| I opened my email last night with a note from a local teacher’s group titled “We are at a Crisis Point.” Well, that was not the inspiration I needed to bring confidence to you all as we head into the new school year. And, honestly, the more I avoid it, the more it keeps forcing me to confront it. “It” being all the facets of the broken system we teachers face every day. From staffing shortages to legislative attacks to curriculum changes, I, frankly, think all teachers need hazard pay at this point.
But, I am a forever optimist. To a fault. So I know, when my students step into my classroom on August 25th, they will fill me with light, energy, and purpose. And I will do the same for them.
When I feel this out of sorts and need grounding, YOU are the people I turn to for guidance. Your experiences and reassurances provide sanity to my reality. Your new lessons and strategies make me rethink my classroom routines. Your conversation and stories wrap around me in comfort. When I do not feel like I can give more energy to my students, you are there to light me back up at conferences, EngCamps, and in Zooms. These are the connections that sustain me between the moments when the world is collapsing.
At these times, the most important task we have is to take care of each other. When the outside world does not understand the gravity of our work, turn to those who do. And be gentle on yourselves. The system is broken. Not you.
Best,
Nikki Smith
ICTE President |
