Keeping the Flame of Teaching Alive

Rosario DC. Alfonso

In any kind of profession, passion is very crucial in order to be successful in that profession. Most especially with teachers, the passion for teaching should be kept burning.

But, given the uncertainties and challenges of today’s education situation, how can teachers keep their passion alive?

First, be open to change. The only thing you can count on as a teacher is that there will be continuous change. Being open to change and staying positive about the potential impacts new initiatives could have on your teaching and students is one of the biggest things you can do to keep your passion as a teacher.

Second, put your students first. Take time to observe your students, then imagine how you’re going to impact their lives. Don’t think about how your students should be, or the students you wish were in front of you. Embrace the unique students that walk through your class every year.

Third, keep positive co-worker relationships. You might have a lot of co-workers, but not everyone can become your friend. Find the co-worker who is positive, works toward solutions, advocates for students, and cares about people. Stay close to those people, learn from them, and be that person for someone else.

Lastly, make priorities. As a teacher, you have to accept the fact that you will always have a to-do list and you will never reach the bottom of it. You have to know how to prioritize what needs to be done, give yourself small wins, and be okay with leaving some items for another day.

As teachers, we worry about being perfect, or that we don’t do something at all or let one task absolutely consume us. But, I tell you, we’re all all doing a great job so far!

--oOo-

The author is Teacher III at Tacasan Elementary School