Head of teacher’s association urges teachers to do their best; prioritize self-care

Speaking at a Teachers’ Day Rally at Dublanc over the weekend, President of the Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT) Mervin Alexander encouraged teachers to do their best in the profession despite the challenges they are faced with.

“My dear teachers I know that we are saying we are not getting enough money, we all know that, but think of it, we are nurturing minds,” he said. “And you will get your blessings for sure, because you are doing what you are supposed to do, to teach…”

He continued, “You go in the class and you don’t teach, you waste the time of how many students.”

Alexander added, “So please do not let your blessings be taken away from you because you feel dissatisfied with what is happening in your profession.”

He admitted that some teachers are not very happy at the moment, “but don’t let your blessings be taken away from you because of that. Do what you have to do no matter how difficult it is.”

Alexander further advised teachers to take care of themselves.

“Do not let your stress level get too high, because stress kills,” he encouraged. “Please think about yourself also when you are doing those things as well.”

A week of activities to celebrate teachers began with a church service on September 28,  at various churches around the island where recognition was given to members who work in all levels of education.  It culminated on Saturday 5, October 2024 (World Teachers’ Day).

The activities were celebrated under the theme: “Valuing Teacher Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education.”