Teachers work hard to motivate their students, keep their energy up and manage their classrooms. While there are teachers who are easily motivated because of their upbeat, positive attitudes, there are others who are at risk of suffering burnout. This can lead to a premature exit from teaching, possibly ending their career in the field of education altogether. Being proactive as well as finding things to motivate them may increase job satisfaction and productivity.

Recognition
Recognize teachers who go above and beyond the call of duty. Offer teachers positive feedback on a regular basis, privately and during staff meetings. It makes them feel good about the job they are doing and helps them recognize that they are making a difference. Small rewards, such as gift cards or phone cards, are good gifts to give to teachers when they go above and beyond to help students and fellow teachers.

Morale
Administrators need to keep morale up. It is an extremely sensitive issue and once morale turns sour, it can be a constant uphill battle to recreate a positive attitude. Have an open door policy and listen to the teachers. Do everything possible to make their jobs easier so they can teach and the students can learn. Help out, visit the classrooms and be a constant presence in the school. Face issues head-on and keep private conversations private.

Professsional Development
Approve a teacher's request for a professional development course or workshop whenever possible. When the teacher returns, have a meeting and make plans to pass the learning along. Arrange a short seminar to go over the major points of the workshop. If time allows, the teacher can also plan a special professional development day and pass on more information about what was acquired at the workshop. Learning new strategies helps to increase motivation.

Banquet
Throughout the school year, hold small fundraisers such as hat day or casual day where teachers can pay a small fee to participate. Administrators can collect the money and save it for a luncheon or banquet at the end of the year. The money can be saved in small amounts and will add up fast. It gives the teachers something to look forward to as well as a celebration for another year of teaching. Give out rewards and other prizes at the banquet to recognize the teachers.