Take the Vacation

By. Teresa Marchant

I am writing this post while waiting to board my plane at the airport. I am just getting back from a short vacation with my family…

I have taught for 24 years and have rarely missed school. I may have used a day here and there to go to appointments or attend to family obligations. However, I have never gone on vacation during the school year. This was something I had always felt was irresponsible on an educators’ part. My thinking over the past two years has definitely changed.

My random thoughts…

My family is my priority even If it means I miss a few days of work to spend time with them. Your family deserves the best of you– not what is “left over.” 

Mental health days are important for teachers. That is why most teacher contracts have discretionary leave available. Most even have a “use it or lose it” clause when it comes to rolling over days.

Our students will survive a few days with a substitute. Yes, they really will!

Leaving a detailed lesson plan is VERY important, better yet visit with your sub before you leave or have them observe you in the classroom. Make sure you request time off in advance and follow all your district procedures when it comes to requesting leave.

Going on a vacation isn’t irresponsible, it may be exactly what you need. This allows you to completely remove yourself from your surroundings. It will also be important to limit outside contact. This means NOT checking your email!  And remember a word of caution about posting your vacation photos to social media… DON’T! For your security, wait until you return home. I only have one regret about my vacation…I just wish I had learned sooner in my career the importance of self-care. I hope you can learn from my mistake and book your next vacation.