Approximately two months into the school year, new teachers are settled with their classes, curriculum, and the overall understanding of the school mission, vision, and environment. Now is an important time to check-in and gauge their overall feelings and satisfaction both professionally and personally.

Here are a few different options to consider when figuring out the best way to check-in and follow-up with teachers at this stage of the school year:

1. Host a time at school where you meet with all new teachers in your division after school and have a group discussion/dialogue on how things are going (make sure to supply some snacks and/or coffee).
2. Organize a more informal gathering at your home (or an outside restaurant) for lunch or dinner. Teachers will probably appreciate this gesture and it will most likely help to build positive relationships.
3. If available, provide a fun team building outing where new teachers are able to build on their individual relationships with the other new teachers. Nothing brings a group better together than a fun outing (with food!).

Here is a excellent resource to share with your staff about the “Expat Upside-Down Hump.” Our principal Jeannie Sung shares it every year as it is important to understand that many teachers (especially new teachers) will go through this “hump” as they are adapting and adjusting to a new school and country. It is important, as an administrator, to recognize this and to provide support and encouragement to new teachers.

I know that new teachers appreciate the support! Thank you for everything that you do in providing the tools and support that new teachers need to be more effective in the classroom and in life!