T.E.A.C.H.er Appreciation Month Part #5

 This month we've celebrated Teacher Appreciation Month by talking about Time, Effort, Actions, Compassion. There is no doubt that teachers encompass all of these traits. For our final week of celebrating together, we can end with H- Humble Humility.

I admit I had trouble distinguishing between the two words I wanted to use, and they are very similar. Since I love a good alliteration, I decided since there are no rules here, why not settle for both? This was also settled on the notion that I cannot stress enough how humble teachers are about their work. 

I've always been impressed by the humility of my colleagues and all the other educators I've met over the years. From clinical intern students to professors, elementary teachers to the State Teacher of the Year, I've witnessed a wealth of humility from a group of people who are most deserving of all the recognition. Educators are always hyper-focused on their daily work in the classroom along with other tasks they want (and more often than not, have) to complete. To be honest, getting recognized is not usually on a teacher's "to do list" or a goal. After my experience this year as Middlesex County Teacher of the Year in NJ, my eyes are wide open to the program (and others,) and how we simply do not recognize teachers enough. We need to change that landscape!

If you've ever listened to a conversation where a teacher receives an award, recognition, or even a simple "thank you and great job!" compliment, you know that they are always beyond humble, often disseminating the credit to others. They often respond with they aren't sure why they were selected for the recognition, or that others are deserving of the award too. What do I say? I say its time more educators get recognized for the amazing work they've done! It's time to celebrate each other teacher friends and let the world know of our great accomplishments. Educators make strides with their students everyday, and we have a front row seat to watch as they mature, learn, and grow. But we don't just sit and watch, we are active participants in their journey and influence them along the way (whether or not we realize that.) That in itself is "award worthy." It's time we allow ourselves to shine like the rockstars we are!

Humility is a great trait, but it's also healthy to hold your head up hight and smile when you receive that compliment, watch your students make progress, reach for that certificate or hang up the plaque on your wall. You've earned it! Want to continue the modesty and be humble? Think of ways you can highlight another educator's work. Perhaps a shout out on social media when you see his or her latest project. Take a moment to stop by and compliment some new student work in the hallway- emphasize the creativity of the project he or she put into it. Thank your team members for great curriculum ideas. Dreaming big still? Why not create a "teacher awards" ceremony at your school honoring others for their dedication and achieving their goals? There are no limits to sharing your appreciation for others, which will ensure you show your humility while still shining the light on all the great work teachers do!

As we close out our Teacher Appreciation Month, lets honor and respect how educators are so humble about the positive impact they made on the world through shaping the future. Let's also consider ways we can continue to recognize them for their work if you are not an educator, and how we can support one another for those in the field. 

Final Thoughts: Keep being humble- it keeps your feet firmly planted on the ground, however, Keep allowing yourself the time to acknowledge all you've achieved. Keep recognizing others and uplifting each other. Keep the spirt of Teacher Appreciation alive beyond the parameters of this month, and always take a moment to appreciate yourself and others! 

*Final Countdown posts coming soon! *