Schools must regain authority to set limits, psychologist says

Schools must reclaim their authority to establish boundaries and support their educators, according to psychologist Roberto Lerner. Teachers are currently navigating complex challenges that extend beyond instruction, including demands from families and a perceived erosion of their power in the classroom. Lerner highlights that educators often find themselves as the last adult to say 'no' to students accustomed to having their demands met. When institutions consistently yield to parental pressure, teachers receive the message that their authority is negotiable. This dynamic can lead to significant burnout, manifesting as out-of-pocket expenses for classroom needs or enduring unwarranted complaints and situations of disrespect. Lerner emphasizes that this exhaustion stems not from a lack of dedication, but from the difficulty of being the sole source of friction where others do not provide it. He notes that private schools, in particular, struggle to set limits due to financial pressures, fearing the loss of students if they displease families. This can distort the power balance between parents, students, and the school. However, establishing boundaries does not necessitate severing ties with families. Instead, it involves creating clear agreements and fostering a partnership in the educational process. Lerner will discuss these issues at the upcoming Compartir Next congress, advocating for an institutional approach to teacher well-being rather than solely individual self-care. His proposal aims to equip administrators with tools to better understand current students, strengthen family relationships, and develop mechanisms to emotionally support teachers. He clarifies that regaining authority does not mean reverting to rigid models but rather restoring the school's capacity to make and uphold decisions.