By Christy S. Martin, Ed.D
A recent social media post stopped me in my tracks. A teacher poured out her exhaustion: long days, constant demands, juggling in-person and online learning, enforcing safety protocols, and trying to meet expectations from every direction. She described days that begin before 7:00 a.m. and only end when she finally powers down her computer and silences her phone—yet even then the worry and mental load persist. Her experience mirrors that of countless educators facing intense emotional strain during this unprecedented school year.
I live in a district that uses a modified year-round calendar and starts school in late July. Even here, after only a few weeks, dedicated teachers are overwhelmed by constant change: concerns for their students’ well-being, navigating hybrid or fully remote instruction, enforcing distancing and mask rules, and fielding criticism from all sides.
Common stressors teachers face now include:
Students have fallen behind academically. Many parents did their best during extended school closures, but without formal routines and instructional rigor, students slipped from grade-level expectations. Returning to class after months away means teachers must assess and reteach critical skills.
Social and emotional needs are intensified. Children who have been isolated since spring are desperate for peer interaction, hugs, and play. Enforcing distance and mask protocols is emotionally taxing for both students and adults and makes relationship-building harder.
The physical classroom looks and functions differently. Routines for hallways, playgrounds, bathrooms, and cleaning are new and complex. Masks obscure facial expression—the primary way teachers read learning, confusion, joy, or illness—making instruction and support more challenging.
Expectations for academic recovery are high. Teachers are asked to accelerate learning and revisit content students missed during the longest period of school closure in modern times. Balancing remediation with current-grade learning is a constant juggling act.
Quarantines disrupt continuity. When students or staff must quarantine, classrooms shift between in-person and remote formats. Teachers maintain parallel presences—teaching live while simultaneously supporting learners online.
Professional responsibility and personal worry collide. Teachers worry that they aren’t meeting student needs, feel pressure from administrators and policymakers, and also face concerns for their own families’ health and well-being.
Decision-makers are often distant from daily classroom realities. Local, state, and national directives can feel out of touch with on-the-ground challenges, adding to teachers’ stress and sense of being unsupported.
Technology demands have grown rapidly. Delivering quality instruction now frequently requires new digital skills. Teachers are troubleshooting devices, guiding families through platforms, and simultaneously maintaining classroom management and engagement.
I have deep respect for educators. They enter this work because they care about children and want to make a difference. From my perspective, I offer practical, empathetic advice to help protect teacher well-being and sustain student supports during these difficult times.
- Take frequent outdoor breaks with your students. Fresh air and movement clear minds and reduce stress for both you and the children.
- Build moments of fun and normalcy into the day. Beyond academics, students need caring adults and predictable routines—they will remember your support and presence even more than specific lessons.
- Set firm boundaries with technology. When your workday ends, power down devices and reclaim personal time. Rest is essential to sustain your energy and effectiveness.
- Pursue targeted professional development that addresses current needs—whether in blended instruction, classroom management under safety protocols, or social-emotional learning. Learning new strategies can boost morale and confidence.
- Talk with colleagues about what’s weighing on you. Peer support and shared problem-solving reduce isolation and help preserve a sense of humor and perspective.
- Make your experiences and concerns known to decision-makers. Document challenges, communicate with administrators and unions, and advocate for realistic expectations and supports.
- Recognize that, for many students, this may be a year of recovery rather than peak academic gains. That reality does not reflect your commitment—it reflects extraordinary circumstances. You are on the front lines helping students return to stable learning.
- Prioritize your health. Attend to your physical and mental needs so you can remain present for the students who depend on you.
Teachers and school staff are modern-day heroes. The respect for this profession has deepened as communities recognize the vital role educators play in children’s lives. Take a breath, hold your head high, and know that your dedication matters—you are making a difference.
About the author
Dr. Christy Martin recently retired after more than 30 years in K–12 and higher education and an additional six years in social services supporting foster youth. She views advocacy for at-risk children as a calling. Since retiring in February, she has returned to writing, focusing on child welfare and school-related issues. She resides in East Tennessee, about 15 miles from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
This article was originally published by The Learning Counsel, a research institute and news media hub focused on providing context for the shift in education to digital curriculum.