Prioritizing teachers’ well-being

TEACHERS are the unsung heroes of the educational system and tend to be underrepresented and overworked. Studies show that teachers face a high turnover rate in schools due to burnout. Stressors at work and in their daily lives may impact their ability to be responsive and effective in the classroom.

Healthy employees are a crucial component of a happy and progressive school. A healthy and stress-free workplace makes for satisfied and high performing employees. Such school employees are more likely to be happy in their position of work and tend to stay longer. They display good attendance records and take fewer leaves, thus providing the stability and continued development which is very essential for educational success.

It is therefore very beneficial for schools to carry out workplace wellness programs that covers all school staff. By creating a culture of healthy lifestyle—from being more physically active to eating healthier foods and carrying out hygienic practices, wellness programs improve employee morale and increases an individual’s focusing ability, among many other benefits.

Stress management is an important aspect that a workplace wellness programs address. Schools are dominated by female teachers who have to devote time and look after students in schools and back home to their own families. Hectic lifestyles leave employees with no time to look after themselves. Hence, wellness programs step in to address issues like lack of physical activity, stress management, etc. The adoption of healthy behaviors results in reducing risks of life-threatening diseases and their associated costs.

Teachers and other staff could also be offered additional training on aspects of the job they find most challenging—which, if not addressed, can lead to poor mental health. Ultimately, we want statutory wellbeing policies in all education institutions, for regulators to prioritize staff wellbeing in their assessments, and for policymakers to acknowledge the vital role teachers play in educating the next generation by properly listening to their concerns.