Teacher Growth

Understanding Teacher Growth

The unique perspectives brought by a diversity of experience can provide a rich source of creativity, innovation, and knowledge in a school. In my own educational journey, I've discovered that an effective leader will draw out the strengths of teachers from various stages in their professional career while maintaining a sense of respect and rapport among all groups of educators. While not ironclad, as exceptions always exist, I have found there to be four main categories of teachers based on their experience: the Green Teacher, the Blooming Teacher, the Fruitful Teacher, and the Golden Teacher.

The Green Teacher

Green Teachers (0-5 years of experience) are like the first sprouts of Spring. They are full of limitless potential and are filled with the raw energy necessary to grow into a thriving educator and life-long learner. Because of this, they often have interesting and novel ideas brought on by a fresh outlook on what school can be, not on what it already is. However, often times they are the most fragile when conditions aren't conducive to growth and are at risk of withering away if not nurtured and shielded from the elements.

The Blooming Teacher

Blooming Teachers (6-13 years) have weathered early storms and have grown roots that provide support and fuel continued growth. Their path, their purpose, often will come into focus during this time and the vibrancy of their teaching is on full display. They bring with them the fresh experiences of their early years while also having insights into how they wish to strengthen education in the future. Blooming teachers, though, risk losing the fullness of their potential if they developed in unsupportive environments or if the diseases of apathy, resentment, and defeatism start to take hold. Leaders should bring those teachers into the light, giving them nourishment and tending to weaknesses so that they may bloom brighter and longer.

The Fruitful Teacher

Fruitful Teachers (14-23 years) experience the great joy of watching the fruits of their labor ripen. They often take on roles of leadership within the building and in the community, using their own fruits to plant seeds of growth in others. Though their own blooms have gone, they remember the beauty of what they have done and wish to see others bloom in their own way. However, fruit not harvested rots on the vine and attracts pests of negativity, bitterness, and regret. Care must be taken by leaders to value the fruits these teachers have cultivated and celebrate what they have accomplished, while challenging them to use their fruits for the benefit of others.

The Golden Teacher

Golden Teachers (24+ years) bring a different kind of radiance to a school. Their experience towers over the sprouts of Green Teachers; their blooms are a distant memory, and they've shared their fruits. Yet in their own right they carry the wisdom and insights that can only be grasped after experiencing a full career. Leaders must continue to encourage these teachers, to not let their leaves fall too quickly, and to value the contributions they have made. Just like the environment plays a role in the brilliance of Autumn leaves, so too does a school environment affect Golden Teachers.

Conclusion

Thankfully, teachers aren't plants and no matter the level of experience, any teacher may experience a period of bloom, or be fruitful, or have great wisdom. Likewise, regardless of experience, teachers who aren't supported, who aren't challenged, will struggle to thrive. An effective teacher will recognize the individuality of each teacher, encouraging growth, and welcoming feedback.