Students need joyful teachers

English director warns educators not to lose their motivation

David Wells, a director of religious education, spoke at the Vancouver
Convention Centre. He said that laughter in the staff room is a sign
of a successful school. (Agnieszka Krawczynski / The B.C. Catholic)

According to David Wells, Catholic school teachers are in danger of forgetting their purpose. He encouraged educators during his keynote address at the Catholic Educators' Conference Feb. 15.

"The gods of performance indicators so take over our lives that one day we need to be gathered like this to remember our purpose," said Wells. "Don't turn teaching into an exercise about results."

The energetic speaker gave some tips for going to work enthusiastic and coming home happy. Those included looking at the bigger picture, being grateful, welcoming change, and spending time in reflection. "More than anything else," he said, "we need you to love children and enjoy your job."

Read the full story at The B.C. Catholic website.