Life sometimes forces us to make difficult decisions. For me, the shift from teaching to focusing on my family was a journey marked by both internal struggle and personal growth. This blog post reflects on why I left teaching, how the school district's treatment affected me, and my ongoing efforts to heal and rebuild.
Teaching had always been my passion. I loved interacting with students, seeing them grasp new concepts, and contributing to their growth. However, over time, I began to feel increasingly alienated by the school district. Despite my dedication and hard work, I felt more like a villain than a valued educator. The district's policies and administrative decisions during such an uncertain period often left me feeling unsupported and unappreciated. It became a toxic environment, and my mental health began to suffer.
The arrival of COVID-19 intensified everything. The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to education, and teachers were on the front lines, trying to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances. The pressure was immense, and the lack of support from the district became even more glaring. I was juggling remote teaching and in-person classes, trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy for my students. Managing the anxiety of the pandemic and keeping up with constant policy changes overwhelmed me, and my mental health reached a breaking point.
Amidst this turmoil, my family needed me more than ever. The pandemic affected everyone, and being present for my growing family became a priority. The decision to leave teaching was not easy. It felt like abandoning a part of myself, but I knew it was necessary for my well-being and the well-being of my family. I needed to be home to provide stability and support during these uncertain times.
Leaving the profession I loved was heartbreaking. I felt betrayed by the school district and was left with deep emotional scars. I felt lost and uncertain about my future. It was a period of intense self-reflection and emotional healing. I had to confront the feelings of inadequacy and disappointment that had taken root.
Bouncing back has been a gradual process. I can’t tell you how many jobs I applied for. I worked a bunch of odd jobs. I felt like education was my life and the only thing I was good at. I had to take a step back and focus on my mental health, seeking therapy, and finding new ways to channel my passion for teaching and helping others. Life coaching has played a significant role in this recovery, helping me to reframe my experiences and find new directions. I've learned to set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and embrace the importance of mental well-being.
I was brought on to create curriculum for First Push Syndicate. Through this, I rediscovered my passion for teaching. It also led to a semester at UNH as an adjunct professor teaching Lifetime Activities to future Physical Education Teachers. Both were amazing experiences that I hope to continue.
I am grateful for the lessons this journey has taught me. My experience has underscored the importance of advocating for better support systems for educators. It has also deepened my appreciation for the resilience and adaptability we are all capable of.
As I continue to rebuild and rediscover my path, I am hopeful. My family is thriving, and I am finding new ways to contribute and grow. The road has been challenging, but it has also been an opportunity for profound personal growth.
Leaving teaching was one of the hardest decisions I've ever made, driven by a need to care for my mental health and be there for my family. The challenges I faced highlighted significant issues within the education system, but they also paved the way for new beginnings. Healing is a journey, and while the scars remain, they remind me of my strength and resilience. Here's to embracing change, advocating for better support for educators, and finding new ways to make a difference.
I’m happy to report that “I’m back on my bullshit.” Cue my theme music...
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