Search Institute

So we’re wrapping up Teacher Appreciation Week. I’m not a cynic. I like this week. I like the idea of it. I’m glad we have it. But I’m also a bit leery of it. Here’s a passage from my book that illustrates my misgivings:

There’s something just a little off about Teacher Appreciation Week, at least if looked at in a certain light. My primary concerns go a little something like this.

1. If we think of appreciating teachers (or any other profession for that matter) as an annual event, we could fail to recognize the need for respect and appreciation on a more daily and ongoing fashion.

2. If teachers themselves buy into the idea that this week marks a departure from what might be an under-appreciated experience, we can grow increasingly complacent with a less than satisfying daily experience.

So again, I have no bones to pick with the concept of this week. I just don’t want us to think of a healthy, empowering work and community culture as a sporadic thing. This is the sort of work that needs deep and intentional nurturing all the time.

That said, THANKS TEACHERS FOR EVERYTHING YOU’RE DOING! YOU ARE ROCK STARS.