others how much they mean to you.
Summary Teachers are some of the most giving people in society, putting their own personal time, energy and resources into helping others grow. Unfortunately, all this generosity often comes with a cost, as many teachers often feel unappreciated and undervalued in their roles.This means that while teachers enjoy what they do, it often comes at the expense of things like relationships with family or friends. Even worse, many teachers feel like no one values them because they’re not being paid enough to afford housing or because test scores aren’t high enough. But even though these feelings may be valid, there are still ways you can help your favorite teacher feel appreciated again!
