2014: New Year's Resolutions for Teachers

When the New Year rolls around, some of us resolve to finally shed those extra pounds, to travel somewhere new, or to save more money. For teachers, though, New Year's resolutions take on a whole new meaning. Resolutions for teachers often involve the well-being of their students as much as their own, because good teachers are always trying to better themselves and help their students get the most of the year spent together. That being said, it can be difficult to self-critique and decide just what you need to improve upon. If you're an instructor, here are a few resolutions you consider attempting to keep in 2014.

Find Ways to Help Students Enjoy Learning

If a student doesn't enjoy the subject matter you're teaching, it's easy for you to become the "bad guy" in their eyes. It's important to find ways of teaching a subject that will make them excited to come to class – though, admittedly, in the midst of a busy school year, switching up a lesson plan based on student feedback isn't at the top of everyone's to-do list. Whether it's picking a fun-to-read book that shows your students that learning is fun or applying algebra to everyday circumstances, it's all about responding to student feedback and getting creative.

Use New Technology

There are fresh and exciting ways to introduce technology into the classroom that are becoming available every day. Take some time out of your day to educate yourself about what's available and see if it could be used in your classroom. Make it a big project, like starting a petition to get performance learning systems for your district, or do something small, like letting students make a movie on a smartphone app as a project. Today's students and technology go hand-in-hand, and introducing new technology will lower them into their element, making learning enjoyable and easy to absorb.

Start Fresh

When students come back from their winter break, make it a point to have cleaned up the classroom and redecorated the billboards. Start a new journal for yourself so you remain organized and maybe incorporate a new rewards system for the students. The second half of the year always goes by quickly – why not make it fun, too?

Make Time for Yourself

Homework for students is homework for teachers. Are you making too much take-home work for yourself by grading papers and drawing up lesson plans? Make the most of your time in the school building, whether it's during class time or prep periods, to plan for the next day. Not getting enough "you" time will wear on you, causing you to get upset with your students more easily. Having enough time for yourself will help you to enjoy time spent with your students and let you look forward to the end of the day!