Appreciate Teachers, Before It's Too Late
10/4/2024
A friend of mine has been teaching fine arts for nearly a decade. His passion for the subject is undeniable, and like many teachers in specialized fields, he cares deeply about his work—often more than most of his students. So, you can imagine the immense joy he felt when one of his former students emailed him, sharing how a single lesson he taught changed the course of her life. That one message carried a value far beyond words, a reminder that teachers can have a life-changing impact. Yet, despite moments like these, according to Gallup,
only 25% of teachers say they’ve received recognition for their work in the last seven days"
The truth is, we don't appreciate our teachers enough, and the consequences are becoming increasingly clear. Regular recognition and praise can lead to higher productivity, better engagement, improved retention rates, and more satisfaction among students and parents alike. And here's the thing: showing appreciation doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Simple, authentic recognition—whether from colleagues, students, administrators, or family members—can go a long way. It’s essential that we ask teachers how they prefer to be recognized, making sure that our efforts are timely, meaningful, and personal.
While showing gratitude is important, it’s only the first step. The real challenge lies in addressing the broader systemic issues: offering better working conditions, increasing pay, improving school culture, and providing high-quality professional development opportunities. We here at JPEF have been at the forefront of developing teachers into leaders and supporting school leaders in specific skills. JPEF also leads the annual Teacher of the Year celebrations for Duval County, the EDDY Awards.
Teachers gave their all during the pandemic, adapting to unprecedented challenges, and continue to give their all today. Now, we owe it to them to invest in their future. By cultivating a supportive school environment, offering the professional learning they deserve, and raising their pay, we can ensure greater job satisfaction—and in turn, better outcomes for students. It’s time to appreciate our teachers, before it’s too late.