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Your well-being

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Managing transitions

As another school year ends, students and educators face transitions. And while summer may be eagerly anticipated, transitions are not easy for everyone. But there are ways to help ensure a healthy transition to summer.

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Creating schools that welcome LGBTQ kids

There is a lot that educators can do to make the school environment more welcoming for these students — and a more inclusive environment for all students and staff.

Meditation and mindfulness can help relieve stress

Teaching can be stressful, and meditation and mindfulness can help alleviate the stress and bring a greater sense of calm and purpose to your life at work and at home. Research has shown that meditation can reduce burnout, improve self-confidence, empathy and the ability to concentrate — and even boost health and job performance.

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Stop teacher burnout

Teaching can be an extraordinary career and a calling. But it can be very stressful. If you feel as though there are not enough hours in the day and your workload extends into nights, weekends and holidays, you are heading for burnout.

Multicultural Kids Diversity cartoon

Tips for developing cultural competence

To do their jobs well, educators need to understand their students’ lives and cultures. This involves listening and asking questions with humility. Being open-minded and attentive to individual students and their circumstances are key to cultural competency.

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360-degree wellness

School professionals have challenging jobs. Our work includes taking care of the needs of students, colleagues and community members, as well as taking care of ourselves and our families. A 360-degree approach to wellness can help.

Pharmaceuticals

Tackling addiction

You can access detox, rehab and intensive outpatient services through your city health insurance if you have a problem with alcohol or substance use.

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Resolving conflicts

Disagreements can give birth to good ideas. Here are some ways to resolve conflicts in the school community.

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Mental health support groups

Belonging to a support group can significantly ease your burden. when confronting personal or professional challenges. The UFT offers a number of support groups.

Stopwatch

Managing your time

It’s the beginning of a new school year and a perfect opportunity to organize for maximum effectiveness. Time is your greatest resource and, as a school professional, it is essential for achieving your goals. Check out these tips for making the most effective use of your time this year.