Been there, done that. Deciding on whether or not to use a sick day can be one of the toughest decisions you will ever make. You rationalize: "I'll miss a day of instruction", "It is almost time for testing and I haven't taught all of my standards!", "What if my favorite sub is not available?", "What if the parent I need to talk to comes to school today?" "What if the PD is something that will help me as an educator?" (Okay, I've never actually thought that but.....)
The point is, we often talk ourselves out of using a sick day when we really need one. A few years ago a very wise principal put it into perspective for our staff. "Use your days wisely, but use them when you think you need to. If you think you need a mental health day, you probably do. You will be more effective when you return than if you try to push through the day. This place will still be here when you return. " I've remembered those words and taken them to heart. And yes, I still feel guilty when I call in sick, but he was right.
We feel guilty because we truly care about our students and about their progress. We take our responsibility seriously (sometime too seriously) and set high and lofty goals for ourselves. We are teachers. It is in our blood. So, how do we overcome those feelings of guilt?
First off, your district has provided sick days for your use. If they didn't want you to use them, they wouldn't be a part of your contract. Time has proven that teachers are exposed to every illness known to man, including stress. Stress is not something to brush aside. If you are stressed, your immune system is not functioning properly. You need time to de-stress. I call this prevention. Just like taking a vitamin C to ward off colds, rest can help to lessen stress.
Secondly, you know if you need to use one. Prepare your room and your resources. Tell a trusted colleague. Tell and email your administrator. Walk out the door with a clear conscience knowing that you have prepared to the best of your ability and you will come back refreshed and rested.
Thirdly, TAKE the sick day. I mean use it for the intended purpose- rest and recharge. Don't waste your time feeling guilty, checking email, or calling in. Trust in your preparation and use the day as you need. You may need to catch up on grading to feel unstressed. You may need to compose some parent letters in peace and quiet. Or you may need to read a novel or watch a movie.
Bottom line- don't feel guilty about taking a day to make yourself a better teacher. You and your students will benefit from your time off.
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