Career Confidential

Teacher feels threatened by colleague’s public recognition
July 3, 2018
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Principal upset by staff response to school climate surveys
A climate survey is generally given once a year. It shouldn’t be your primary means of gathering feedback. Saying you have an open-door policy isn't enough.
June 26, 2018
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Burnout prevention: 3 ways teachers can recharge their batteries
Everyone can get burned out. Recharge your batteries this summer and strategize ways to avoid feeling so stressed next year.
June 19, 2018
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What can principal do about aggressive parents who attack him, his staff?
Unfortunately, some people think they need to be jerks to be heard. This is exhausting and demoralizing. If their end goal is to feel heard, then look for ways to give them that without being dragged into a power struggle.
June 12, 2018
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Teacher annoyed that academics lose out to sports
Approach the issue as a matter of balance. Are school policies aligned with students’ needs and well-being? How do all the pieces — from exam schedules to sports practices — fit together?
June 5, 2018
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Principal’s attention to girls’ dress code disturbs teacher
To change the dress code policy, first locate and petition the policy makers and present a solid argument beyond the fact that it feels creepy and gratuitous.
May 29, 2018
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Teachers and social media: A cautionary tale about the risks
Once you post an opinion on social media, you give up control and risk your reputation. There’s always a chance someone will gain access to your feed.
May 22, 2018
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Does teacher need to find new job after romance with colleague ends badly?
Your judgment may be impaired right now, so resist the temptation to do anything rash or retaliatory. Your first step? Take care of yourself.
May 15, 2018
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Should principal fire new, subpar teacher?
Keeping a struggling teacher another year may not be ethically problematic as long as you provide extra supports and believe he can meet expectations.
May 8, 2018
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How can betrayed administrator learn to trust again?
Assistant principal can get past the betrayal by approaching everyone at work in a way that's neither paranoid nor overly trusting.
May 1, 2018
Columns & Blogs
HAVE YOU HEARD ?
Newsworthy items from the field
How states are using child care funds
February 14, 2019
Parkland coverage, 12 months later
February 13, 2019
Why won’t parents take teacher’s concerns about their child seriously?
February 12, 2019
Lessons from school closures
February 11, 2019
Not-so-cybersecure schools
February 8, 2019
See More