How I Set Boundaries as a Teacher

I have not always been the best at setting boundaries - especially in relation to my profession. Teaching is one of those things that is all-encompassing, and especially since the implementation of online and hybrid schooling when students have 24/7 access (I literally get emails from students after midnight!), it has been difficult to maintain boundaries. 

As difficult as this process has been, and as long as it has taken me (years!), it has been so worth it. They should teach a class on setting boundaries in Education courses! 

Here are some of the things I’ve started implementing over the years that have helped me reach a point where I feel I have a better balance of work and life. 

I Have Claimed Back My Phone

Since they don’t pay for it, school email is off my phone, and I don’t give out my real phone number. Setting up a Google number was seriously the best thing ever. I also mute my group texts for school-related things. Sounds awful, but it is the most freeing thing ever!

I Set Office Hours

I have clearly posted office hours during which students and parents are free to call me or meet with me. If no one meets with me or calls me, I take this time to answer all emails. It was a rocky start, but once I was firm (but kind!) about the hours I was available, it became respected.

Clearly post and explain the hours you are available to answer phone calls and emails. 

I Put Work Away

I started a 5 pm rule that basically states that at 5 pm, work gets put away, and doesn’t get touched until the next day. I go so far as to not even talk about work and to quit applications, such as Teams so I don’t see notifications. I get up early enough to check for last-minute messages, and if anything is urgent, I’m notified by a different means. 

And back to not even talking about work after hours: best.decision.ever.

I Am Firm

If you are trying to set boundaries, making exceptions is actually going to harm the process. Be clear and direct with your boundaries. I never heard of anyone who was seriously injured because their teacher didn’t answer the phone at 8 pm. It took practice and grit until I could ignore emails, phone calls, Teams messages, and texts at crazy hours with zero guilt. 

I Use my Prep Periods

I have not always had such long and numerous planning periods, but even when I only had one short one, I made sure to utilize it. I found this time was most effective if I designated a task for each day. For example, Monday was for making all of the copies for the entire week, and Thursday was for finishing off my lesson plans for the following week. 

Turning off my light and closing my door ensured I could work disturbance-free. 

I Take Time for Myself

I make sure to do something for myself each day. Teaching is extremely hard in so many ways, but it can’t be done if you do not take care of yourself and find time to de-stress. For me, I have an array of hobbies and interests I choose from. 

My advice would be to find something you love doing. Take a walk/run/hike. Breathe in the warm air while sitting on your deck sipping your favorite beverage. Read a book. Do some Pilates. Administer a face mask and take a bath. Do a hobby. Wind down and take time for yourself so that you can be there for your students. 

I Am Present Where it Matters

For me, having such a great support system at home has been amazing. I was reminded that if something were to happen to me today, my job would be posted tomorrow, but I am not replaceable with my family. They need me to be present with them above all else.