The Tired Teacher Conundrum
Do you remember that one class where all you did was worksheets and packets? Maybe at the beginning of the year, your teacher gave some insightful lectures, but since then, all you do is pick up your packet at the door when you walk in.
What do you remember learning from this class? Not much.
This is not to say that packets and worksheets don’t have a place in the classroom—they do—but teachers need to engage their students as best they can, and sometimes, worksheets just won’t cut it.
Why do I bring this up? Many times, the reason that a teacher might make their classes only do worksheets and packets is because they’re so incredibly worn out.
Teacher burnout is a real issue that plagues schools of all types.
Those affected most by teacher burnout are not teachers-it’s students.
Students who have burnt-out teachers receive lower-quality education. It’s nearly impossible to do a job well when you’re exhausted. Imagine a school full of tired teachers just giving their students busy work so they, the teachers, can make it through the day. That’s hardly a school I want to send my students to.
Burnt-out teachers are also more likely to jump from school to school, thinking that a change of scenery will give them the energy they need to be great teachers. But as soon as early November rolls around, they’re giving out the same worksheets they were at the previous school.
Tired teachers leave the profession more. Year after year, just getting tired and more tired, why would you stay? Education can’t afford teachers leaving.
Is there a solution to this?
Something I’ve harped on many times—make the school day shorter.
Or even consider changing to a four-day week.
Changes could be made to the school year schedule, allowing for more breaks and work days. Districts and states could opt for a trimester-style schedule, giving students and teachers more breaks throughout the year.
It’s crucial that teachers are in top shape, so it's best for everyone to give them as much rest as possible.