My busy, multi-tasking job seems to require that I always be "on". During the average school day, I am constantly demonstrating, answering questions, planning for not only this class but for the one coming next, and lecturing.My TA needs written directions for her duties, too. While these activities are happening, I'm watching behaviors as well as the clock. Each class of 30 students (most classes have up to 40!) have 50 minutes (including clean-up time) to engage in the activity of the day. During my prep period, grading, planning,organizing, and errands need my attention. At lunch time, students expect time to work on current projects or make-ups. By the end of my work day, I have worked 8 hours nonstop. The teenage activity and noise levels add to the frenzy of each day.The stress of so much work for such a long
period of time leaves me exhausted and craving the quiet and comfort of home.
Over time, we teachers can become over-stressed and less effective.
My solution to this situation is all about self-preservation. When I arrive at school each day, I make a to-do list and establish an order of priorities. I start prep time with a cup of tea and a scone. This is something I look forward to because it produces a changing of gears, a moment of relaxation. I now open my room at lunch time for only 2 or 3 days per week. I eat lunch first and then
tend to needed tasks.
I believe that I am responsible for the sanity of my work day. Breaks and lunch
times need to be times of nourishing the body and feeding the soul. I can choose to exhaust myself and deplete my energy and effectiveness or I can
pace myself, by taking the true break that I need and deserve.
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Joyce Dalton of CA 3:02PM February 26, 2011