The landscape of education feels like it’s shifting beneath your feet. Headlines are filled with debates over dismantling the Department of Education, while changes in immigration enforcement spark fear in classrooms. Students are asking questions you don’t have answers to. Families are looking to you for reassurance. 

While so much of it may be out of your control, what is in your control is how you support your students and yourself through it all. 

How You Can Support Your Students 

Even in uncertain times, you play a key role in creating a sense of stability. Here’s how you can help: 

• Make Schools Feel Safe: Reassure your students that your classroom is a place where they belong, no matter their background. Visibility matters and having multilingual resources, inclusive posters, or simply addressing concerns openly can go a long way. 

• Provide Accurate Information: Uncertainty can create fear, especially when students and families don’t have the right information. Partner with trusted organizations to share clear, up-to-date resources and information with students and families. 

• Recognize Signs of Stress: Many students won’t verbalize their fears. Keep an eye out for changes in behavior, increased absences, or signs of anxiety. Connect them with school counselors or other support services when needed. 

• Advocate for Policies That Protect Students: Whether it’s reaching out to lawmakers, signing petitions, or ensuring district policies prioritize student safety, your actions, no matter how small, can have a big impact. 

Preventing Your Own Burnout 

The work you do is emotionally demanding, and it’s easy to put everyone else’s needs ahead of your own. But you can’t pour from an empty cup. Supporting students is only sustainable if you’re also taking care of yourself. Here are a few ways to do that: 

• Set Boundaries: Teaching can feel like a 24/7 job, but burnout happens when there’s no separation between work and personal time. Give yourself permission to step away from work when the day ends. Avoid checking emails late at night and carve out time for yourself and your loved ones. 

• Lean on Your Support System: Whether it’s coworkers, friends, or professional groups, having people to talk to makes a difference. 

• Take Care of Your Body & Mind: Self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether it’s a quick walk, reading, journaling, or simply getting enough sleep—find what helps you recharge and prioritize it. 

• Stay Informed (In a Way That Works for You): Staying informed on policy changes is important, but that doesn’t mean you need to consume every update. Find a few trusted sources and check in at a pace that feels manageable. 

Moving Forward 

These are challenging times, but your impact is undeniable. By focusing on what’s within your control—supporting students, creating safe spaces, and taking care of yourself—you can continue making a meaningful difference. Uncertainty may be part of the landscape, but together, we can navigate it with resilience and care.