Is Teaching a Young Person’s Game? After 27 years of teaching, I chose to leave. That many years in a position that asks more than you can give takes it’s toll on an individual both mentally and physically.
I say “I chose to leave” but honestly I had no other choice. I couldn’t come back to school not even one more day without breaking down. I was experiencing the loss of a child and I felt that my employer could care less. I felt that all the time, energy and devotion I had bestowed upon this school was unappreciated. I was just someone who could be replaced by a newer less expensive model
extra-curricular activities. Senority didn’t have the same respect as it used to, it only meant you were closer to retirement. I noticed that the young teachers moved faster than I did. My health was deteriorating and I was becoming tied to my desk more and more. Between my hips, my knees, and other health issues, I found that I needed to make accommodations so I could reach all my students. My students always learned a great deal in my classroom and my scores were always comparable. My growth numbers were very good.
Wait, let me take a step back and explain, I felt a shift in the working dynamic on campous. I began to notice the lack of patience with the more seasoned teacher. I noticed a division of the teachers. I noticed that admin was asking newer, younger teachers to take over lead positions or
Yet, I was beginning to feel less and less relevant. I didn’t have the discipline issues other teachers had. My classroom management was easy for me. I could do it with my eyes closed. It was who I am. I was respectful and expected the same in return. One day, my principal came into my classroom and told me that I had missed too much school. I
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Teachers Making a Difference | Issue 4, November 2022
