The Starting Point

Happy 2025!

I hope as you are reading this, you're still smiling from celebrating with friends and family, enjoying some down time, and eating all the goodies you could get your hands on.

It's second semester! Some of you will receive a batch of all new students on January 8. Those that have students for the entire year will welcome students back and hear about all they did over the course of almost 3 full weeks! This return to classes will be a moment of resetting for you as a teacher - how will you reestablish expectations for your students that you've had all year, and how will you reset your own habits so that you can find that work-life balance we talked about last month while also improving your practices as an educator?

In February, the district will have all BTs come together for the BT Collaborative called "Sweet Strategies." We'll be working on foundations of lesson planning and dedicating time for you to focus, plan, collaborate, and receive additional support from district coaches and leaders. Soon you will receive your time and location so you'll know exactly when you'll attend. This is a fabulous opportunity to dig in to your lesson planning strategies and get ahead.

Keep growing,

~Lydia

Dear Defeated -

I hear you loud and clear! Teaching is often a thankless job, but the fact that you’re concerned about doing your best and seeking solutions tells me that you're dedicated and have a true passion for your work. Feeling pulled in opposite directions by conflicting feedback is emotionally exhausting, but it’s not uncommon.

Remember, teaching isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. When you hear positive feedback, accept it as recognition of your hard work. When criticism comes, try to view it as an opportunity for growth rather than a judgment of your worth. Consider the source: Are these critiques constructive? Do they come with actionable suggestions? If not, focus on what’s within your control. After all, we have no control over what others say, do, or think; but we can control our own reaction to the feedback we receive.

As cliché as it may feel, think about your “why.” Why did you become a teacher? Reflect on the impact you’re making. It might help to keep a journal of small victories—like the student who finally understood a concept or the parent who expressed gratitude. Keep a notebook or file with the notes and other mementos of your work.

Also, don’t hesitate to lean on your support system. Your mentor can provide perspective, strategies, or just a listening ear, and there are likely many others at your school who have insight they can share.

Most importantly, give yourself grace. Growth takes time, and you’re still learning—as we all are. The best teachers aren’t those who never struggle but those who keep showing up, reflecting, and striving to improve.

You’ve got this!

Submit questions about teaching, work-life balance, discipline, and more. Examples:

• What do we do if there's a lockdown?
• One of my students told me he hated me. I can't get past it. Ideas?
• I don't know how to respond to an angry parent. How do I navigate this?
• Do you have any suggestions for making friends with teachers I don't know?