Today, I would like to blog about teacher morale. Webster defines morale as the mental or emotional condition (as of enthusiasm, confidence or loyalty) of an individual in regards to the function or tasks at hand.
Over the years, I have seen many a young teacher come into the profession filled with excitement and enthusiasm only to become disillusioned by large class size and a lack of favorable working conditions, not enough teaching materials, and lack of administrative support just to name a few
As I mentioned in earlier posts, I currently teach kindergarten in a private K-12 school. When I left the public school system, I took a significant pay cut for a teacher with an advanced degree and thirty-one years of experience. Has the lower salary had an affect on my morale? I would have to answer a resounding no! As a matter of fact, it has improved significantly for the following reasons:
- My school seeks to serve as a model Christ-centered college preparatory school.
- Lower class size allows me to provide more individualized instruction.
- There is a great deal of parental support.
- My Principal stands behind her teachers and supports their authority in enforcing policy.
- There is a lack of unnecessary teaching duties.
- My school has a clear vision, mission and philosophy.
- I can have prayer with my students.
- My Principal guards our instructional time.
- We have very favorable working conditions.
- It is wonderful to work with inspirational teachers who are strong Christian role models for students.
Today, I strive to keep the freshness and spark that I had as a new teacher while using the wisdom and knowledge I have acquired through experience over the last thirty-four years. Sometimes my body doesn't always cooperate such as when I play dodge-ball or basketball with my students the way it used to. I don't recall hearing it creak when I jumped rope when I was in my twenties. Fortunately, my spirit doesn't waiver. I feel so blessed to be working in a place that provides a strong biblical and educational foundation for each student.
Speaking of inspiration, I have been inspired by many fine bloggers who are simply blogtastic in every sense of the word. Just like teachers, I think a great blogger needs to be recognized for for his or her efforts as well.
I would like to present to you my blog roll of outstanding and inspirational blogs. My recipients don't have to answer any questions about themselves. All they have to do is keep writing in their wonderful individual styles. I would encourage you to visit them.
Ellen In America
All God's Creatures
Single Mom In A Complicated World
I've Become My Mother
Wool n' Nuts
A Teacher's Faith
The Four Scarbarys
Debbiedoos
Daily Gems From God's Jewelry Box
Hope's Breath
A Shimmy In My Spirit
This Is The Day
A Substitute Teacher's Saga
On My Own
Life Homeade
Pure Joy
Kbladosdesign
Living My Life, Whatever
Love To Teach
