One teacher I met while working as a CO in a state prison told me that he moved to teaching adult inmates because the work environment was vastly superior. Unlike teenagers in public schools the inmates weren’t allowed to act up in class or threaten anyone. All he had to do when dealing with an out of control inmate student was report the issue to the officer assigned to the education building. The out of control student went directly to administrative confinement in every case. The administration never expected him to educate anyone who refused to learn. He was never thrown to the wolves when dealing with a potentially dangerous student. He never had to compete with classroom distractions from students. He never had to reward anyone who failed to perform well enough to achieve his posted classroom standard. The vast majority of his students were respectful and self motivated in prison. Total lack of consequences for negative behavior and overly empowered students are the root causes of public education failure. Teachers should have the right to maintain control over their classrooms and be safe in the workplace. It’s sad that prison is the last remaining safe workplace for teachers.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this insightful comment! 👏

@marcmeinzer8859

4 ай бұрын

I heard the same thing while teaching GED at Job Corps. On of the teaching aides had been a youth leader at the Cuyahoga Hills Boy’s School at the juvenile prison in Warrensville Heights, Ohio where the boys were marched around in formation and anyone screwing off in class was sent to solitary confinement, according to various accounts I heard. Although Job Corps was better than high school some of the kids were real screw offs. But we had disciplinary hearings where we could actually expel kids from the program.

I taught successfully for 40 years, I was teacher of the year three times. The last three years were hopeless. The administrators would readily attack teachers to secure their jobs, the parents would attack the teachers to pretend that they care about their kids and they did not and the School board would attack the administrators to set this all in motion. We had no redress for our difficulties, no place to turn. After three final years of this I could not wait to quit the job that I once dearly loved. Also, teachers that played with the teachers with no educational focus became teachers of the year and weak teachers would become principals and superintendents. The hierarchy makes a teachers job hopeless. I hope that they all quit.

So well said. I’m so tired of faculty meetings that are basically admin chewing out teachers for student behavioral issues. The micromanaging is insane and my admin only want to see packets and worksheets. I’m so tired of trying to teach students who have been sent on and on even though they aren’t ready. I end up with a classroom full of sophomores who read like 3rd graders.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

💯 Absolutely! Stay strong friend ❤

@casebeth

2 жыл бұрын

Yep. Retaining needs to be normalized.

@ladykemma3

2 жыл бұрын

How different my school is. We get in trouble when we use packets and worksheets

@edwardgorman9930

2 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy your videos are amazing, insightful and candid. Thank you so much. As a certified teacher myself, I have experienced more or less quite similar scenarios to those which you address in your vlogs. If you do not mind me asking, what state did you teach in?

@toddsmith6774

2 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy I think you have great ideas and you are completely on the mark. How do I get in touch with you?

I’ve been teaching at various public and charter middle schools for 18.5 years. I think that one of the biggest issues in our profession is the tremendous guilt trip we encounter from all stakeholders. Dissatisfied with pay and working conditions? “Do it for the children!” Working 50-60 hrs per week without overtime pay? “Do it for the children!” Abusive students and parents who are NEVER satisfied no matter what you do? “Do it for the children!” Incompetent Admin and district coaches? “Do it for the children!” Changing curricula every year? “Do it for the children!” Changing grade levels and classrooms every year? “Do it for the children!” I love my students, but I love me more, and they are not enough.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Yes Carrie, you are telling the truth!! I have especially felt that way recently! In my district we have been treated very poorly this year, but they lay the guilt on thick! I'm glad I am not the only one who feels this way! You are amazing for surviving 18+ years of teaching ❤!

@vbolton9

3 жыл бұрын

I was a registered nurse for 25 years, got a master’s degree in education when I was 55. Teaching is the best job I have ever had. Nothing is perfect, but having such high expectations for students and parents will only lead to the disappointment she’s expressing.

@casebeth

2 жыл бұрын

This is why I got out afrer 1 semester. I deserve to do things for ME sometimes.

@polarpalmwv4427

2 жыл бұрын

Yup - except "do it for the children" doesn't pay the bills or give you time for family, friends, exercise, and a life outside of work.

@jimmotheus6151

2 жыл бұрын

100% correct. Couldn’t have said it better. But one more thing. “Hey can I make a wage to raise my kids?” Them: greedy bastard.

Freshman in high school here, everything is spot on. I grew up in a very small religious private school in Texas (I'm talking like 18 kids per grade) and it was very conservative and strict. If you brought your phone/cursed/were caught in a fight/disrespected a teacher you were expelled, uniforms needed to meet code, everything was done on pens and paper, knowing latin by 6th grade was standard, etc etc. Because of the pandemic and my parents wanting me to expand my horizons, they put me in public high school. Absolute clown world. It has no dress code, phones are out 24/7, people openly disrespect teachers, drugs and vaping happen all in the bathrooms, etc. Not to mention how people have tried to cheat off of me multiple times or begged me for copied homework, which never happened before. I was surrounded by people who read on a 5th grade level while I was reading at a lexile score of 1800 (above college level). I became friends with all of the teachers first and they told me all the things you're saying. Really disappointing. :/

@misterb1132

2 жыл бұрын

27-year 5th & 6th grade teacher here...that was an excellent example of the contrasts. We are way to loose. The students have the power now, along with parents and principals.

If this isn't already a TED talk, it should be.... well done. And so timely.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you! :)

@margybernard

4 жыл бұрын

I second that! Well spoken facts 👏

@yuliyamoshkovskiy199

4 жыл бұрын

Yes! You described every reason why I quit! Except for my student behavior, my students in particular were better behaved than other classes. They are the only part of teaching I miss.

