Submitted by Shalita Compton, Fleming County High School
Fleming County Schools
Grades 9-12
Social media has become the modern day teachers’ lounge. You may remember when you were a new teacher and one piece of advice you would hear was, stay out of the teachers’ lounge. This is because many times the lounge can become a place for gossip and negativity. Unfortunately, we become influenced by what we hear and see daily. Hopefully, everyone reading this has a positive teacher lounge. I honestly could not tell you about mine, because I don’t hang out there besides the occasional two minute stop for the copy machine or microwave.
I began thinking about social media and teacher posts because I follow several of the teachers’ sites that you can find on popular social media platforms. Upon scrolling, I noticed so many negative comments in regards to returning to school after Christmas/Winter break. I was shocked but also hurt by the people writing comments like, I vomited all day thinking about going back to work. That comment has lingered, making me wonder what teachers are carrying if it’s affecting them physically.
Finally, I came across a comment where a teacher gave the best advice I have ever seen on social media. I wish I had screenshot the comment so I could share, but I did not. Bear with me as I try to remember his tone and vibe. A teacher had posted a question asking how other teachers ease back into work after a long break. This gentleman began by talking about bringing some kind of excitement into the class upon return. As I read his ideas and suggestions, my own light bulb flashed brightly. This is what I do and this is how and why I thrive. I enjoy my job. I look forward to it! It wasn’t easy finding my niche. I too had days of crying, high anxiety and dread, but one day I decided enough was enough. I was going to love my job. I was going to figure out how, and I did.
I teach art, and while many think teaching art is all fun and games, it comes with its own set of challenges. I love art, and although I don’t consider myself a very talented artist, I absolutely love the art of others. I love variety. I love traditions. I love Christmas. I love messy projects… so I decided to bring all of my loves into my classroom. Those loves can be the spark, that small spark that keeps you going. Think about this for a moment. What small spark drew you to teaching? What do you love about teaching? What kinds of projects would you love to do with your students that align with standards and also make you happy? Does this take some planning, yes, but it is worth it. When you love coming to school it pours out of your pores! The students feel it, the staff takes notice and everyone begins to smile because positivity is contagious. When we intentionally replace negativity with positivity things will begin to look up.
Obviously I cannot give advice on what to do to make math, science, social studies etc exciting for you because that is not my expertise, but you can! Write a list of what you love. Go at the list like a crazy, creative writing ramble and write anything and everything. If you teach math but you love to make candy, write it down. You never know when an idea will lead to something you could use in your class. That small spark may be enough to turn any dread into love! Find a few exciting things that will encourage you to look forward to your job and do those. Even the smallest spark could be enough.
Your interests and spark will look different from mine. This is why education books don’t always work, but always become outdated. My spark looks like funky SEL projects that only last an hour, altered books where the students’ work becomes the scrapbook of memories and finals that are created to be interactive, hands-on and weird. I hope you find your inspirational sparks and remember that even a small one is enough.
