Some small changes can be made from an administrator’s perspective and have an outsized impact when it comes to preventing teacher burnout. Here are 13 examples:
1. Saving Teacher’s Time
Providing shared resources and lesson plans or bringing in specialists (tech support, substitute teachers) to help with minor tasks saves teachers time and energy.
2. Providing Flexible Schedule
Occasional schedule flexibility demonstrates trust in teachers. In addition, giving teachers more autonomy over their schedules, like the ability to occasionally work from home, come in late, leave early, or adjust their hours, can allow them to better manage their work and personal lives.
3. Cutting Down on Redundant Paperwork
It can be done through digital forms, combining reports, or providing admin support. It can help free up time for teachers to focus on core instructional tasks.
4. Giving Structured Feedback
Having structured ways for teachers to give feedback (surveys, committees, etc.) shows their voice is valued and concerns will be addressed. Small changes based on feedback can improve morale.
5. Ensuring Teachers Have Enough Physical Space
Ensuring teachers have a lounge, adult bathrooms, secure storage space, and ergonomic furniture conveys respect and support.
6. Showing Empathy and Consideration for Teacher’s Workload
Here are some ways administrators and schools can demonstrate empathy and consideration for the reality of the teacher’s workload:
7. Listen without Judgment
Have open conversations with teachers to understand their challenges. Don’t dismiss their concerns or assume they need to “work harder.”
8. Conduct Anonymous Surveys
Ask teachers detailed questions about their daily schedules, duties, stresses, and workload. Look for patterns and insights.
9. Involve Teachers in Decision Making
Get teacher input when considering policy changes that affect workload like schedule, class size, duties, etc.
10. Respect Their Time
Don’t overload meeting agendas or encroach on prep periods. Start and end meetings promptly.
11. Recognize Extra Work
Acknowledge the unpaid overtime teachers put in grading, lesson planning, etc. Express appreciation.
12. Thank Them Often
Verbal gratitude, handwritten notes, and small gifts show your gratitude for teachers’ hard work and dedication.
13. Prioritize Their Mental Health
Proactively offer mental health support through counsellors, workshops, or wellness activities.
Takeaway
The key is making teachers feel genuinely valued, supported, and cared for. Small gestures to recognize their efforts can relieve the burden and boost morale.
Thank you for reading, and let’s fight burnout and help teachers thrive in the classroom together!
