Lately, my social media feed has been filled with stories from teachers describing a landscape of intense stress and frustration. Teachers report students struggling with basic skills, facing challenges with impulse control, respect, and self-regulation. They express a feeling of being unsupported by administrators, sometimes by parents, and often mention feeling at a loss. Many—both new and veteran teachers alike—are sharing that this reality feels entirely unfamiliar and are unsure if they wish to remain in the profession.

This should concern us all. They are telling us that our children are not thriving, and they, our teachers, feel out of answers. Let’s sit with that, reflect on its implications, and recall the time when schools were closed and all of us faced a world turned upside down.

As a grandparent, I remember doing “school” with my grandsons during the pandemic—Chromebooks, headphones, and all. We worked side by side in my at-home office, navigating Zoom meetings and Slack notifications amid real anxiety and a new way of living and working. For many, jobs depended on adapting to that sudden shift, and we all faced the uncertainty of what was next.

Now, after what was essentially a massive experiment in remote work, many are returning to the office, losing the flexibility they initially gained. A recent report shared that over 40% of the workforce isn’t seeking promotions—they prefer the freedom that remote work has allowed, knowing most managers are required to return to the office. It’s as though we’re trying to put the genie back in the bottle, but people are finding it hard to return to “how things were.”

Our students, too, grew accustomed to learning in short bursts, then filling their time with gaming, YouTube, and TikTok, often unsupervised as parents juggled work and home life. Returning to traditional school routines is challenging for them, just as it is for adults and work.

In many ways, our students’ struggles mirror those of adults navigating the post-COVID world. The difference? While adults can seek alternative employment or pivot, our kids depend on teachers to help them find their way back to the rhythm of school. Yet, teachers now face the added challenge of competing with the instant gratification and personalized engagement of digital content in an environment that hasn’t yet caught up. It’s a monumental task, and we need to take a moment to acknowledge that.

No matter where you stand on educational debates, I think we can all agree: the work of a teacher is beyond noble—it’s a critical national priority. If we want to remain leaders in the global market, we must support those who shape the next generation. So, today, let’s take a step forward to express gratitude for our teachers. Whether it’s a shoutout on Facebook, a PTA note, a school newsletter article, or even a handwritten card, let’s acknowledge the educators who show up daily for our kids.

Ever wonder what happens between drop-off and pick-up? A lot. That’s why my grandsons now read with ease, calculate their allowances, and reason through discussions. It’s not magic; it’s teaching. And I am deeply grateful. Please join me in expressing appreciation, encouragement, and a commitment to stand with the educators who guide our children—our future.

Reflections for Grounding and Relief

As we recognize these challenges, here are questions designed to help our teachers (and ourselves) find moments of grounding, calm, and release amid the demands of the week.

Start with the Here and Now

• What’s one thing that’s actually going okay right now? Recognizing small moments of stability or wins can bring comfort, even on tough days.

Acknowledge Your Reality and Emotions

• What has this day taken from you, and what do you need to feel seen and supported? Simply acknowledging your feelings can be a powerful step toward relief and validation.

A Tiny Step for Self-Care

• What’s one small way you could care for yourself today, like drinking water, eating lunch, or taking a few minutes outdoors? Small acts remind you that your well-being is essential, especially when things feel overwhelming.

Celebrate Small Victories

• What’s one thing you managed to get through this week, big or small? Acknowledging progress reminds you of your resilience.

Set a Tiny Win for Tomorrow

• What’s one small thing you can do tomorrow to make a difference? Small goals add a touch of positivity to the day.

Release Perfection

• What’s one expectation you could release to give yourself breathing room? Letting go of just one pressure can create space for grace and compassion.

Reconnect with Your Purpose

• Amid everything, what’s one thing you still love about teaching or your students? Reflecting on why you started can rekindle a sense of meaning.

Embrace “Good Enough”

• What would it mean to let ‘good enough’ be enough this week? Sometimes, focusing on what’s sustainable is exactly what’s needed.

Reflect on Highlights and Lowlights

• At week’s end, what wins can you celebrate? What lessons did challenges teach you? This reflection builds resilience and a readiness to face the week ahead.

In times of crisis, survival instincts often make it hard to take on big changes. These questions provide a sense of grounding and empowerment, little by little. Let’s offer this kind of support to our teachers, honoring their work and the lives they impact daily.

To go deeper in your journey, I’ve included a complimentary life coaching workbook (7 pages) designed to empower you to live your best life using incremental approaches and deliberate intention setting.

Our teachers are not just educators. They are the architects of our future, guiding a generation through the complexities of a post-COVID world. Their work is not just important—it’s essential. They are shaping the minds and hearts of tomorrow’s leaders, thinkers, and innovators. This is not easy work, but it is the right work, and it is a calling worthy of our deepest gratitude and support.

Please join me in expressing our gratitude and commitment to the educators who are shaping our future. Let’s ensure they know that their efforts are not only noticed but deeply appreciated.

#SoarAboveAchieveBeyond