There’s a part of me that wants to word this very carefully so that I do not offend anyone because I don’t like ruffling feathers. Then there’s a part of me that says to just say what I want to say, and what I want to say really isn’t that offensive. I just want to say – Be Better. Teachers, administrators, educators, Be Better. 

We want respect for the teaching profession – give respect. We want students to follow classroom rules – then follow rules handed down by administration. We want students to turn things in on time – then we should as well. We want students to be to class on time – then get to work on time. We want parents and the community to value us, our word, and what we do in the classroom – then stop putting their kids, the school, the community, and your coworkers on blast via social media. The little memes that are supposed to be funny – yeah, I’m over them. They are degrading to students, other teachers, and our professionalism. 

Be better. Come on, guys! We are adults, and even though we live in an era of free speech and do what makes “you” happy – we can’t. We, educators, were made to serve others. It’s deep in our souls. If we are truly going to do that then we have to set the best possible example. Sometimes that means not posting, not doing, turning the other cheek, and making sure we do the best that we can do in every aspect of our job. Even bus duty.

We chose this profession. Let’s be the best we can for kids and our fellow coworkers. If we are not careful we will push away future teachers. Why would they want to work in a profession where the employees are seemingly so unhappy? Let me tell you something, this profession is not for the faint of heart. It’s hard, and there are some bad days. But the good days are so much better. If your day stinks call your mom. Vent to your teaching partner. That’s what they are there for. But please – don’t publicly bash my profession. Don’t publicly bash students or your community. I love this job. I am where God wants me to be, and I know that with every fiber within me. I want more excitement. I want more teachers working through the trenches to make a difference. To make a change. And regardless of paperwork, cafeteria duty, or situations that break your heart – scream the positives. Drown out the negatives. We are in this together. Let’s Be Better. 

*Thank you Bethany Hill for inspiration.