Question: What Can a Principal Do to Help You Feel Seen and Heard?

Great school leaders know a thriving school starts with supported teachers. But what specific actions can a principal take to help educators feel seen, heard, and valued? Maybe it’s to regularly check in, advocate for teacher needs, or create space for authentic conversations. Perhaps it’s a simple “thank you” or a genuine effort to recognize the challenges that staff face.

Tell us: What has a principal done to make you feel truly supported? Or, if you’re a school leader, what strategies have helped you foster strong relationships with your staff? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Whatever your answer, your insights will help those working to improve their schools' cultures and communities. Let’s create a space where educators can share what they need to keep doing the critical work they do with students.

More on How Principals Can Support Teachers

If you're looking for additional support and inspiration, check out our Administration & Leadership page, as well as our pages on School Culture and Teacher Wellness. They are updated regularly with articles and videos on this topic.

You might also find these resources helpful:

• How Principals Can Set Up a Sustainable, Equitable Model of Leadership
• Building a Culture that Respects Teachers and Reduces Stress
• Strategies for Supporting Teacher Growth
• Leaders Must Address Teacher Well-Being With Action, Not Just Self-Care Talk
• Defending a Teacher’s Right to Disconnect
• Why Schools Should Stop Adding and Adopt a ‘Subtraction Mindset’

At Edutopia, we're always looking for educators to share their strategies. If you have ideas that go beyond what can be shared in the comments, please be sure to visit our Write for Us page.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts about how principals can help teachers feel seen and heard. If you have questions of your own, feel free to post them here—our community facilitators are ready to help!