Published on: October 15, 2023

As the year winds down, I find myself—like my students—crossing off the days on the calendar. This halfway point in the academic year always calls for reflection. As students excitedly remind me that assessments are ending and the Christmas party is approaching, and faculty swap Secret Santa guesses, I make a checklist of all I need to ensure before the semester concludes.

Feedback: A Key Responsibility

Providing feedback is crucial, not only to learners but also to faculty. Both need to know what has gone well and where there’s room for improvement. This reflection ensures everyone starts the new semester on the same page and with a clear understanding of their progress(https://www.classcraft.com/blog/features/return-to-teaching-after-a-holiday/). Equally important is listening to their feedback so I can offer support where needed, helping them bridge any gaps that may have appeared throughout the academic year.

Leaving the Mess Behind

As the year wraps up, I remind myself to leave any unresolved issues in the past. My goal is to return to a clean and organized classroom in January, allowing me to welcome a fresh start. Alongside the usual New Year’s resolutions, like focusing on personal health, I commit to leaving any past challenges in the past, creating a space ready for new growth.

Reconnecting with Family

For many teachers, family life often comes second to our students’ needs. Our families are accustomed to finding graded papers on the dining table and resources scattered throughout the house. Now is the time to prioritize them, acknowledging their patience and support as they wait for us to finally be “off-duty.” It may be tiring, but dedicating time to them is essential.

Focusing on Self-Care

For many teachers, family life often comes second to our students’ needs. Our families are accustomed to finding graded papers on the dining table and resources scattered throughout the house. Now is the time to prioritize them, acknowledging their patience and support as they wait for us to finally be “off-duty.” It may be tiring, but dedicating time to them is essential.

Focus on myself

The holidays are the only time that teachers can become selfish and pretend, at least for a little while, that their time is their own. I use the time to read even more (about to finish this https://www.anthonyhorowitz.com/books/list/series/the-power-of-five and about to start http://sirkenrobinson.com/product/you-your-child-and-school/), listen to my podcasts (latest favourite: https://slate.com/podcasts/hit-parade), maybe even watch some of the million TV shows and films I have added to my watch-lists (latest obsession: https://www.hbo.com/watchmen and the big one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14EztMXh5vQ) and, of course, my favourite, Travel.

Reminding Myself Why It’s Worth It

As the new year approaches, I begin thinking about upcoming graduations, new teachers and students joining, and the excitement of the second half of the academic year. Teaching has always been my passion, and these reflections remind me of the purpose and fulfillment this profession provides. I hope you all enjoy a wonderful holiday season and return rejuvenated, ready to embrace the opportunities of the new year.

Share