Are principals demotivating teachers?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

There is a concern among educators that some principals continue to engage in behaviour that has led to demotivation, lower trust and an increase in teacher’s resignation and ‘ quiet quitting.” It is sad to say, but too often principals have undermined teachers and have become direct aggressors or negative emotional manipulators which have affected teachers trust, leading to their commitment and enthusiasm for teaching.

Moreover, many principals have criticised teachers undermining their confidence and authority in front of students and other teachers which have destroyed the teacher’s professional dignity, increase stress level, anxiety and a feeling of disrespect thus creating a toxic work environment.

Additionally, some principals foster a culture of fear and distrust among teachers by having excessive monitoring, unfair and harsh performance review of teachers they dislike. Such behaviour have affected teachers mentally and have driven them in depression, demotivation and resignation.

There are those principals who do not support teachers when there is an issue with the Ministry of Education or school, leaving the teachers to stand on their own which sometime can be very distressing. This is done especially if the principal and teachers do not have a good relationship.

The way teachers are treating by principals will determine their work attitude whether they stay or leave .Therefore, principals are to make sure teachers are happy and peaceful at school as this will increase teachers motivation and trust and prevent early resignations.

ANDREA O’CONNOR