Today I thought that I would share some ideas that will just make your teaching life easier. It’s not rocket science, nor do you need a master’s degree to implement them. They are just common sense ways that will make your day run smoothly.
Use your own mug. One casual teaching day I grabbed a mug from the staffroom and sat down to have a cup of tea. I wondered why one of the teachers was scowling at me. Doris was watching someone else drink out of the ‘Doris Mugs.’
Pay for your tea and coffee. If you use the tea, milk or coffee it’s a privilege. Make sure that you put money in to cover your cuppa.
Take notes in meetings. It’s important to take notes for two reasons: it helps you remember what has been said, and it makes your look like you are paying attention.
Be courteous with staff members. Just be nice. Say please, say thank you and show a smile. It doesn’t cost anything.
Thank people specifically. When your praise people, be specific. ‘I really appreciated the way that your spoke to Jane’s parents about the issue in class. Thank you’ is far more effective than ‘Good job with the assemble.’
Check your emails regularly. I check my emails each day at 8am and at 3:30PM when I finish. It’s just good practice to reply to emails and stay on top of your inbox.
Look at the duty roster. I am guilty of forgetting my duties. Each day, remind yourself of when and when your duties are.
If you jam the photocopier then fix it. It’s just bad manners. If your jam the copier, just fix it.
Say hi to the office staff. The office staff are the backbone of the school. Things that seem to just happen, don’t. Be appreciative.
Plan your day before it starts. I write down everything that I need to do for that day. I keep a detailed daybook and I write down my to-do lists. If it is in your head it will distract you from teaching.
What can think of that will just make your day easier?