World Teachers’ Day is celebrated each year on 25 October to show appreciation for the teachers who play such a pivotal role in the lives of our children. With the profession facing increasing pressure from budget cuts, burgeoning workloads, and growing instances of abuse and harassment from students and parents, appreciation and respect could go a long way.
Available for comment:
Dr Fiona Longmuir, Senior Lecturer at Monash University School of Education, Culture and Society and Co-Leader of our Education Workforce for the Future Research Lab
Contact: +61 417 547 316 or fiona.longmuir@monash.edu
- Educational leadership
- School and community relations
- Teacher working conditions
- Student engagement
Comments attributable to Dr Longmuir:
“It’s no secret that teaching is a tough gig – now more than ever we’re seeing many good people leave the profession in droves because they are overworked, underappreciated, and at a loss for how to fix it. Those that remain are working hard to continue supporting their students to achieve the best educational and wellbeing outcomes, often playing a pivotal role in their early lives and inspiring their futures.
“This World Teachers’ Day, we want to encourage families to appreciate the teachers who are helping and supporting their young people. Working together with teachers, being open and ready to listen and communicate respectfully will foster positive relationships that ultimately provide the best possible environment for the students to thrive.
“We want to tell young people thinking about a career in teaching that it is a great profession and that in the coming years they will have a great opportunity to contribute to the change that is needed for our schools and the profession. We want to acknowledge the teachers in the workforce, so that they know that they are appreciated for the work they are doing, which is crucial in shaping the next generation. Most importantly, we want to make sure they know they are not alone. Research going on across Monash, in collaboration with schools and teachers, is identifying approaches and policy solutions to address the issues plaguing our schools, and we will continue to work with you to ensure you can do your job safely and happily.”
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