Taking Care of the Climate

horticulture.wisc.edu

Now that we have settled into the routines of the school year, it is too easy at times to forget about the little things in an educators life. The little things that we know, aren't so little. We don't do it intentionally. Of course not. The reality is that we get so focused on the next lesson, activity and task that we forget to catch our breaths. It is our nature to barrel down and forge ahead, and for that, it is not a fault just a reality.

With that in mind, and with the school year already a month in, here are some quick suggestions to keep that spirit up as we head into the shortened days of autumn knowing that winter is barreling down before we know it. Many of these you most likely already do day in and day out and for that, your teachers are fortunate. Therefore, just treat it as a gentle reminder, a nudge of sorts, to not forget the simple stuff in the days and weeks ahead.

Listen.

Offer to cover a class.

Share resources that you recently discovered.

Send an email after hearing about a lesson students enjoyed.

Leave a hand-written note of gratitude on the teachers desk.

Purchase a great read, work or pleasure, and drop it in their mailbox.

Foot the bill for something simple, out of the ordinary.

Buy a coffee, or a soda. A treat.

Give the gift of time.

Smile.

Make the most of September. There is only one of them this school year. Be ready for October and what you can do to support the work of your teachers. Remember, our teachers are amazing at what they do. Our task as instructional leaders is to continue to support them in their role as they impact the lives and the minds of children day in and day out. We are fortunate to be at their side.