New Year's Resolutions for Teachers

New Year’s Resolutions for Teachers- 2012

While you are at home or on a family vacation recharging your batteries for the second half of the school year, here are some goals to strive for in the New Year.

1)      Remember, your students’ come first!

2)      Reach out to the parents. They are your partners in the quest for academic success.

3)      Enhance your own teaching skills. Seek out opportunities for professional development.

4)      Be politically astute and active.  Remember 2012 is a presidential election year and your vote counts! Regardless of your party affiliation, stay in the game. If you teach in a high school, be sure that you are not trying to influence the political leaning of your students.

5)      Every teacher is a teacher of reading. Encourage your students to read- out loud, to themselves, to their families.

6)      You too should keep up with your reading. Be sure to let your students see you reading at every possible opportunity. There are so many wonderful books for teachers (like Harry Wong’s, The First Days of School).

7)       Be your own press agent.  Plan public activities with your students that draw positive local media attention. The town taxpayers, who pay for public schools, like to keep abreast of what is happening in local schools.

8)      Be an active supporter of school activities. Attend the spring concert or the annual school theatrical production.  Go to a school sporting event. You are, after all, an integral part of the school community.

9)      Strive for excellence. Make certificates for your students who meet or exceed certain goals.

Reward their good work.

10)   Maintain an open dialogue and positive relationships with your department supervisors and building administrators.

 HAPPY NEW YEAR. Here is hoping that 2012 is a successful and productive one for you and your students.