Whatever It Takes
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This pandemic opened our eyes to the inequities that have always been there. We have to do whatever it takes to be there for all of our kids, especially now. I wrote this article as a cross-post from my website. I updated it here because teachers continue to reach out to me asking for help. I want to do whatever I can to be there for teachers and kids.
The world continues to live with the pandemic. Health professionals are saying it may evolve into an endemic similar to the flu and colds, yet there are still questions and, even new variants we have to consider. Schools have opened thinking that things can go back to somewhat of a “normal” by wearing masks. It’s difficult to consider what will be our “normal” because now mask mandates are being lifted.
Let’s be real. There is no real “normal” anymore. I’m sure teachers and parents are wondering how we handle the next big thing that happens? There is talk about “learning loss” but, realistically, this is not taking into account all the hard work teachers did under chaotic conditions. It’s not taking into account the learning that did happen.
We need to be real. The whole world has been impacted. Like I said at the beginning, inequities that have always been there are more exposed. At this point, we need to be kind, caring, and empathetic to our amazing educators.
Teachers need support, flexible time, and strategies on how to meet each learner who might have experienced trauma or mental health issues. Kids and parents have experienced this also. Some are calling what all of us have experienced “moral trauma.”
Think about it. Have you had days where you’re just in a fog? Not sure what’s going on? You’re not alone.
Teachers need help to manage their own stress. With everything on their plates, teachers are overwhelmed, burning out, and leaving the profession. Families are confused and are concerned about their children and if they will be going to school the next day or if the school will be open or closed for good. That’s what’s happening in many cities around the country.
When kids are struggling, families are probably struggling also. What if we pause and take time to focus on “relationships” first?
Let’s do the HEART work before the HARD work. ~Dr. Basil Marin
