MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dr. Melissa Bufkin
Overcoming the Winter Blues in Education The weeks before and after the holidays can feel like an eternity for teachers and administrators. After starting the academic year with fresh ideas and a new mindset, many educators slowly find themselves in a slump as the first semester ends and the next one begins. These “Winter Blues” can be turned around to combat this feeling, and the passion for teaching can be reignited with some strategic advice. In her article for Education Week, Madeline Will (2022) highlights insights from Ellen Moir, a veteran educator and founder of the New Teacher Center. Moir offers three key strategies to help teachers and administrators regain their motivation and joy in the classrooms and in schools. 1. Keep Perspective and Recognize You’re Not Alone One of the first steps in combating the winter slump is to maintain perspective. It’s important to remind yourself that feelings of fatigue and frustration are common among educators, especially during this time of year. You are not alone. Teaching is hard! However, building a support network with colleagues can be immensely beneficial. Sharing experiences and discussing challenges can create a sense of camaraderie and helps us to remind one an - other that we are all part of a larger community committed to student success. 2. Strategically Reflect on One Improvement Each Weekend Taking some time during the weekends to reflect upon the prior week can make a significant difference. Moir sug - gests dedicating a portion of your weekend time to think about one specific change/idea you can implement in the following week. This could be a new teaching method, a classroom management strategy, or a way to engage students more effectively. By focusing on one actionable step or strategy, educators can feel a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. This will help to alleviate feelings of being overwhelmed and will encourage professional growth and development. 3. Prioritize Sleep for Better Well-being Lastly, Moir emphasizes the importance of sleep. Adequate rest is crucial for maintaining both physical and men - tal health. Sleep deprivation can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and a lack of enthusiasm for teaching. Educators should prioritize their sleep by establishing healthy bedtime routines and making sleep a non-negotiable part of their lives. When teachers and administrators are well-rested, they are better equipped to handle the de - mands of their job. In conclusion, while the “Winter Blues” are upon us, it doesn’t have to be a time of decline. By keeping perspec - tive, strategically planning for the week ahead, and prioritizing sleep, teachers and administrators can shake off the blues and rediscover their passion for education. Remember, taking small steps can lead to significant improve - ments in overall well-being and job satisfaction.
PAGE 4 MPE Journal - Winter 2024
Made with FlippingBook Digital Proposal Creator