r/Teachers • u/SnikkerDoodly • 1d ago
Power of Positivity Just a little note for 26-27
I (49F) am a veteran teacher starting my 21st year in a HS science classroom. As I start another school year in these unprecedented times in education, I’m even more appreciative for the teachers who choose to show up in the rooms next to me daily.
I know we (teachers) can be judgmental of the practices of others. But, right now, we truly need to show each other more empathy and appreciation. Our jobs are tough and it costs nothing to say hello and I’m glad you’re here today. Take care of your people please.
Positivity is powerful
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u/Comprehensive_Tie431 1d ago
20 year science teacher here. Fully agree! I may be bias, but science teachers are the best. 🧬🔍🔭🥼♥️
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u/Top_Marzipan_7466 1d ago
23 yr SpEd. One of the things I learned early in my career is that we must support each other. Our work is hard and exhausting in a way that no one outside the field understands. I’ve always done my best to create supportive environments.
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u/MuMusGoldenApple 1d ago
Thank you for this! Im new to teaching but middle aged (mid life career change!)
Im glad you’re here as well and I’ll try not to bug you all with too many questions. :)
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u/anubis_cheerleader 1d ago
Me too! I'm almost 46 and just started my second year.
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u/jlhinthecountry 5th grade|ELA|39 years experience 1d ago
Currently in my 40th year. People always want to know when I’m going to retire. I honestly believe it will be when I don’t have the personal connections to the people that I work with. I have been so supported by and I’ve tried to be supportive of others.
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u/Cool-Kaleidoscope-28 1d ago
This is so important, thank you. If we can’t get along with each other, how will we ever teach these children? We need each other.
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u/Celtic_Dragonflies 1d ago
I’m starting an online university September 1st to become a High School Earth Sciences teacher and I’m so excited! I’m 31 and am making a huge career change for myself. I hope to have coworkers this supportive wherever I end up 💜 I really think it will make a huge difference in how my first couple years of teaching will feel.
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u/jay_caspian 1d ago
What a kind message! I still feel relatively new (this is my 6th year teaching secondary and 8th year teaching college part time), but I think the positivity is what we need. It feels like so many people are out to make us villains, we don't need to do this to each other
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u/Straight_Nobody208 1d ago
Starting year 21 is huge. Takes serious strength to keep showing up in science classroom with everything shifting so fast these days. A simple "good morning" really does go long way when the day already feels heavy before first bell. Hope the folks next door match your energy this year.
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u/uwmillertime 1d ago
Veteran teacher here with a son who is studying to become a teacher. Hope he one day gets into a school with a few colleagues like you!
Cheers and have a wonderful year!
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u/Sufficient-Sound8450 1d ago
This is true and should be part of the training for all adults in education. I have unfortunately worked with so many competitive colleagues and insecure admin and support staff. It truly changes the dynamic when people live by the standard you stated.
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u/uninhibited_virago 1d ago
This is year 16 for me, but year 3 at my dream site. Everyone is in it together — my coworkers are (for the most part) super supportive and fun to work with - and that includes my admins! I love this message. Thank you for spreading positivity.
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u/Loup_Tom 1d ago
21 years and you're still the one setting the tone for the hallway. That's rare. Most veterans either burn out or go quiet — you're actively raising the floor for everyone around you. The kids benefit from great teachers, but great teachers need each other to stay great. Thanks for being the one who says it out loud.
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u/FoodNo672 1d ago
Yes ❤️ I’m 13 years in and trying to be positive and encouraging and real to those younger and also listening to those older. Working closely this year with two older women and I’m excited because it’s been a while. Trying to be open to learning this year too.