The Most Valuable Advice Veteran Teachers Have Been Given

Every teacher remembers the early years—long nights of planning, the constant feeling that there’s more to do, and the never-ending learning curve. It’s a profession that requires heart, patience, and persistence. Thankfully, many veteran teachers are willing to share the wisdom they’ve gained over the years.

Here’s some of the most valuable advice that has stood the test of time, the kind that helps new teachers survive (and even thrive!) in this incredible profession.

1. Watch Your Words Carefully

Students often cling to the last word you say. That’s why a simple shift in phrasing can make all the difference. Instead of calling out, “Don’t run!”—which leaves run ringing in their ears—try “Please walk.” Positive directions are clearer and far more effective.

2. Relationships Are Everything

Many veterans agree: relationships with students and colleagues matter more than almost anything else. Whether it’s taking time to learn about your students’ lives outside of academics or supporting a fellow teacher who’s having a tough day, those connections build trust and make the day-to-day challenges easier to navigate.

3. Don’t Take It Personally

One of the hardest lessons for new teachers is learning not to internalize student behavior. A child acting out is rarely about you—it may be the result of frustration, trauma, or a disability. As one piece of advice goes, “They’re not giving me a hard time; they’re having a hard time.”

4. Tomorrow Is a Fresh Start

Every day is a clean slate. Veteran teachers know that while yesterday may have been tough, today is a chance for new growth. Students often don’t carry yesterday’s challenges with them, and teachers don’t have to either.

5. Take Care of Yourself (and Your Family)

It’s tempting to take on every committee, stay late, and push yourself endlessly. But one retiring teacher reminded her colleagues: the committees won’t remember you, but your family will. It’s okay to step back and put yourself—and your loved ones—first.

6. Learn Who Really Runs the School

Here’s a practical piece of advice: make friends with the office staff and custodians. They know the ins and outs of the school better than anyone. And remember, February is the month when everyone gets cranky—don’t take anything too seriously that month.

7. Establish Boundaries Early

It’s easy to let teaching consume your life. But seasoned educators stress the importance of leaving at a set time, saying “no” when your plate is too full, and remembering that there will always be more to do. Boundaries don’t just protect your energy—they keep you in the profession longer.

8. Classroom Management First

Veteran teachers will tell you: nothing else matters until you’ve got classroom management under control. Instruction, creativity, and innovation can only thrive in a classroom where routines, expectations, and respect are firmly in place.

9. Share the Work With Paraprofessionals

For those working in special education, there’s a golden rule: don’t ask your paraprofessionals to do anything you wouldn’t do yourself. Whether it’s diaper changes, feeding, or assisting with daily care, showing that you’re part of the team builds respect and trust.

10. Don’t Care More Than the Student

A tough one, but true: you can’t want success for a student more than they want it for themselves. Provide support, encouragement, and opportunities, but remember—your effort shouldn’t outweigh theirs. Balance matters.

11. Focus on Behavior Like an Adult

One teacher shared a brilliant litmus test: If the behavior wouldn’t be acceptable in a 30-year-old, then it needs to be addressed now. This keeps expectations grounded in preparing students for real life while also guiding decisions about what behaviors to prioritize in the classroom.

12. Avoid the Teacher’s Lounge

While some camaraderie can be found in the lounge, many veterans caution that it can also be a hotbed of negativity. Protect your mindset by surrounding yourself with supportive, solution-focused colleagues instead.

13. Keep It Clean

Sometimes the most practical advice is also the simplest: keep Lysol handy. Classrooms are germ magnets, and staying healthy is half the battle.

14. Stay Flexible in Your Career

If you feel unhappy in your current role, don’t give up on teaching altogether. Try switching grades, schools, or even districts. Sometimes a fresh environment makes all the difference.

15. You’ll Always Be Learning

Finally, veteran teachers remind us: you never stop learning. Every day in the classroom is a chance to grow—whether it’s from students, colleagues, or your own reflections. The job changes, the challenges shift, but the journey of learning continues.

More Than the Curriculum

Teaching isn’t easy—but the wisdom passed down from experienced educators can make the journey a little smoother. Whether it’s learning to phrase directions positively, remembering that student behavior isn’t personal, or protecting your own boundaries, these pieces of advice highlight one truth: good teaching is as much about mindset and relationships as it is about curriculum.

So the next time you feel overwhelmed, take a breath, remember these words of wisdom, and remind yourself—you’re not alone in this work.

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