Dear Teachers, Don’t Quit!

By. Meredith Biesinger 

The “Great Resignation” is a trendy topic right now, and it certainly doesn’t exclude educators. Teachers have been leaving the classroom in droves over the last two years, primarily due to the additional stress placed upon them during the pandemic. 

Of course, most people feel that teachers are underpaid, and rightfully so. However, data reveals that the number one reason educators leave the classroom is stress. 

There are many reasons why someone might leave their job; it is very much a personal decision. However, if stress leads to your decision to leave teaching, try implementing these tips before submitting a resignation letter. 

1) Stop and consider why you went into teaching in the first place. Take some time to become a student again, and read a book about your hero or the teaching profession. Consider writing down your thoughts and frustrations so you can review or revisit them later. 

2) Rearrange your classroom.

3) Implement a “passion project” into your curriculum. This will help spark joy for you as a teacher and have a positive ripple effect on your students. 

4) FOCUS ON THE POSITIVE. It can be easy to become overwhelmed by the workload, the mouthy student in 5th period, or the number of meetings to attend. However, if you focus on the good things your students are doing and the impact you are making on their lives, you might be reminded that it makes it all worthwhile.

5) Bring in guest speakers. Students hear from you every day, and the novelty of your voice quickly wears off. Bringing in content experts to the classroom is exciting for the students, brings in a wealth of knowledge you might not have, and gives you a small break from teaching. If your school is not allowing guest speakers at this time, consider having a “virtual guest speaker.” 

Teaching is a profession of the heart, mind, and soul. It’s certainly not for everyone, but at some point, remember that it was for you. “Teachers have three loves: love learning, love of learners, and the love of bringing the first two loves together.” ~Scott Hayden