@SarahG266

5 ай бұрын

Yes 🙌

All so true. I resigned after 21 years of teaching, 3 years in high school and 18 in middle school, primarily teaching English. I worked my way through many jobs to pay for college; it took me nine years to get my degree, only to discover that the teaching profession isn’t so much about education as it is a baby-sitting service. In four years I’m eligible for full retirement; I’ll put in for it then and just tough it out with something else until then. It is so frustrating and painful to teach that it defies belief. The only people who would believe the stories we can tell are other teachers - basically preaching to the choir. Everyone else thinks we’re crazy or just making up wild claims of student disruption, incompetent leadership, and poor management of funds. Although the pay could be better, I would settle for less if I could just get an assistant in the room and maybe keep the same programs in place for more than a year or two. Parents and administrators aren’t held accountable, so students aren’t held accountable. Instead, teachers receive the bulk of the blame for the myriad of maladies that affect education, even though we have the least control over what happens!! There it is in a nutshell.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Wow Michael, you gave an incredible summary of the teaching experience! You are a hero for sticking it out for 21 years! I am sure your students were blessed to have you even if they didn't realize it! I hope you are able to find a more peaceful and healing job for the next 4 years. You are so right, many people don't realize what a toll teaching takes and what a sacrificial job it is. The only other job I can think of with such sacrifice, disrespect and low pay is the job of a police officer. Now there are some sad parallels between the job of a teacher and an officer which is heartbreaking! I do hope things change in our lifetime.

@reneedennis2011

2 жыл бұрын

Exactly 💯!

@glimmeringsea5105

2 жыл бұрын

Totally true. Don't forget the 1% of the teachers who make the 99% of the teachers look bad.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Sooooo true 🥺 alot of people believe terrible things about teachers due to the actions of a few 😭

@jjc6530

Жыл бұрын

How do you maintain sanity and continue with the system so messed up? Its beyond ridiculous, if there is word, It’s unreal expectation and unreasonable, unrealistic working conditions and requirements.

This whole situation with people being labelled problematic for speaking out is why I left after 1 semester. I will not tolerate being silenced in the face of injustice.

I taught for 25 years and everything you just summarized about the frustrations of teaching are spot on. I started in 1996 and the first 15 years was rewarding mostly because all of these issues you've pointed out weren't as intense. Unfortunately the last 10 years of my career as a teacher was downhill on the teaching/rewarding end. The last five I was moved to 8th grade ELA where I enjoyed the students mostly, I would say about 95% but the administration and the curriculum debacle was a nightmare. I believe it all stems from, yes, the trends of what's shiny and entertaining for the students and principals observing. If everyone in the classroom doesn't seem engaged, then the teacher is failing in some way. NOT FAIR!! What others don't realize is that every person is responsible for engaging from their end as well. If what I'm teaching is uninteresting to some, that just how life is. Not everything in everyone's world can be rainbows and puffy clouds. I am disgusted at how the education system has gone down the toilet. I can remember the exact moment during my teaching career when I realized this is a turning point in education and as a teacher it was going to make my life quite complicated and miserable. I was in a meeting at the end of the year inside the computer lab and the presenter was a person from the special education realm. He was informing the teachers about how many hoops we would have to jump through before you could remove anyone, especially the special kids, from the classroom. Now let me make sure you understand. A huge amount of our "so called" special education students were not really special education just bad kids that no one wanted to deal with so they labeled them to have the option to put them elsewhere so that teachers could still teach. But it backfired on the administration because they were told by higher ups that now this special kids had more power to remain on school campuses regardless of how they were behaving. So I believe that the principals were really trouble shooting and helping teachers to find ways to still teach the majority of kids who wanted to learn. But someone above principals found out and we were severely punished for this practice. Anyway I believe it comes down to the parent and if the parent raised their child to be respectful to adults and do their learning job to the best of their ability we would not be so deep into this rabbit hole. I know some teachers are not the best but isn't that the responsibility of the administration to weed these terrible teachers out of the system. But they can't because there isn't anyone waiting in the wings to take the job, so they continue with whatever warm body is willing to remain in the classroom. I retired in December of 2020 and everyday I still thank my husband for letting me remove myself from this abusive career.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your story! It is so beneficial for us to hear the experiences of veteran teachers! I can't imagine 25 years of teaching! You deserve a crown! ❤ I agree with everything you said, and it is such a relief to be free from the politics of teaching! 🤗

@elliottpaine9259

2 жыл бұрын

It soundsl iike the administration and overall "set up" is to turn you into a people pleaser. Just going through the motions and saying yes on the outside when you feel like saying No on the inside over issues.

@andayibrewmbirika2441

Жыл бұрын

Oh yeh most def agree about so called special needs kids,,theyre NOT special they are just behavior issues kids that mainstream schools wouldnt tolerate so the spec needs schools get used as a dumping ground and they bully the kids who really are special!! And now the regional spec needs officer has declared a child cannot be denied on the basis of behavior,,,these so called spec kids can barely spell yet have no problem accusing teachers of sexual harrasment and violently threatening teachers with super abusive language only for principal to ask me what i did to instigate the outburst….well if u must know i said good morning n got met with abuse… endless draftings of useless behavior plans,,, one child brought a buzz saw into school n held 20 of us to ransom!! Special kid yeah right…nothing wrong with these future thugs but the decline in education started in the 1988/89 academic year n it all makes sense today in how bad it has progressed…teaching is no longer respectable; its all about kissing the childs ass n letting them walk all over us!

@robertclegg2609

Жыл бұрын

Started teaching in 1993 & taught for 27 years to retire in summer 2021. Ditto. Everything. It's not just you, and you saw everything clearly. No Child Left Behind and charter schools/vouchers did *no one* any good except maybe Betsy DeVos, who I'm reliably informed owns for-profit ventures who make money from these things. I remember in 2000 when we were told that, by 2014, every child would make "Annual Yearly Progress" or our school would be held accountable and be closed/"reconstituted"/teachers fired. I said at the time, "Well, I guess we're closing in 2014, then!" (Turns out I was wrong; as soon as the rich kids' school district had a few stragglers putting them in "yellow"/danger zone -- POOF, rules change and they don't have to close! Amazing!) Retired, baby. Weight's down, blood pressure down 20 points, fitness up, and not going back for love nor money. They said they wanted teachers to be accountable. They said they wanted bad teachers out. None of us could get all the kids to succeed so I guess we're all bad teachers so we should all go. Careful what you wish for, America. I'm old enough and my kids don't want kids so -- NOT MY PROBLEM. Good luck, 'Murica. ☮️❤️♾️

@oraclehaveacookie9737

Жыл бұрын

This is so true. I am not a teacher but a worked with kids in the scouts. I stopped when I noticed that kids and they parents were getting very abusive. That was 25 years ago.

