Educators the world over have had a tumultuous time throughout the pandemic. The reasons why are many and varied and have been well reported. I had the good fortune of contributing to Tes magazine during 2020 and discussed the different approaches to remote learning in my home city of Melbourne, Australia, which had the dubious honour of being the most locked-down city in the world at the time.
My personal experience throughout that time felt relatively positive: my employment was secure, I could pay my mortgage and my co-parenting arrangements were such that I could provide care for my young daughter. But as I’ve taken stock, I’ve started to wonder if perhaps the parameters I measured my experience against tell only part of the story.
Pandemic teaching and its impact
It was an almost impossible situation. Everyone did their best to put on their most stoic, agile, and resilient skin each day, but we all weather with the march of time. Keeping people connected in a time that required us to be apart was the magic trick many people managers performed and refined over time. The daily check-ins, an impartial ear, modified roles and additional support, Teams meetings and Friday Zoom drinks; all small gestures, but the sum of their parts profound. This time called for us all to be kind to ourselves - and others, and in my own way, perhaps I succeeded. But often success comes at a princely sum.
Eventually, the fumes evaporate, and the tank is bare. I’ve become better at identifying this now, but still, I often find myself squeezing every last mile out of the proverbial oily rag. I can attest it is not wise nor sustainable to run on said emotional deficit, but am advised that it can be remedied with a good dose of self-care; finding moments to prioritise myself and my wants in life. The “oxygen mask” metaphor comes to mind; how can I possibly help others if I can’t help myself?
Ready for the next step
I extrapolate this to my professional context and the realisation that, perhaps, in order to become a more effective leader, and more importantly, a more contented professional, I need to grow the breadth of my skills, experience different challenges and acquire new knowledge. But how does one approach this goal while working in such a specialised area of arts education? Different leadership role? Join a new committee? Apply for that position at that school just around the corner from home?
One of the great appeals of music to me has always been playing a part in something bigger than oneself. Contributing to an ensemble or creating something with others evokes some beautiful memories and visceral emotions. To be a member of a team; to belong, to contribute. Think of it as progress after a time of stagnation or as a catalyst of empowerment. Either way; I have taken pause. I am ready. It’s time.
