I recently saw a Peanuts comic strip where Peppermint Patty says to Charlie Brown, “I wonder what teachers make.” Charlie Brown responds, “A difference Peppermint Patty, they make a difference!”
With August upon us, teachers everywhere are starting to prepare themselves for a new school year. My wife is one of them and will be working in new school system this year. Although this will be her 18th year teaching, the beginning a of new school year is always stressful and doing it in a new place with unfamiliar people will compound the stress. This morning, while discussing her new position and the preparations she is making, she said she was feeling both excited and anxious. Then she said, “But I have to affirm my feelings, and choose my behaviors.” Having just recertified as a Mandt System instructor a few weeks ago, I know she was making a joke, but I also know that it is something she believes and tries to implement in her work and life.
So to all the teachers out there. Many of you are under appreciated and under compensated, yet you keep working to teach our children and keep them safe. Thank you! Remember when you start to feel overwhelmed, take a step back and affirm how you feel and choose how to respond in the best way you can. By doing this, you will be creating safer environments for your students, coworkers, and yourselves. Have a great school year!
Doug ZehrVogt, Mandt Faculty
