The Teachers' Dilemma; Navigating the End-of-Year School Calendar

In Uganda, the academic year for primary and secondary schools is about to come to an end in just five days. The last three weeks leading up to the end of the year are usually quite busy, with a variety of academic and social events vying for a spot on the school calendar.

Some teachers often feel overburdened with the amount of effort they put into planning and executing various events. It can be challenging for teachers to decide whether to attend these events given their diverse nature and structure. In this newsletter, I will explore and share my personal opinion on each of them.

Kindergarten graduation party

The graduation ceremony for kindergarten students is one of the few academic achievements that only parents and teachers care about, but it is a very important event for young graduates. As a kindergarten teacher, it is essential that you attend this ceremony to celebrate the accomplishments of your learners. By attending, you can help boost their self-esteem, promote a love of learning, and instill a sense of pride in their achievements. The graduation ceremony also provides an opportunity for families to come together and support the children, building trust between teachers and families and creating a positive learning environment for the students.

S.6 Graduation party

It is my assumption that the school and teachers have been preparing students for this day all year long. This day is not only important to acknowledge students' educational achievements, but also to serve as an initiation ceremony for students transitioning to “adulting”. It is highly recommended that you attend to see your students off as they begin a new chapter in their lives.

School advertising campaigns e.g. brass band community convoy

Brass band parades are a great way for teachers to promote their school's positive image within the community, contributing to a sense of pride and unity. If your school is planning to have one of these parades before the year ends, it is highly recommended that you participate in the procession. Your absence from such an important school event may reflect negatively on you as a teacher. By showing up, holding the school banner, and leading by example, you can inspire your students and demonstrate your commitment to the school.

End-of-year appraisal review meeting

It is important to note that in this situation, you do not have the luxury of choice, especially if you value professional growth. This is your opportunity to showcase your achievements. Proper preparation is vital, and ensure that you have documented all your accomplishments over the months. Share them respectfully without exaggerating. Maintain a positive attitude while taking in areas where you can improve based on feedback from your supervisor. It is also important to communicate your needs and how your supervisor can support you to enhance your performance in the next academic year.

End-of-year staff meetings

The structure of end-of-year staff meetings varies across different schools. Therefore, it is important to attend the meeting, understand its context, and participate appropriately. However, it is not the right venue to showcase the incompetence of your supervisors unless it has been specifically asked for. It is important to bear in mind that there is a time and a place to address such issues. The end-of-year staff meeting is not the right forum to air personal differences with a colleague or your supervisor.

End-of-year staff parties

Please hear me out loud, if your school has no plans for an end-of-year staff party, organize one for yourselves. An academic year can be long and challenging for teachers. You have put in so much hard work and dedication, and it's time to celebrate your achievements. If nobody is planning to celebrate your hard work, then you should take the initiative. Work with your colleagues to come up with a budget and find a venue that everyone agrees on. Plan a day filled with activities that promote self-care and team building. This will not only be a chance for you to unwind and relax but also to bond with your colleagues.

Congratulations to all teachers upon completing the 2023 academic year.