A New School Year

Guest Blog By Dorothy Morelli CEO of CREATE  and Caroline Hendren

As an educator, the beginning of a new school year can be exciting, exhilarating, and exhausting.  It is always exciting to think about the wonderful possibilities of a new school year.  It is also exhilarating to envision the gains our students will achieve in the coming months.  It is also exhausting with all the things that need to be accomplished, which include preparing classrooms, purchasing supplies, writing scope and sequence, meeting new colleagues, and, of course, welcoming students and parents/caregivers.  Before you know it, if we are not careful, the excitement and exhilaration have turned to pure exhaustion. 

Through the extensive research of Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl and colleagues we know that there is a very direct and strong relationship between teacher well-being and student well-being (93% of studies show this connection). Further 84% of the studies showed a positive connection  between teacher well-being and student learning and achievement

.  This year, we would like for you to set an intention to create a better work-life balance.  Some possible ways to do this could be setting aside time to take a walk, listening to music, reading a chapter of a favorite book each night, visiting with a friend, or enjoying CREATE’s audio practices. CARE practices

There are many ways to help create work-life balance, and before the exhaustion sets in, we hope you find one or two ways that will help you continue the excitement and exhilaration you find in your teaching career.

Remember that when educators are well, students thrive.  It is not selfish to consider your own needs and prioritize your own well-being.  Prioritizing your own well-being allows you to be present for students. Enjoy the school year and remember your intention of creating a work-life balance. 

CREATE for Education is an expert provider of evidence-based programs to help educators cultivate resilience and well-being to support student success.We have expertise in Adult SEL, Empowering Youth, Restorative Practices and Systems Transformation. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you reduce teacher stress, improve teacher wellness, and create healthier and more caring schools for all.