We are functionable people in dysfunctional institutions. Thank you for taking the time to lay this out so clearly and being the voice for so many of us. I teach both highschool and middle school and have several certification areas, which has saved me from unemployment due to budget cuts. Our district has a policy "no student can receive a grade lower than a 55" even if that student has never stepped foot in my classroom. This policy applies to full year courses as well as semester courses. Evidently no one has done the math. In my semester courses, this is half of their grade. In a full year course, that is only a quarter of the grade. The worst part is that when a student fails because they have never attended the class or done any of the work, I'm expected to create "credit recovery" curriculum that is administered (more like done) by a Special Education teacher and I must sign off once they have completed enough work to receive a 67. Keep in mind, they have a head start with that 55. Some of us are even assigned to a tutoring center as one of our classes and expected to tutor students of all grades in any subject area they are failing. If we are short on students, because so many just skip, we are expected to write curriculum for our subject areas and create answer keys so any teacher in the center can work with a student in any subject area. I've watched how the center operates and these kids are not learning, they are being spoon fed answers, have no legitimate assessment and yet receive credit and a pat on the back of a job well done. I understand the state has put pressure on schools to meet the numbers but this is a manipulation of the system and cheats students out an education, giving them a false sense that they have truly earned their degree. After 20 years of teaching, I'm retiring at the end of next year. Trying to change things has only labeled me as a "thorn in their side" and has affected how I am scheduled and what classes I teach. I left the Business world because I wanted to do something that would matter but I no longer want to "drink the kool-aid" . I've saved documentation over the years and hope to find someone willing to do an HONEST documentary about what is really happening in education. I have stayed hoping to make the difference in kids lives and believe I have but our children are our future and they have a right to real education. Thank you for giving us a place to voice our frustration.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Terri! Wow your story is incredible; I've never heard anything quite like it! What you are describing is so unfortunate for everyone involved 😕. The challenges in education will have a ripple effect for generations to come, and sadly those that can afford an excellent traditional education will be light years ahead of students who were never truly required to learn and demonstrate real mastery of content with real grades 😢. Wonderful teachers like you just want to help kids yet are forced into these no win situations by these policies. The fact that you have stayed for 20 years is amazing, and I am sure you have had an incredible impact on hundreds of lives. God Bless you, and I hope that you are able to find a career that is both rewarding & ethical. Thanks for sharing your story 😊.

@jjc6530

Жыл бұрын

It’s really sad how the education system in the US has deteriorated to its current state. Really sad. I’m trying to imagine what 5 years from now, what education would look like. Research shows technology will take over and learning will be online instead of brick and mortar, but kids nowadays can’t even focus for 5 minutes in the computer screen listening to instruction. This is mainly for American kids I must sadly say.

Teaching is definitely a LIFESTYLE. It's a ministry and it's TOUGH. Compulsory education has killed the value of education in America. Teacher documentation is RIDICULOUS. There is no autonomy. Teachers aren't trusted or valued by admin., parents or students. Girl, you have HIT THE NAIL on the head!! I've been in 20yrs and I agree with EVERYTHING EVERYTHING you've said. OMG...can this be viewed by ALL ADMINISTRATORS and SUPERINTENDENTs!!!!

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for your support & kind words 🙏 God Bless You! :)

Excellent commentary! You are spot on. I am 55 years old and am in my 29th year. I started teaching in what I call the last part of the 'golden era' of teaching meaning before standardized tests. When I was a kid and you got in trouble there were definite consequences as in a paddle across the behind. When I started teaching, kids could get suspended for fighting or using inappropriate language but now nothing happens. Again, when I was youngster it was understood that you represented the family when you left the house so don't embarrass the family by getting in trouble. I'm now teaching kids of kids and I can tell you that the parents now were a generation of no consequences, participation trophies and having helicopter parents so it is no surprise that they do not discipline their own kids. Schools are all about test scores and customer service. Great test scores=Great school! Admin wants to please parents so they don't take their kids elsewhere. The profession has teachers leaving in record numbers and young people do not want to enter the profession so public education is in crisis.

@pistoffpussycat5778

2 жыл бұрын

Plus, there is a lot of teacher bashing going on in the news. Etc. They are driving out quality professionals, making it necessary to hire and retain candidates who are not so good. This is how quality has been driven down into the ground.

@elliottpaine9259

2 жыл бұрын

Great insight on all this. I am curious, what is a "helicopter parent"? Does that have to do with say... a parent that is not around or available and then 'swoops in' ? Please make it clear. you use it like a phrase but im not familiar with that phrase.

@wattthefaqameye1146

2 жыл бұрын

@@elliottpaine9259 from what I understand, a helicopter parent is actually an overinvolved parent that hovers -- like a helicopter.

@misterb1132

2 жыл бұрын

@@wattthefaqameye1146 Usually waiting for a chance to complain to the Principal about a minor issue or that their child was treated unfairly.

@maxalberts2003

2 жыл бұрын

Look at the "families" they come from. Boozing, drugging, unemployed, undereducated, criminal, yes, even inbred....When is enough enough, and how do we STOP these creatures from procreating in the first place?

Today was my last day as a teacher.... my room got packed up and I’m staying home with my kids next year! Everything you said hit the nail on the head! Only three years in and I’m out ✌🏼

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Congrats to you Meredith! I bet it feels great to get to spend more time with your family and craft a life you love! God Bless You!! :)

@casebeth

2 жыл бұрын

Good!!! Your real life is at home

@misterb1132

2 жыл бұрын

Oh my gosh! That sounds so positive and strong. Late seeing this. I am 27 years in, all in 5th & 6th grade, and just had a rather unfair low evaluation by my Principal, and haven't been comfortable at work in five years. Told her I feel anxious when I turn onto our street.

@meredithf6837

2 жыл бұрын

@@misterb1132 I understand the exact feeling! I used to think about what would happen if I got in a car wreck on the way to school 😕 Life outside of teaching has been the biggest breath of fresh air! 🤩

@solangelawrence6765

2 жыл бұрын

Congratulations Freedom 👏 👏 👏 Take care of you!!!! Love you....

I’m a middle school teacher and these are all the reasons I’m looking into going back for a masters in something else. I want nothing to do with education after just two years of being in it.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Amen sister! I totally understand! Best of luck to you in finding the best career path! :)

@keciaaskew5166

2 жыл бұрын

Amen 🙏 I wish you nothing but the best of luck 🤞🏽

@thekingofthisworld2154

2 жыл бұрын

I did an MBA after 10 years of teaching HS math. I went into tribal gaming as a revenue auditor and moved up to an accountant position. It can be done my friend!

