STRIVE IS HERE TO SUPPORT YOU IN CREATING A TENDER, LOVING, AND CARING (TLC) CULTURE AT YOUR SCHOOL. IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR FOSTERING A POSITIVE AND SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT WHERE TEACHERS, LEADERS, AND COACHES (TLC) CAN THRIVE AND, IN TURN, PROVIDE THE BEST EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE FOR STUDENTS. HERE ARE SOME PRACTICAL IDEAS ADMINISTRATORS, INSTRUCTIONAL COACHES, AND LEADERSHIP TEAMS CAN IMPLEMENT TO INFUSE TENDER, LOVING, CARE (TLC) INTO THE SCHOOL CULTURE:
PERSONALIZED WELCOME AND ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
Greeting at the Door: Administrators, coaches, or counselors can make it a habit to greet teachers and staff members at the school entrance each morning. A warm smile, a friendly hello, and a genuine interest in their well-being can set a positive tone for the day.
Name Tags: Provide name tags for everyone in the school, including teachers, students, and support staff. This promotes a sense of belonging and creates a more inclusive atmosphere.
REGULAR CHECK-INS AND COMMUNICATION:
Scheduled Conversations: Set up regular one-on-one or small group check-ins between administrators, coaches, and teachers. These sessions can provide a safe space for sharing concerns, celebrating successes, and building deeper relationships.
Appreciation Notes: Encourage leaders and coaches to write handwritten notes expressing gratitude and appreciation for the hard work and dedication of teachers. Simple gestures can have a profound impact.
EMPOWERMENT AND PROFESSIONAL GROWTH:
Teacher-Led PD Sessions: Allow teachers to share their expertise and lead professional development sessions. This promotes collaboration, shows respect for their knowledge, and encourages a growth mindset.
Goal Setting: Collaboratively set professional goals with teachers, leaders, and coaches. Regularly revisit these goals and offer support to help everyone achieve their aspirations.
CREATING JOYFUL EVENTS:
Theme Days: Organize occasional theme days to add a touch of fun and excitement to the school routine. These could include “Appreciation Day,” “Crazy Sock Day,” or “Kindness Day” to uplift spirits.
Random Acts of Kindness: Encourage teachers, leaders, and coaches to perform random acts of kindness for one another. It could be as simple as leaving a small gift on someone’s desk or writing a note of encouragement.
Compliment Campaign: Launch a school-wide “Compliment Campaign” where students and staff can write anonymous compliments about their peers or colleagues. Share these compliments during morning announcements or through a school newsletter.
PROMOTE SELF-CARE:
Wellness Resources: Share resources on stress management, mindfulness, and work-life balance during staff meetings.
Consider inviting wellness experts to lead short sessions.
Designated Break Areas: Create cozy corners or break rooms where teachers can unwind and recharge during the day.
VISIBLE LEADERSHIP AND FEEDBACK:
Visible Leadership: Administrators and coaches should be visible around the school, engaging with teachers and students regularly. This shows accessibility and builds a sense of community.
Principal’s Walk-and-Talk: Have the principal walk through classrooms and common areas during the day to engage with students and teachers. This provides an opportunity for quick interactions and building relationships.
Constructive Feedback: Encourage a culture of constructive feedback by focusing on strengths and growth areas. Regularly communicate praise and areas for improvement in a supportive manner.
Teacher Shout-Outs: Implement a “Teacher Shout-Out” bulletin board where students and colleagues can post notes of appreciation for specific teachers. This board celebrates positive interactions and relationships.
CELEBRATING MILESTONES:
Anniversary Celebrations: Recognize and celebrate the tenure of teachers, leaders, and coaches at the school. Acknowledge their dedication and commitment.
Student Success Spotlights: Share stories of student achievements and positive impacts, highlighting the collective efforts of the school community.
Student Impact Stories: Share stories from former students who credit specific teachers, coaches, or leaders with helping them succeed in their academic and personal journeys. These stories highlight the long-lasting impact of the school community.
We must take care of the teachers, leaders, and coaches that take care of our children.
-Debbie
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