Moms, our teachers need our support. The nationwide teacher shortage is evidence of the increased expectations and stress on our teachers without an increase in pay and support. And, although we can’t change everything, we can make a difference in the lives of the few teachers assigned to our children.
So we asked the teachers in the Gather Moms community what they need and don’t need. Hilariously, they don’t need more lotion, candles, signs with their names on them or chocolate. Here’s what they need:
WHAT TEACHERS NEED
ENCOURAGING WORDS
So often, teachers only hear from parents when there is a complaint or they can’t find a missing grade. Our teachers over and over said that the most meaningful gift they receive from parents is the one that costs nothing: a kind word. Send an email, put a card in your kid’s folder, post on their facebook page. Find a way to encourage teachers with your words and let them know you see them and are thankful for them.
COMMUNICATION FROM PARENTS
If there is an issue, go to the teacher first before going to the administration and, as much as possible, fill in the gap with trust. Most teachers do their jobs because they love to teach and love children. They don’t take on the role to make life harder for you or your child. Believe the best in them. Consider that your child’s side of the story may not be the only story and communicate with the teacher.
PARENTS TO READ COMMUNICATION FROM THE TEACHER
Check your child’s folder and read the emails and notes sent home. We are busy and this gets away from all of us, mamas! But teachers said that doing this helps so much for the parents to be aware of any issues as they are checking their children’s work and helps keep everyone on the same page.
GIFT CARDS, CLASSROOM SUPPLIES + VOLUNTEERING TO HELP
No shocker here that teacher’s favorite gifts are gift cards and they love it when parents help with classroom supplies or purchase an item from their Amazon wish list. If you are unable to support a teacher financially, consider offering to help her cut out shapes, staple papers or some other project that she can send home with your child.
PRAYERS
Our teachers are on the front lines shaping, guiding and leading the next generation. We want them to do that well and that means they need the equipping that only God can provide. Pray for your teachers. Pray with your children for the teachers. Pray over your schools. You might even set up a back to school prayer time with other moms in your neighborhood.
Mamas, we can make a difference by loving our teachers well. Let’s bless their socks off this year and let them know how thankful we are for them and that we have their backs!