Spot on. My experience within the teaching profession has been very similar to yours. I would also emphasize that it seems that classroom management skills are valued more than the actual teaching. The government continues to strip responsibility from parents and place them on the k-12 education system.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

So true!!

@owell4427

4 жыл бұрын

Add curriculum that is not age appropriate that a teacher is pressured to meet

@shannonbrown560

4 жыл бұрын

True parents and kids can complain all the time. My evaluations were low this year too but I dont really believe that all principals would grade me so tough.

@margybernard

4 жыл бұрын

One word: Micromanagement! I feel like teachers are parts of an ant farm which purpose is to provide data and entertainment to all of those who put these ridiculous plans into action.

@carolcross_aiexperiement

2 жыл бұрын

Yes it’s crowd control. You are more highly valued for being the teacher that can control the most difficult students.

Teaching sucks so bad that I’m glad to be isolating..that’s how badly I needed a break to catch up on rest and sleep😳

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Lol enjoy your rest; I totally understand!! :)

@TheArtofBree

4 жыл бұрын

SAME T-T I've been doing online work, but I've taken about 3 weeks of sick leave and have been exhausted from trying to fight for my health as we build our back-to-school policies. I've considered quitting teaching, changing grades, and even going into Education Policy instead. I don't know. But too many teachers are hurting

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Bree! :) Thanks for watching and commenting 🙂 I am so sorry to hear you have been having health struggles; I pray that you have a speedy recovery and restful summer. God Bless you!

@georgiamary7428

4 жыл бұрын

Same here!!

@akc1739

4 жыл бұрын

Same

Every person who is considering going into teaching needs to see this. Thanks for your honesty and for accurately describing what teaching looks like in this day and age.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊!

@TheCarnivoreSoprano

2 жыл бұрын

Agreed. I've been binging her channel and my mind has been changed. I. Will. Not. Do. This.

@SarahG266

5 ай бұрын

Same lol

This is soooooo true! You explained our struggles as educators perfectly.

This came at such a perfect time for me. I am a first year teacher, and I KNOW it is supposed to be hard, but everything you listed and more is SO true. Things are getting beyond stressful and unmanageable. :(

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Brenna! I am sorry to hear that you are having a tough first year :( I remember how stressed out and sad I was my first year too (and every year since truthfully lol). I hope things brighten up for you a bit as Spring and Summer get closer and closer; then there will be time to reflect and relax. Just remember, even on your toughest day, you are doing enough, and you ARE enough! :) Don't let anyone tell you any differently! ;) I will say a little prayer for you!

@ms.rainh20teachesart

2 жыл бұрын

Yes I agree. This is my first year teaching and I'm quitting after this semester is over, if not sooner. I HATE IT. I don't even want to wake up in the morning.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

I'm so sorry to hear that, no job is worth that kind of misery 😔 best wishes, friend 🙏 ❤

@pistoffpussycat5778

2 жыл бұрын

@Julie Lourdes Education and teachers are no longer valued and art is certainly no longer valued. All you hear about is STEM and making money

Your video is spot on! I am an English teacher, and I am still in disbelief about not being able to read full texts with students. This is due to the fact that instruction is based on statewide exams and teaching a novel takes away from hitting the standards in time for testing. Thank you for speaking your truth!

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Dee Dee! Thanks for watching and commenting! I'm so glad to know I am not alone in my experiences with teaching English! It's bananas these days!

100% accurate. ALL of the accountability and oversight is on the teacher, with little to none for students and parents. Nothing is going to change because no one cares at the state level, local level, or at home. We'll continue to be treated like cattle and garbage because they are of the opinion we can always be replaced by prospective teachers right out of the university (and they'll pay them even less).

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

So true J Toms!

@akc1739

4 жыл бұрын

J Toms Right. They don’t care, and will try to make us go back to school buildings in the fall when it’s not safe to do so.

@happycook6737

2 жыл бұрын

Yup. I'm 22 years in and have a master's. I get paid $46k. They are now hiring new teachers at $40k. We have no step system so salary doesn't go up over time unless a system wide increase. First raise since 2008 was 1.5%. Not fifteen, one point five!!!!! 😱 Awful, just awful.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Wow that is terrible & shocking 🥺

@misterb1132

2 жыл бұрын

@@akc1739 My district made us go back for silly, small groups of four students last April, in order to qualify for $21 million (supposedly) in Covid funds. Although the district had rushed us through the first vaccination in March, at no cost, it still felt like we were being used. We still had to drive back home and teach half a day with the 27 students who had decided not to return spring of 2021.

Currently experiencing all the above and after this school year I’m done. ✌🏾 I’ve been teaching for 8 years, but my mental health and my own children matter to me. It’s time for me to make some serious changes.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Chantè! Wow I totally understand your decision! I am searching desperately for something else to do next year, but I am not finding much out there, but the pressure & nonsense of teaching is so intense sometimes! Hang in there! :)

@pistoffpussycat5778

2 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy You are very articulate. You would be great at sales or HR...anything where you deal with people.

This is spot on, especially the lack of support from Administration. If kids act up, it is almost always the teacher's fault. We were even told we should give students a few points so that everyone can pass. After 20 years of teaching, I have had it with the lack of organization and micromanagement.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Amen!

Great video! As a former public school teacher, you are right on! I homeschool my own daughter now and teaching is fun again! I wish all education was like homeschooling - freedom, flexibility, more field trips, fun, rigor.....

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I totally agree! Thanks for your kind words!! :)

@margybernard

4 жыл бұрын

I know a couple of public school principals whose children do not attend public school. I wonder why...

Oh my gosh thank you!! The whole broken system is why SOO many of teachers are leaving. The fear that we can't really say what we think for fear of being reprimanded is so draining.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

So true Ben! :)

I had a really hard time my first 2 years teaching. My admin was horrible. They didn't help me. They just threatened me with being let go. I left that school and now work with a great admin team. Such a different experience.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Nate! I am so glad that you were able to find a better teaching situation! :) It is true, admin can make all the difference for better or worse.

@lauribretthauer9746

2 жыл бұрын

Love to know how you switched!

