Dear Teacher

Dear Teacher,

It is now March and we are making our way toward the homestretch.  As 3rd quarter is blowing past and Spring Break is approaching, remember, there is a ton of new learning that needs to happen.  The only way that this is possible is if you take care of yourself first.  We are all tired and some days it seems as if there is not light at the end of the tunnel.  In the busyness of it all, take time to do something you enjoy.

Now, for those of you that are feeling overwhelmed, there is hope.  I want you to remember why you decided to get into the world of education.  Chances are that it was to make a difference in the lives of students, and you are!  Remember that day in and day out.  YOU ARE!  If your classroom is in need of a makeover Spring is the time to do it.  It is funny how those of us in education look at the Spring as the start of an end rather than seeing it for the new life that it is and can be. Take time to re-institute expectations and learning for all.  Your students are counting on you and they need to know that however tired and worn out you are, you still care.

I challenge you to take 5 minutes today and each day to reflect on the progress you have seen this year.  It is alright to start with the first student that comes to mind, but I challenge you to think of students that do not require the most amounts of your individual time each day.  My hope is that you will be able to think of at least one way that you have impacted each and every student of yours this year.  If not, it is not too late.  Use the time remaining in the year to make sure all students know you care in a special way.

If you are having a hard time thinking back for each individual student, simply ask.  Have students write about how you or your classroom has impacted their lives this year.  Ask about the most important learning they have done, where they still want to go, how you can help them learn best, etc.  You got this!  Let's make it a great rest of the year and remember to have fun!