Teacher Appreciation

Hello Friends,

Several years ago, while serving at the middle school level, I had the privilege of working with an assistant principal, Bronwyn Sullenberger, who started mentor lunches for new teachers. Each month, she met with first-year teachers to answer questions, share instructional strategies, assist with grading practices, and provide support during that critical first year. Her goal was simple yet powerful, help new teachers feel confident, supported, and successful.

Fast forward a few years, and I am now serving as principal at Central High School. During my first year, I was learning the campus myself and focusing on understanding our systems, traditions, and culture. In my second year, I knew I wanted to implement something similar, but with an expanded vision.

This year, we established five lunches for New to CHS Teachers. Rather than limiting participation to first-year teachers, we invited all teachers new to our campus. Whether new to the profession or simply new to CHS, we want every teacher to feel supported and connected.

During these lunches, I am joined by our Academic Dean and our Instructional Coach. We meet in the large conference room to answer questions about procedures, expectations, instruction, grading, and campus culture. When the questions slow down, we enjoy playing fun get to know you games that help build relationships and strengthen connections among staff.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. We currently have 20 teachers participating across our four lunch periods, and the conversations, collaboration, and camaraderie have been wonderful to see. More importantly, it has allowed our new to CHS teachers to see me in a relaxed environment.

In order to make our New to CHS Teacher Lunches even more special, the always amazing Amanda Steelman with Spurrier Group Realty provides lunch. If you don't have a Amanda, you can have the teachers bring their lunch. The key to these lunches is to provide your new staff with your time and undivided attention.

This is a simple and easy way to help your new teachers feel comfortable, confident, and connected to your school.

Join my new Teacher Appreciation Facebook Group to share ideas, celebrate our amazing educators, and spread a little extra gratitude. Let’s make sure our teachers feel the love all year long! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/17K84qs8Yc/

Bring me to your District!

I offer engaging, fun, and hands-on professional development for campus leaders designed to increase teacher retention. You can find more information about presentations and workshops on my webpage.

Bring me to your School!

If you would like me to help you create a detailed teacher appreciation plan for your campus, or you would like me to mentor and work with your administrative team on your campus contact me at Kathleen.Eckert@iCloud.com.

Newsletters

Sign up for and view all of my Newsletters about Teacher Appreciation on my webpage.

Thank you for loving teachers,

Kathleen Eckert

Check out my book, School Transformation Through Teacher Appreciation, available on Amazon, for more teacher appreciation ideas.