The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened long-standing mental health challenges for students. Inequities in resources to deal with those problems are also more evident than before. But, school leaders can’t forget about the adults in the building. That would be a huge mistake.

 Gallup research shows us that:

• 1 in 4 Americans reported feeling a lot of sadness the previous day.

• 28% of US employees experience burnout on the job often or always.

• 7 in 10 people globally are struggling or suffering in their lives.

 Schools and district offices can and should improve their employees’ wellbeing. When leaders and managers nurture the whole person at work, not as just the teacher, they stimulate the success of every individual in the school.

 School leaders need to find innovative solutions to responding to the pandemic’s impact on teachers.

These three strategies can be used to increase teacher engagement and well-being:

• Have well-being activities and encourage participation in them as part of setting job expectations. E.g. I know a school who offers health and wellbeing vouchers that include 1-1 CliftonStrengths sessions. This highlights each employee's unique talents and interests and helps them apply their talents for a more fulfilled life.

• Celebrate employees for committing to their well-being. Remember, “recognition reinforces what is valued!” and is a strong motivator.

• Gather employee ideas about wellbeing and incorporate them into school initiatives. Asking for and using ideas creates engagement, buy-in and makes people feel they are contributing to a healthier workplace.

A focus on adult wellbeing in schools may sound like a stretch. Time, money, resources and school cultures all make the shift to healthier school a challenge. But, we ignore teacher wellbeing at our peril. If we truly want schools were students thrive, we need schools where teachers can thrive.