@doesntmatter2505

2 жыл бұрын

@@lauribretthauer9746 I kept my head down at the school that o hated. And when the year was over I found a new school.

Why cant I like this more than once? This is my first year, and I am so disappointed in myself for choosing this career path.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Jynelle, sorry to hear that you're having a rough first year. :( I can totally relate! I hope you're able to find a good career fit in the future whether that be in teaching or elsewhere. Good luck and God Bless! :)

@nvalles2565

2 жыл бұрын

For the last 6 yrs I find myself telling anyone wanting to go into teaching that they don’t want to go into it. To sum it up, it’s a social system now not an educational system. Everything she is saying is exactly right and for those of us who do what’s right DO get a visit from admin saying to use the curriculum. Today’s curriculum is so watered down I believe most students will come out unprepared. Students even buck that I want them to learn to manage a planner every day.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

I totally agree with you 💯

@paigeherrin29

2 жыл бұрын

Same

@happycook6737

2 жыл бұрын

Get OUT now. I stayed thinking it would get better, I could make lemonade out of lemons, etc. It has gotten much, much worse. Now I must stay because need retirement pay.

Thank you for speaking so eloquently about education. I have taught for 22 years and I concur with everything you stated. I too am one of those teachers who would change professions if not nearing the end of my career. I do love the actual teaching component, but that is one small fraction of being a teacher anymore. It’s so disheartening that our society has allowed this to progress to great teachers leaving this time honored profession.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I totally agree Sonia! Thanks for your 22 years of service; that is amazing! You are a saint! :)

I literally nodded my head yes to all of these. You are absolutely correct and it’s scary. Also the constant scrutiny from admin and stressful/unfair observations.

I started teaching high school 11 years and I had been teaching college for the past 6 yrs. This year I returned to teaching High school and so much has changed for the worse. From what I am gathering from other teachers it is systematic. You are spot on with all of your points. Everything that we should do for the students to provide a high quality education we can’t.

You hit on so many issues and most of them I was somewhat familiar with prior to joining the profession. Even still, the general lack of student motivation at times and the engagement charade was eye opening for me. The fact that a student can just show up to class, put forth minimal effort with no consequences from the school or home is baffling. And as far as engagement that's truly all about appearances at this point. They want to see a show. Its all a performance, never mind the quality of the lesson or whether the students are retaining the information. If its a lesson that "looks good" on video, then you're good.

You forgot to mention how we are expected to take from our own sad, little salaries to supply our classrooms.

All this is not only frustrating but is resulting I'm adults without critical thinking skills. See this in adult education all the time. As a nursing instructor spent way too much time trying to teach basic problem solving skills. This is scary when you consider that nurses need critical thinking skills as their basic core strength.

Bingo! You are right on target. I retired after 31 years and the changes I saw/experienced in the last 15 were ridiculous. People are calling the shots who have never taught, never taught your age range, or hated teaching so they went back and got an administrative degree.

Everything you mentioned is SPOT ON. I’ve often thought that the treatment we get is due in large part to most of us being female. In 11 years of teaching I’ve had to take three one to three-year breaks from it. Bad for my health. I love working with youth (I’m in EC) but there’s so much bs to deal with these days. It can be quite soul and joy-sucking.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I totally understand where you're coming from! Teaching has been hard on my mental & physical health too, and my #1 goal this year will be staying healthy & taking care of myself for sure 👍 I hope you have a good upcoming year if you are still teaching 😊

@akc1739

4 жыл бұрын

Teacher Therapy Yes, ma’am! Going back and I’m so glad to have another year with my inclusion kids. I loop up with them...started as sixth graders and now will be 8th. With all that’s transpired, we really need each other. Best of luck to you, too. I was so glad to find you online 🙏👍❤️

@misterb1132

2 жыл бұрын

That's exactly what I stated to my Principal Friday during my Evaluation meeting, where I got to stare in shock at an unfair Observation report, and I have been giving it my all at my elementary for 27 years in 5th & 6th grade. I said, "This job slowly takes your soul. We are constantly being pressed down and crushed by the media, politicians, neighborhood committees, school boards, the public. Doesn't it sound great?

Our kids are not allowed to get any grade less than 50%. They don't do any work at all because they know they will get 50%. Even if they don't turn in the worksheet or do anything on a test, it's all 50% no matter what.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Wow that's bananas 😕

@anthonyfletcher8053

Жыл бұрын

That’s still an F though right?

@marcmeinzer8859

4 ай бұрын

Isn’t 50% supposed to be a failing grade since it’s less than 60%? At any rate, I have always maintained that even conventional grading on a 4 point scale is meaningless in the sense that grades only matter if the kids care about their grades. Social promotion has removed the humiliation of being kept back a year. Which pretty much proves that teaching is only babysitting.

All of these reasons are the reason a friend of mine has transitioned into university teaching. While there are a lot of issues at that level as well, he hopes to use the freedom university professors get in their teaching to change the k-12 system a bit. He recently told me about a situation where nearly an entire class had never received a failing grade in the entire experience in high school. He said when he failed that many people on so many assignments that he got many students complaining to the dean only to find out that they would still receive the failing grades due to lack of competence. This in my opinion must be a huge reality check for those students. I myself am going into teaching Spanish and ESOL soon and hopefully I will have a positive experience. From all the input of other teachers, I am being very selective where I teach my first year at least and teacher development being at the top. Thankfully I have found a district that has this and many teachers telling me they love working there and the administration being extremely supportive. However, obtaining employment there with other teachers who have a lot of experience is hard even with me going in at the master's degree level.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

I hope everything goes well for you! It's really good that your going into teaching knowing what to expect so that you can make a good selection & advocate for yourself ❤

All that you said is SO true! I began teaching 21 yrs ago and it has changed so much and not for the better. I've loved teaching my pk kids and their age has allowed me to not have to deal with a lot of these other things. I am so happy to be at the end of my teaching career bc it seems to get worse and worse in all the ways that you mentioned. It still makes me mad to hear people talk about teaching like it is SO easy. THEY HAVE NO IDEA! God bless all of you who want to make a difference in a system that makes it near impossible. This was so well said. I applaud you for this bc it's something that my coworkers and I talk about bc we are all we have when it comes to support. If you are teaching, hang on and support each other bc that can make all the difference. 💗

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Melinda! Thanks so much for watching and commenting! :) I'm glad that working with younger kids has been a rewarding experience for you. I have never taught lower than 4th grade & sometimes wonder what it would be like to teach younger kiddos, although I don't know if I have the patience needed! It is amazing that you have taught for 21 years; that is incredible! I hope the next several years of teaching are peaceful and enjoyable for you! I bet it is a nice feeling to have the end in sight though! I totally agree about the need for teachers to support one another. It always makes me sad when teachers are encouraged to compete with one another because no one quite knows how hard the job is besides another teacher. :) God Bless!!

