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It’s time to stop treating ourselves like volunteers. Our dedication doesn’t mean we should accept every added task without questioning compensation, prep time, and reasonable expectations.

The 5 Questions Every Teacher Needs to Be Comfortable Asking

When approached with new responsibilities or tasks that stretch beyond your contracted role, be prepared to ask these crucial questions:

1. What Are You Planning on Spending On…?

If your administration approaches you about starting a new program or club, ask upfront about the budget. Whether it’s a new band program, drama club, or after-school initiative, it’s essential to understand the financial commitment involved. Suggest providing data and resources to help guide the decision, but don’t take on the role without a clear understanding of what support is available.

2. When Should We Discuss How This Gets Paid For?

If you’re being asked to work after hours, take on additional planning, or run an event, you deserve to be compensated. Ask directly when the conversation about pay will take place. Teachers too often end up volunteering their time without being paid fairly, and that needs to stop.

3. When Is My Prep Time Scheduled for This Role?

Any additional responsibility should come with designated prep time. If you’re being asked to teach extra classes or cover duties, make sure it doesn’t consume your existing prep time. Your regular work should not suffer because of new tasks and you should not be working hours after school to fit in these new responsibilities.

4. What Salary Increase Can I Expect From This Role?

Talking about money can be uncomfortable, but you are not greedy for asking to be fairly compensated. Just like any other professional, if you’re taking on a significant new responsibility, it should come with a pay increase. Don’t shy away from discussing salary adjustments.

5. How Can We Collaborate to Increase My Budget?

Sometimes the problem isn’t just about time, but resources. If you’re struggling with inadequate materials or funding, talk to your administration about finding solutions together. This might include applying for grants, talking to the PTA, or creating a fundraising plan.

Be Your Own Advocate –

It’s Not Selfish

Being confident in your worth does not make you selfish or greedy. The teaching profession has a long history of being undervalued, and too many of us have fallen into the mindset of just doing whatever it takes to get the job done, even if it means sacrificing our own well-being. It’s time to change that narrative.

Knowing your worth means respecting your own time and expertise. It’s about setting boundaries that protect your mental health and energy. It’s about making sure you’re being treated as a professional, not just a passionate volunteer.

Being a Team Player Doesn’t Mean Being Taken Advantage Of

Of course, we want to support our schools and help where we can. But being a team player doesn’t mean accepting every new role without question. Your value as an educator comes not just from your willingness to help but from your ability to effectively teach and inspire students. You can’t do that if you’re burnt out and overwhelmed.

Teamwork should be a two-way street. You give your time and effort, and the school gives you the resources and compensation you need. If the school values your skills enough to ask for your help, they should also value them enough to provide the necessary support.

Looking for More Professional Development?

Want more resources on how to advocate for yourself and maintain healthy boundaries in education? Join the Soaring Scarves Academy for a FREE month and gain access to our full professional development session and other valuable training! Or visit our online store to purchase this PD session individually.

Together, let’s build a community of empowered, confident educators who know their worth and are unafraid to stand up for what they deserve.

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