Your Children’s Educators Are Already Losing Sleep

Parenting

Your Children’s Educators Are Already Losing Sleep
by Jessica Marlow
Updated: Aug. 20, 2021

Since I began my teaching career 18 years ago, back-to-school nightmares have been a constant. These dreams often revolve around me being unable to reach school due to various obstacles, from car accidents to wandering pets. Another recurring scenario features me frantically searching for my classroom within the school.

Recently, I had a dream that escalated this anxiety. I had requested a personal day, but my request never went through, leaving me to inform the school of my absence. Upon arrival, I struggled through throngs of students just to reach the office. After notifying them, I faced the daunting task of locating my classroom to leave lesson plans — and, of course, I couldn’t find it.

I tried a systematic search but ended up wandering through a bizarre, imaginary building without success. I inadvertently disrupted other classes in my quest. There were groups of students engaged in some sort of scavenger hunt, making my search even longer. I told myself not to look outside, as that usually leads to trouble in dreams, yet somehow, I found myself outside, locked out, having left my bag with my keys inside. I felt trapped, frustrated, and scared, eventually collapsing on the ground, where I realized the grass felt strikingly real. Crawling toward the front of the building, I searched for a friend and confessed, “I can’t find my room. I must be having a breakdown.” This thought jolted me awake.

Psychologists could analyze this dream in various ways, but I’m sharing it to illustrate the mindset of a generally well-adjusted teacher this summer.

In a typical year, educators face overwhelming demands, from high-stakes testing to mastering new technology and addressing the social and emotional needs of our students, all while managing an extensive curriculum. Last year was especially tough, filled with unpredictable schedules, anxious students, and many of us juggling in-person and online teaching. We had to create countless new lessons to engage both physically present students and those learning from home, often with challenges in participation. To say it was difficult would be an understatement.

I recognize that many have faced hardships, and teachers are not alone in this struggle. However, as an educator, I want to highlight that a significant portion of us contemplated leaving the profession this year. As we prepare to return to school with your children, please understand that our priority is their safety and our desire to teach effectively, unlike last year. We often find ourselves metaphorically struggling to reach our classrooms, filled with the love for our profession.

So, I kindly ask for your patience, kindness, and hope. Though I may be a bit sleep-deprived this fall, I’m determined to approach each day with compassion and optimism, knowing it’s needed by all of us.

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Summary:

Educators face immense pressure, especially after the challenges of the previous school year. As they prepare for the upcoming term, understanding parents can help create a supportive environment for both teachers and students. Patience, kindness, and hope are vital as teachers navigate their roles while also grappling with their own anxieties.

Keyphrase: educator stress and support

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