@melindasalinas1821

4 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy I was lucky enough to be at a primary school with only pk and k. I even was teaching 3 yr olds for 6 yrs (loved it!). I am blessed to have taught pk and k for that long. I have seen how they move teachers at elementary schools every year, never giving them time to tweak or improve. That's also a big problem. I have subscribed to your channel now that I have found you. Thank you for your channel. We all need teachers like you helping other teachers. ❤😉👏👏👏

Thank you for highlighting the teacher bullying! People really misunderstand bullying.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely ❤

Oh my, you are an amazing honest teacher. Keep the truth flowing. Everything you said is true 100%. I’ve been in the game twenty plus years and it has been going down hill since 1990. Kids don’t care because parents don’t care, or there isn’t any form of a consequence in the school or the home. When you get those kids you gotta kill them with kindness and show them how to be better humans. Imagine parents these are the people your creating to take care of you when your old.....scared yet? You should be if you blame, shame, and mistreat the person who is with your kid 7 to 8 hours a day.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mickey! :) True words!!

I'm a BIG fan of your channel. Thank you for saying everything I THINK, every day!

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊 💓

ALL of these! Even overseas, it's the same problems. I often joke that you could pick any point on a map (aside from the ocean), walk into any school and talk to any teacher, and you'll see and hear all of the same problems. Teachers are grossly taken for granted and exploited by the Education System. I absolutely believe things will have to give eventually (maybe after the pandemic situation we'll realize???), but it will still take time and we (teachers) are up against some very powerful stakeholders in the broken system.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I hope the system changes too 🙏 we are losing so many great teachers because the job is nearly impossible & the cost is high in mental and physical health too often 😢

Truthfully, this is now happening in the preschool where I work. I place at least 20 hours a week prepping my classroom while during the weekend. I do not have the privilege of working fully to the extent needed to build up my classroom necessary.

You wrote about my life as a first year teacher in the year kids came back after two years of stunted growth in every way! The students and teachers are being held to pre-Covid standards, which is flat-out impossible to meet. This year should not be treated as a standard year in any way. Kids needed to relearn social skills, appropriate behavior, respect for teachers, and meeting expectations. I think I chose one the worst years to enter this field, because I didn’t get to apply anything I learned or planned. I’m too busy teaching kids how to be students again. And you are so right about changes made mid-year, and new policies that don’t make sense and are poorly communicated- often off the record vs documented in writing - like being highly “encouraged” to pass every student, even though the kids know and won’t do anything because they know they don’t have to.

@misterb1132

2 жыл бұрын

Your comment is very insightful and mature for one just entering their teaching career. But, to be honest, students haven't had as much respect for teachers since about 2005, in my opinion. I am 27 years into upper elementary and behavior and attention span is more of a daily challenge every year.

Everything you said was spot on and so true. Have experienced every point that you mentioned. Just trying to hang in there for a few more years. Appreciate hearing your perspectives.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Jodi! I'm glad to know that I'm not alone in my thoughts, but also sad that these difficult teaching experiences are so common. Thanks for watching and commenting! :)

You have described teaching beautifully. I see posts from teachers who use lessons over and over but because of the constant changing of priorities, sometimes I feel like I don't know what I am doing tomorrow. I no longer feel effective in my planning...start down a path and someone will give you a different directive. The left hand does not know what the right hand is doing---a lot. You have hit so many bullet points of the profession.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Colleen! :)

I’m so glad I found your videos on KZread. You have provided the encouragement I need. Thank you.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad these videos have been helpful! 🤗

I start my student teaching in the fall! I'm excited because i've spent so many hours in the classroom during the course of my degree path and i really really enjoy being with the students and in the classroom! Though I have noticed a lot of stress from my mentor teachers (probably from a lot of the issues you mentioned) I'm excited but also very nervous to get my own classroom very soon! It should be a crazy ride, I like watching these types of videos so I don't go in completely blind! Thank you!

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I am so excited for you Haileyy! I bet you will do a fantastic job, and you won't be caught by suprise which will help you be even more prepared 😀! I love it! Blessings on your student teaching experience 🙏

You have pretty much nailed it. I entered the profession in 1974 and even back then the cracks in the system were becoming evident. However, from what I have witnessed now, after doing relief work in approximately 20 different schools, the dam is on the verge of breaking. Lack of interest on the part of the students and indescribably bad class room behaviour with no means of discipline at the teacher’s disposal, are the two biggest obstacles to any effective teaching taking place in the schools today.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing your experiences Susette! It is interesting to know that there were issues in education in the 70's too. I can't imagine how many changes you have seen in that time span. I totally agree that discipline & motivation are massive challenges in education today, especially since teachers are so limited in what they can do to motivate/challenge students. I hope things will get better 🙏

@happycook6737

2 жыл бұрын

Yes!

I worked 5 years in an elementary school in Costa Rica. Even though, it's a different country, the issues and experiences you mentioned are exactly the same. Great informational video. Specially for those who want to be teachers and have no idea what they are getting into

@TeacherTherapy

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! 🥰

@marinlos

Жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy thank YOU 🤗

My Teacher Sista Friend!! Hallelujah for speaking the truth about your teaching experiences and your Bravery for sharing this vital truthful information!! Everything You said I’ve experienced as well as an educator! We both left the school systems at the same time! I left in April 2021 as well. I retired!! I had more than enough! It was total madness and chaos! Whether teaching virtually or in a brick and mortar, teaching and teachers are suffering, but our students are suffering most! (I have received a letter from the school system I retired from to return because teachers are so desperately needed!!) At the present time I’m enrolled in a tech class. The instructor has directions that’s so confusing I now find myself so confused every day in attendance of this class! Today I was brave enough and fed up enough to step away from the computer because I will no longer allow anyone else to stress me out because they believe everyone have the same learning style(s)!! From this experience with this instructor I want to return to the classroom to support our students who learn like me! I’m not getting what’s being taught and neither are our students who desperately come to school to learn in spite of the school systems, power hungry administrators, constant changing curriculum, and the disruptive behaviors of their classmates! We educators need to band together to let our voices be heard! Trust me, there will definitely be a teacher shortage very soon! I’m extremely Interested in seeing how they plan to solve this problem! Take Care! Continue to speak the truth and thanks again for your Bravery!! I will continue to follow you speak out about this toxic, soon to vanish profession!

