10 WAYS TO LIFT UP YOUR TEACHERS

Teaching is hard work but providing recognition for a job well done isn't.  Praise and recognition are essential to an outstanding school culture and climate. As human beings we naturally want to be respected and valued by others for our contributions.  When teachers and their work are valued, their satisfaction and productivity rises.  They are motivated to maintain or improve their good work.

Here are 10 easy ways that you as principal can lift up, encourage and recognize your teachers for the great work they do every day.  Implementing any one of these suggestions takes little time and most are free or cost less than a daily latte at your favorite coffee stop.  The potential benefits however can be immeasurable.

1.  Cover their duty.
2. Leave unsolicited but genuine sticky notes of praise or encouragement on their classroom door.
3. Send handwritten cards of appreciation.
4. Catch them doing "good" and leave them "good themed" treats such as a Mr. Goodbar, Smarties, or Good n Plenty.
5. Keep a "Good Stuff" book and record good things you observe your teachers doing throughout the month and open your monthly faculty meetings with readings from the "Good Stuff" book.
6. Create social media "shout outs" to recognize what your teachers are doing.
7. Designate an upfront, near the door parking spot as a recognition award for a job well done.  You can rotate award recipients weekly or monthly.  Be sure to add a special "Reserved" sign.
8. Award GEM certificates.  These are certificates given out to teachers that you've seen or heard about that "Go the Extra Mile"-  something really above and beyond the call of duty.
9. Have a rotating trophy, stuffed animal, mascot, figurine or any other fun type item that is given to a teacher who exemplifies one of your school's identified core values.
10. Surprise treats...food, coffee, tea, bottled water...just because.  There are some days when we just need a little "pick-me-up" because we are having a tough day. Sometimes we all just need a little extra dose of kindness to get through the day.  No particular reason or criteria is needed. It's given from the heart, just because you care about your people.

Be kind.  Give sincere praise.  Exhibit servant leadership.  Recognize those that work so hard despite great odds.  These are the character traits of an exceptional principal.  And the cool thing about this? Any one can do it and to do so costs nothing but a few minutes of your time.