A February 4th newspaper story titled "Teacher morale scores decline" could have just been the title. No article needed. With pressure coming from every direction, it's difficult to get up in the morning with a spring in your step and a smile on your face.
A few years back our district discontinued its yearly morale survey. We were all disappointed as it helped to have a way to communicate our concerns. Perhaps the powers that be no longer wanted to know about the stress being inflicted on its worker bees.
The biggest stress for me was the lack of support from administrators. Leading by intimidation does not work. Coming in to evaluate a teacher with a scowling face and only pointing out the negative does not work. Yet, this seems to be the style of a lot of principals. One has to wonder where they went to "Principal School". Do they perform better when they are made to feel less than human? I kind of doubt it.
Before some of you beat me up, let me assure you that for the most part, my students did very well. I am a self motivating kind of person and am always striving to do better. My lesson plans were constantly evaluated and changed . . . by me. Even now as a childbirth educator, I enjoy reading and studying to stay up with new research. I love my students and want to do what is best for them.
Principals need to offer teachers support, words of encouragement, praise, offers of help, and an open door policy where teachers are not afraid to come and express their concerns. Evaluations should not be scary. Working together in a non threatening environment can improve test scores and the mental and physical health of everyone involved.