Amen to the heaping guilt. I get that everyone can improve, but I am very tired of everything being the teachers’ faults. I feel think staff is the only variable in the job administration can control, so almost all professional development is about things teachers need to change. It would be nice to hear what we do well more often.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

I totally agree 👍

I dont understand those parents. My kid would need to answer to me if hes acting up in class.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

You rock Cassandra! :) Teachers are soooooo grateful for supportive parents like you!

@branzfactor81

3 жыл бұрын

We need more parents like you

I recently discovered your channel. Thank you so much for making these videos - very transparent and helpful !!

Oh man. I'm sorry for you. I have not had the same experience at all, and can't imagine life without the connections and growth teaching has given me. Hope you find what you seek...

I understand the argument about parents that question everything, but viewing teaching as a parent it’s with looki into why those that question are asking. What questions are they asking. For me I managed to uncover many errors by teachers and admin that either show blatantly complete disregard of policy or lack of knowledge of what it even says. I have had a teacher try to override policy, commit a FERPA violation, or just state that because she doesn’t have enough copies, she doesn’t have to clarify bad or fuzzy images for students ahead of time. This year I had to go through a six week debate over why homework is necessary. Why was it necessary? I am viewed as a difficult parent for wanting the basics from the teacher/campus. I am in no means saying my child is a saint and deserving of all hundreds on her assignments. I have actually had to fight for accurate grading. What I mean by that is that I was not accepting a 70 when my kid failed an assignment. Why am I being asked to accept mediocrity? Why is it okay for my child to put in less effort and still pass? I know I am nit the typical parent and I will be a little more critical because I have experience in the field. But goodness gracious why is the profession degrading to accept mediocrity from the children I. Academics and behavior? Why is bad behavior not dealt with with a proper consequence and a report home so I can address and reinforce? I have to fight for these things just to make sure there is structure and progress in my CHild’s learning program…..

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

We are grateful for awesome parents like you who care about their children & will hold them accountable too. ❤

I just want to thank you so much for your entire channel. I’ve watched most of your videos, and I’ve experienced everything that you’ve described in this first year of teaching. Lack of support, not holding students accountable, unclear expectations, Toxic work environment etc. I love teaching but I’m not sure if this profession is for me. Hopefully I can find a place that is more nurturing.

Well said! Yes, I experienced it all. Lasted two years. I would not accept how teachers are treated - and students, as well.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I totally understand! Thanks for watching and commenting! :)

It’s all down-hill from here😭like fr. I genuinely feel that in this day and age, being in an education profession is not worth it. It’s all a lose-lose situation because you really are powerless. I wish I could’ve done it years ago before it was this bad. 😩

Yes, you described my experience as a teacher. Fortunately, it was not my experience at every school, but definitely my experience at public schools. I’m a PBIS Coach now, but this field is exhausting on every level. I’m brainstorming ways to motivate staff and students to keep giving it their best. It’s such hard work, but we can’t give up.

Everything you just said. Yep. Thank you for having the courage to post this while you are still teaching.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Erica! :)

Imagine that I'm watching you from Algeria and I feel every single word u said and it's completely true , I'm also a teacher I choose it because I love it but I discovered it's a horrible thing , sadly I need to work and in Algeria we face problems in finding jobs and my family aren't supportive no luck , I'm 23 years old now and I fee so sad and depressed life is hard on us .

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing! It's amazing that our experiences are so similar around the world. I'm sending you hugs from across the globe ❤

I left teaching 8 years ago after teaching elementary school for 11 years. I still have bad dreams.☹️

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Kristen!! What job did you take after teaching if I may ask? :)

Great points. Im very skeptical about applying for a teaching program in NYC call teaching fellow. I do want to give teaching a shot and see how I handle it. I do want to teach. Im a sub para at the moment and I see how the kids behave.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

It is definitely worth a try, especially if you already work in the school system and have a snapshot of what it is like. If the teachers are open to it, maybe you could ask some of them about their experiences and see what they say? I know some teachers love the job in spite of its difficulties! :) Best of luck to you!!

I had a 5th grade student that would call me the N word and his slave on a regular bases and upper administration did NOT CARE. Just stuff like that + what you’ve said in this video is why I quit. I’m going back to school for nursing! At least it’s respected and the starting salary is 2x my teacher salary!!! I’m looking into being a nursing school instructor and in my area they make 6 figures, so I’ll still be teaching but it will be a totally different environment!

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Wow Lauren, so sorry to hear about the horrible things you went through ☹ . But your new plan sounds amazing!! Best of luck to you on your new journey! :)

Hi, I know this is an old video, but I wanted to let you know that your videos have been a huge help for me. I recently quit my teaching job after only a year and some change. Everything you're saying rings true, and I feel vindicated in my choice to leave. It's been hard, but at least I know I'm not alone in this.

@TeacherTherapy

Жыл бұрын

I'm so glad they have been helpful! 🥰❤💕

My last year of teaching was in 2013. Classroom management was very difficult towards the end of my teaching career. Our school had 23 teachers leave in 2013. The students were so out of control with no support from administrators or parents. The unruly students made it difficult for the learning process to occur. My job got harder and harder and I analyzed that what changed the most in education is what walked into my classroom.( i.e. the students) I had to leave for my own mental health!

@carollee6963

Жыл бұрын

I only made it for 11 years. I told myself that if I teach one more year I would probably have a heart attack. My body could sense the stress that I was under. Best decision I ever made!

