It is essential that educators have a good demeanor.
This isn't always the case for a large number of reasons.
As I think about this, I am thinking about what affects my demeanor positively and what affects my demeanor negatively during a school day.
On the positive side, a good demeanor is supported by reasonable expectations, timely/worthy supports, and open, honest communication. When the expectations are too big, supports unhelpful or untimely, and communication missing or inauthentic, that challenges one's demeanor. Fortunately it is often the case that I am well supported in the teaching/learning environment where I work.
A good demeanor is also supported by educators' ability to care for themselves. Good rest, healthy eating, exercise, and other personal supports sets the stage for a good demeanor. Of course if a teacher has to work two jobs to make ends meet or work around the clock to get the teaching work done, that's going to take a toll on that educator's demeanor. This is why unions work hard to make sure that work conditions support healthy living and healthy working.
A good demeanor is supported by reasonable self-expectations and positive daily/weekly habits. If you keep on the work that needs to be done and set reasonable expectations for yourself, that will support a good demeanor.
And, contact time is another essential consideration for good demeanor. Sometimes in schools the contact time is overwhelming. Looking for ways to make that reasonable with good routines for communication and collaboration can help in this regard. Reasonable contact time also leads to a good demeanor.
Our demeanor matters at school, and it's important to consider the factors that affect your demeanor and work to promote an environment that gives you an advantage in this regard.
