As we approach the end of the year, many teachers are starting to think about the upcoming break and the challenges that may come with it. One teacher recently reached out to We Are Teachers for advice on how to handle a sudden departure of a colleague and the stress of preparing for a long-term substitute.
The teacher, who goes by the name T.C.H.W., expressed their frustration at their 1st grade partner teacher quitting right before the holidays. They were overwhelmed with the thought of all the tasks they needed to do to prepare for the substitute. However, the advice given was to take a step back and not jump into preparation mode right away. Instead, it was recommended to use the break to rest and recharge, jot down tasks in a journal or on a phone for later, and let the principal handle the immediate stress of finding a replacement.
Another teacher, W.M.T.C., raised concerns about the two-day school week after winter break and how to make the most of it without diving into heavy content. Suggestions included prepping students on vocabulary or prior knowledge for upcoming units and engaging in team-building activities to create a strong classroom community.
Lastly, a teacher named P.P. sought advice on how to handle a student with an accommodation for preferential seating in their IEP. The teacher was unsure if “preferential” meant the student could choose their seat daily, causing disruption in the classroom. The recommendation was to clarify with the IEP/SpEd coordinator and potentially reconvene the IEP team to revisit how the accommodation was working.
In another query, a teacher expressed discomfort with their school’s holiday party due to inappropriate behavior from colleagues. They sought advice on how to suggest toning down the party without being labeled a party pooper.
Overall, the key takeaway from these scenarios is the importance of communication, seeking clarification when unsure, and prioritizing self-care during stressful times. It’s essential for teachers to set boundaries, advocate for their students’ needs, and address uncomfortable situations in a professional manner. If you have any burning questions or need advice, you can always reach out to We Are Teachers for support.
