The start of the 2020-21 school year has been unusual, to say the least. It’s essential to communicate the updates and changes to ensure parents are informed and that new processes run as smoothly as possible. But it’s also important to celebrate the successes.
Great things are happening in schools! Regardless of the mode, kids are learning, engaging and growing. Getting caught up in the negativity and talking about what has been lost is easy. Yet schools are rising to the occasion and creating significant opportunities for students. Here are a few tips to help you celebrate the successes and build a more positive brand for your school!
Schedule Photo Time – Many districts have already or are in the process of moving to a hybrid approach. While you have students in your classrooms, use happy photos. The images may look a little different, but we all love seeing kids with teachers. Schedule a few minutes of your day every day to visit classrooms and post these happy moments on your social media feeds and eNewsletters.
Staff Accomplishments – Staff members, are stretching themselves to the limits and beyond right now. Recognize staff members who tried something new, celebrate the ones that tried and failed, and acknowledge the extra work that is being put in right now. Simply saying the words “thank you” is often enough to put a little extra step in the feet and hearts that are dragging.
Handwritten Notes – Especially in this era of digital everything, the idea of a hand written note of thanks or appreciation gets a big reaction. Teachers who are working online can send a note of introduction to students at their homes. Principals putting a note in teacher mailboxes or sending a note to parents acknowledging a moment of kindness from their student goes a long way to make us all feel better.
As a leader, you have a lot to do right now, and there is more work to be completed than can ever be done. Yet taking 10 minutes of your day to focus on the positives and celebrate the successes can get your mind in the right attitude to take on the other challenges in your day.