Call for Social Justice Newsletter Articles

As we move from the inner circle of self through our connections with others, we can begin to look at our reality in a different way. This reframing approach can help us address any number of common challenges, both inside and outside of the classroom. We create and maintain connection with others by building relationships. We tap into our social awareness when we think about how our actions and choices impact others. Relationships are the fabric that holds our school communities together. Over the past few months, we have heard repeatedly that “we are all in this together.” As we return to our classrooms and close the door, it is important to remember that we do not have to find all the answers by ourselves.

In his article “5 Strategies for Teacher Self-Care,” Jon Harper likens this to what happens when we hold an umbrella too long in the rain and wind. Our arms begin to shake and eventually we drop the umbrella. Yet, if a colleague asked us to hold their umbrella for them, we would not hesitate because we know they would do the same for us. A school community is built on connection. We take care of our students, and we need to take care of each other.

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Mental Health and COVID-19: Supporting students and their families Available on TeachBC: www.teachbc.bctf.ca

As a teacher, you occupy a critical front-line role in preventative mental health education, initial identification, and ongoing school-based support for children and adolescents with mental health challenges. Schools are a key part of social networks that build resiliency and foster social ties that can decrease the negative impact of traumatic events.

As you connect with your students and their families, you may hear the stress and anxiety in their voices. Students and families may share struggles with you and look to you for support and answers. This short guide provides you with information related to mental health and COVID-19, as well as contact details for organizations that can provide further support.

Do you have a story to share about a social justice activity or project that you have carried out in your classroom, local, or community? Is there a social justice issue that you would like to highlight for BCTF members?

We are currently accepting articles for the Winter/Spring 2021 see the submission guidelines document on the Social Justice Newsletter web page under Publications on the BCTF website.

The deadline for the Winter/Spring 2021 edition is edition of the Social Justice Newsletter. For more information,

December 15, 2020.