Encouraging Students

One of my mantras is “I can’t give what I don’t have.”

Some of my colleagues and I were feeling a bit depressed and overwhelmed this January, and we could see that it was a bit viral in our building.

A lot of us are trying to be helpful and giving when we’re running on empty.

And then, my friend Claire pointed out that some of our students feel this level of stress too, which if I’m being honest, I forget.

I forget that our students are navigating a world of demands on this bridge to adulthood, and it was a good reminder that they also can’t give what they don’t have.

So, we decided to give them little notes of encouragement going into Finals Week this week- something small, fun, and ultimately a message that says: “I see you.”

If I had time, I would have tried to write students’ names on them and a highlight from the semester with each. But it’s the thought that counts, right?

If you are a teacher and want to copy the idea, here’s a link to the Google Doc: Encourage Mint Notes

In my hope to change hard hearts, it’s a small way to spread joy.