Teaching is a noble and rewarding profession, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Oftentimes, wonderful teachers face common challenges that can lead to teacher burnout and, ultimately, stressful learning environments for all. As a leader in social and emotional learning (SEL), Harmony Academy powered by National University is dedicated to providing resources that improve educators’ and students’ lives through the classroom and beyond.

In this blog post, we will:

• Define SEL.
• Learn about Harmony Academy and how it can help improve teacher well-being and the Whole Educator.
• Explore the signs of teacher burnout.
• Discuss proactive steps teachers can take to prioritize their well-being.

What is SEL?

SEL, or social and emotional learning, is a teaching and learning process to develop and acquire the skills, knowledge, and beliefs (e.g., initiative-taking, communication, collaboration) all individuals need to be successful in school, work, and life.

What is Educator SEL?

Educator SEL is when educators engage in an intentional process to continue to nurture social and emotional competencies and capacities. Specifically, Educator SEL includes two core components: (1) competencies — processes educators take to nurture their social and emotional competencies (e.g., understanding and managing emotions, forming meaningful relationships, making helpful choices), and (2) capacities — the ability to translate knowledge of SEL to support student social and emotional development.

What does teacher well-being encompass?

Teacher well-being encompasses physical health, social, emotional, and psychological dimensions. It connects educators’ sense of purpose and fulfillment from their profession, ability to manage stress, and overall job satisfaction.

Why is Educator SEL so important?

“Through the Collaborating Districts Initiative (CDI), CASEL has learned that schools are more effective at teaching and reinforcing SEL for students when they also cultivate SEL competencies in adults.” (casel.org)

To promote educator well-being and avoid teacher burnout, it is critical to look out for the signs of teacher burnout, which can include the following:

1. Emotional Exhaustion: One of the primary signs of teacher burnout is emotional exhaustion. A clear indicator is when teachers feel drained, emotionally detached, or overwhelmed by their responsibilities.
2. Decreased Job Satisfaction: A sudden decline in job satisfaction can signify burnout. Teachers who once loved their profession may begin feeling disillusioned, disinterested, or even resentful toward their jobs.
3. Physical Symptoms: Burnout can manifest as physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. It could be a sign of burnout if a teacher is constantly fatigued, experiencing regular headaches, or having trouble sleeping.
4. Reduced Professional Efficacy: Another common sign of burnout is decreased professional efficacy. Teachers may start to doubt their abilities, question the impact they’re making on their students, and feel a sense of hopelessness about their work.
5. Isolation and Withdrawal: Burnout can lead to a sense of isolation and withdrawal from colleagues and friends. If teachers avoid social interactions or feel disconnected from their support network, it’s a sign that something may be wrong.

How can school leaders promote educator well-being and prevent burnout?

1. Check in With Your Teachers. Are leaders supporting their teachers to set boundaries, practice mindfulness, and engage in fun activities outside of work? How do they encourage the work-life balance for their staff?
2. Offer Resources and Community. Be ready to share the resources the district offers for colleagues facing life challenges with access to professional help if needed. Consider offering fun staff activities that can instill a sense of community as well.
3. Refresh Professional Development Opportunities. Teachers can reignite their passion for teaching by pursuing professional development opportunities. Harmony Academy proudly offers no-cost online SEL professional learning courses, SEL webinars, and more at Harmony Professional Learning.

How can Harmony Curriculum help prevent teacher burnout?

Harmony Academy offers a free relationship-driven curriculum through SEL lesson plans, games designed to improve social and emotional skills, and fun ways for students to engage.

1. Provide Ready-to-use Materials for Your Staff to Readily Access.
2. Plan for the Integration of Harmony’s Everyday Practices, such as Buddy Up and Quick Connection Cards, and review the units specifically curated for grades Pre-K – 6th, including Being My Best Self and Communicating with Each Other, all encouraging collaboration, teamwork, and empathy building.

Creating a strong sense of community is the first step to supporting teacher well-being campus-wide. Educators everywhere can take proactive steps to prioritize their well-being, ensuring they can continue inspiring and educating the next generation without compromising their health and happiness. Leaders can support their staff on their journeys to maintain their well-being and will continue to support the Harmony-filled school community we all know and love.