Speaker: Anisatul Faizah, M.Pd
Reporter: Aliyah Arika Fatin, S.Psi
Malang, Friday, 6 November 2025 / 15 Jumadil Awal 1447 H
The Teacher Support Teacher (TST) program once again took place at SDI Al Azhar 56 Malang, offering a warm and collaborative space for shared learning. This program is designed not only to enhance teachers’ competencies, but also to strengthen the relationships among educators—reminding us that teachers are not only instructors, but also lifelong learners who grow and support one another. This session featured Ms. Anisatul Faizah, M.Pd, who delivered an insightful discussion on confidence, communication, and the continuous learning mindset.
Fear Is Real—But Manageable
Research shows that 77% of people fear public speaking, and according to Cudy (2023), only 30.8% of Indonesians possess adequate English proficiency.
These numbers are not meant to intimidate, but to acknowledge that fear is a natural part of being human. However, the speaker emphasized that courage is not the absence of fear.
“Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the judgment that something else is more important than fear.”
Teachers are reminded that teaching, communicating, and learning new skills will always involve nervousness or hesitation. Yet the purpose we pursue—bringing change, inspiring others, or opening new learning pathways—is often far more meaningful than the fear itself.
Me vs. Me: Growth Begins Within
A key message from the session is learning is a journey against oneself—not against other teachers or other schools.
“We start from somewhere. We are now here. Others start somewhere else, and they are now there.”
Every teacher has their own process, pace, and direction of growth. Constant comparison can be exhausting; what truly matters is appreciating personal progress—no matter how small.
Growth rarely happens inside our comfort zone. It begins when we take the first step, even if it is hesitant or slow. And each step holds value.
“Growth often begins where comfort ends.”
A Positive Learning Environment: The Foundation of Growth
Another important insight from the session was the significance of a supportive learning environment. Teachers who feel accepted, valued, and encouraged are more willing to try new things, ask questions, and share their best practices.
“A positive learning environment is conducive to growth.”
TST embodies this spirit; a space where teachers uplift one another, knowledge is shared without fear of judgment, and questions are seen as part of the learning process—not a sign of weakness.
Closing: When Teachers Grow, Schools Grow
Ultimately, we are building a learning culture—one that goes beyond curriculum, schedules, or targets. It is a culture grounded in the belief that:
Learning is a lifelong journey.
Sharing knowledge is an act of devotion and care.
Teachers, too, are individuals who continually grow.
When teachers support one another, students feel the impact. When teachers learn together, the school moves forward together.
“Teachers grow → Students are inspired → The school flourishes.”
