In today’s school climate of high-stakes testing, large class sizes and rigid evaluation processes, it’s no surprise that many teachers are in need of motivation. Administrators who are committed to retaining highly qualified teachers are well aware of this fact. They understand the importance of motivating teachers who will, in turn, motivate their students.
Administrators must be effective leaders while also being thoughtful in their partnerships with teachers. One effective way administrators can up their leadership game is with a higher degree. The online Master of Science in Education (MSEd.) in Educational Leadership program from Northwest Missouri State University prepares great school leaders to motivate teachers to support the school vision.
How Teachers Feel
Teachers want to feel respected, valued, empowered and supported. Teachers who feel this way are willing to go the extra mile for the school and for their students. The following are examples of ways administrators can motivate teachers:
One of the most frequently mentioned motivators for teachers is being respected by the administration. One area in which this is critical is when parents circumvent the teacher and go directly to the principal with their concern. A principal who respects all stakeholders will listen courteously to the parents with an open mind. Before making a decision or forming an opinion, however, the wise principal will bring in the teacher to balance the conversation before moving forward.
Another way in which administrators motivate teachers is by actively valuing their contributions to the conversation when decisions are made about school and district policies. If teachers feel their voices are not heard, they will stop contributing.
When teachers feel empowered to make decisions in their classrooms about issues like instruction and classroom management, they are motivated to make the best choices for their students. When they can use their professional wisdom and experience, teachers will naturally focus on the unique qualities of their students and do what is in their best educational interest.
Administrators who support their teachers with adequate supplies and equipment motivate teachers to make good use of these materials. Many teachers are expected to meet anticipated success rates when they are not given appropriate curriculum materials and must fend for themselves, often at their own expense.
In addition to material support, teachers feel supported when principals play an active role in student behavior issues. When administrators believe in their teachers, students see consistency and mutual respect. The end result of this unified effort is trust.
How Teachers Are Professionally Encouraged
A word of praise is always welcome to those who spend their days in the company of children with different needs and abilities. However, to a teacher, encouragement also means opportunities to improve professionally. Meaningful professional development offered free of charge, or with reimbursement benefits, is one of the most effective ways for teachers to improve their craft. Generic in-service presentations often serve no purpose and, in fact, can leave teachers feeling frustrated by the waste of time. However, self-selected presentations on issues most important to teachers motivate them to use what they learn to the benefit of their schools and students.
How Teachers Are Compensated
EdWeek reports that teachers earn less than similarly educated professionals in other fields. Although teachers report that they are intrinsically motivated by the satisfaction of teaching, they do refer to higher pay as a motivator. In fact, the concept of fair and equitable pay as a teacher-motivator results in an interesting paradox.
Founder of SpanishVIP, Connor Ondriska, writes that, “Competitive salaries for teachers can lead to improved educational outcomes. When teachers feel financially supported, they are more likely to stay in the profession and bring their best to the classroom. Higher pay can also attract highly qualified individuals to pursue teaching as a career, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the education system.”
Why Is It Important That Teachers Are Motivated?
When teachers see their work is relevant and meaningful, feel they have ownership and find value in the work, they are more likely to be motivated. According to Education Advanced, a website devoted to creating outstanding schools, “Teachers who are motivated are less likely to consider their job a burden and are willing to put forth extra effort to help students achieve success. Therefore, to foster a better learning environment, make it a priority to go above and beyond for your teaching staff. After all, they’re the ones in the trenches making a direct impact on students’ lives.” Motivating teachers leads to motivated and more successful students.
Earning a Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership from Northwest Missouri State University provides the skills, tools and instruction to motivate teachers and “create quality educational experiences for all students by enlisting stakeholders in the development and implementation of a vision promoting a positive school culture.”
Learn more about Northwest Missouri State University’s online MSEd. in Educational Leadership program.
