As a New School Year Begins, Keep the Students in Front of You

As the new school year starts, I think about the many roles I’ve been lucky to have in education: teacher, principal, coordinator, professional learning leader, and university instructor.

Each role came with its own responsibilities, but one purpose always stayed the same:

Keep the students in front of you.

Today, AI and technology continue to change how we teach and learn. Still, nothing can replace the person who notices when a child is quiet, senses when encouragement is needed, celebrates small successes, or simply says:

I see you. You matter here.

Teachers, you can’t be everything for every student.

Hopefully, many children who come into your classroom have already had great first teachers in their parents, guardians, grandparents, and other family members.

For those who haven’t, never underestimate what you can offer them in the year they spend with you.

You might be the one who helps a child see they are capable, interesting, lovable, and worthy of someone’s time and attention.

They may forget the assignment.

They may forget the lesson.

But they rarely forget how they felt in your classroom.

Teachers, there’s something else I’ve learned over the years that I hope you remember:

The most important person to be self-regulated in your classroom is you.

Students look to us for guidance. They pick up on our energy, frustration, patience, and calm.

So take care of yourself too.

I’ve always believed that self-care is the new health care.

Every day, do something for your body, mind, heart, and spirit. Move, breathe, go outside, laugh, eat well, rest, and spend time with people you love. Remember, you are more than your work.

You can’t keep giving if you’re running on empty and still expect to give your best to children.

And to those who serve and lead our schools, I offer this reminder.

Before asking teachers to try a new program, strategy, or initiative for students, show that same care to teachers.

If we want teachers to build relationships with students, we should build relationships with teachers too.

If we ask teachers to create safe and caring classrooms, we should also create safe and caring schools and regions.

And be present.

Emails, policies, documents, and virtual meetings are important, but being present in schools matters even more.

Walk the halls, visit classrooms, sit with staff, and listen.

Think of the educators in your area as your homeroom.

Ultimately, student success is our goal.

But after a lifetime in education, I believe this now more than ever:

Teacher success supports student success.

Supported teachers support students.

Regulated teachers help students regulate.

Teachers who feel valued are better able to help children feel valued.

As you start this new year, keep your focus on students, care for those who teach them, and never underestimate how much one caring person can change someone’s life.

So to you all, I wish you a wonderful year ahead.

As the year begins, maybe ask yourself:

How will you rise from here?