@TeacherTherapy

Жыл бұрын

I'm so glad you were able to exit the profession before it claimed your health! ❤ I hope things are better for you now, friend! 🤗

@carollee6963

Жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy I'm retired so things are wonderful 😊😊😊

@TeacherTherapy

Жыл бұрын

Awesome!! 🥰

Thanks for making this video! I’m in college and I just finished my 2 year AA in elementary education and was planning on continuing with my bachelors in elementary education, but I have heard a lot of negatives from those who have been in the profession and from videos from former teachers on why they quit. I heard the average teacher stays in their teaching career for only 5 years. It makes me nervous if I should continue or pick something else.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Julia, thanks for watching! I totally understand how you feel; it is definitely a hard career, but the more you know going in the better! :) If it fits in your schedule it could be helpful for you to do some substitute teaching for experience. I definitely think teaching is a calling, and if your heart is prepared for some of the nonsense, you will do great! :) Blessings on your future career decisions, and I'm here if you ever have questions!

@casebeth

2 жыл бұрын

I would choose something else. You deserve a happy life.

@ratnasanyal1774

2 жыл бұрын

Choose something else while you have the chance. I would do that in a heartbeat if I had the chance.

I feel like if I say anything then my license and job would be threatened.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

I totally understand! It is super risky to speak up for most teachers sadly! I have seen certain people get away with it and other people become a target for speaking up. It definitely helps to know how your admin will respond. Sometimes unions or anonymous surveys can help if your school sends them or even an anonymous letter? But I totally get not wanting to for concern of retaliation. :/

Keep up the good work! I've taught music for many years. It's a nightmare today. Nothing like the past.

I’m here in Ohio , retired military and considering substitute teaching to help with the shortage. I’ve been watching these teacher videos and my mind is blown. I had no idea. It seems in many industries folks aren’t happy. I retired from the army after 23 years and similar things. Doing more with less people and resources, bureaucracy, red tape, politics, poor leadership and management and list goes on. After 23 years enough was enough of the silliness. Perhaps I won’t do substituting. From all these videos it seems the whole educational system needs overhauled. As a military man I’m a problem solver. Gather the information; listen to people, and makes things better.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

You are wise to view teaching videos before diving in! It is interesting because I have met a few subs who genuinely love it, but I've also met many who are deeply discouraged. The nice thing about subbing is that you can choose which grade levels & schools to work in, and you can get a taste for the teaching world without feeling trapped if you don't like it, so it could be an interesting adventure 😊, but if your gut tells you no after watching these videos then I would run for the hills and never look back! 😄

@happycook6737

2 жыл бұрын

Look, the principals all think they are great. The kids won't work and are disgustingly disrespectful and expect to never be failed gradewise. Parents are either screaming Karens or completely disengaged and blame shifting. Your performance will be 1)Have you ever bothered the office with a kid's behavior? Then you FAIL, 2) Did a colleague ever complain about you? You FAIL, 3) Did a parent ever complain about you? You FAIL. 4) Are you popular with the students? You WIN. It is horribly unfair and has nothing to do with true student learning. It is a big mess. Parents, students have way too much power and teachers aren't respected as professionals. We got an ex-military. He was fired because the snowflake, helicopter parented kids complained he was too harsh. (Sarcasm)"We can't have anyone damaging little Karens' and Kens' self-esteem, can we?". I personally thought he was awesome but no one cares about other teacher opinions. The only career more toxic than teaching is nursing. Good luck. Remember to make change you gotta get in first and build alliances. Schools are highly political entities and the power brokers may NOT be readily obvious. Often school secretaries have a lot of quiet power so cuddle up to them and the janitor for sure.

@jimb3093

2 жыл бұрын

@@happycook6737 thank you for the information, it is much appreciated.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Wow, you described teaching perfectly! The politics is the most shocking part for most 🥺

@happycook6737

2 жыл бұрын

@@tvismyfriend8331 I spoke to Clark County at a hiring fair. I got a bad feeling from them. I couldn't pinpoint it but just on a gut level.

As an retired high school teacher of 25 years experience, the bad behavior today seems to be related to the invention of the smart- phone: smaller attention span and more radical behavior in students.

Hello I love what you just said how it is said that the kids are good ..they say. But if the teachers are struggling with classroom management ..it is our fault. I had a tough year with parents. I received negative letters from parents. I am blamed for the kids leaving this year. My heart hurts so much.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Shannon! Sorry to hear that you had a tough year with parents, students, and admin. :( I can totally relate unfortunately. It's good to know were not alone for sure. Stay strong and thanks for watching! I will say a little prayer for you :)

Extremely well said and honest commentary on teaching! This is my first year back from teaching abroad and I can't. This pandemic definitely added another layer as well.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much!!! I agree 100%. The pandemic made teaching a nightmare for me! I am so glad it is over and hope we don't have to do online stuff again next year!

It's called denial--- that we're mentally stuck and we really think we'll get out of the profession sooner than later.

You are awesome!!! Happy I found this channel.

Amen to everything you said! Thank you for posting this video.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome 😊

Maybe you can do a video on how current teachers are surviving in the messed up system. These teachers believe the system is messed up and do they really believe what they do right now is helping the students to be successful. How do they keep their morals and sanity in check with all the wrongs the system is doing in damaging the kid?

You expressed it beautifully. I retired from teaching three years ago. I just started to sub and I am stunned by students lack of respect for adults and the work ethic. I am praying for our future.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Absolutely 💯 I thought about subbing too, but kids can be so disrespectful to subs. Bless you for continuing to work with young people though 🙏 All those seeds you plant each day are making a difference 💕

You are spot on! Thanks for sharing!

Hats off to everybody who left for mental health reasons. This profession turns you into a drinker or psychiatric drug user.

@poogissploogis

Жыл бұрын

When I grew up, I learned that most of my grade school teachers were heavy drinkers and partyers, I finally understand why.

@earlgarcia6106

Жыл бұрын

So you’re saying those are bad things….

@user-ns7xr5fq1i

Жыл бұрын

That's exactly what's happening to me. I left school but still work in education. I'm thinking about career change until it's too late

@grumpygranny724

Жыл бұрын

True!

@godsunrelentinglove

Жыл бұрын

@@user-ns7xr5fq1i preach it!!

Thank you! So much Truth!! All the best from the Netherlands, where the situation isn't much different, unfortunately. (although we are paid better and don't have active shooter drills) *following*

I really want to change career but finding it hard to change careers with a degree in education. Can anyone give me some advice.

@sonyaberry9805

2 жыл бұрын

This comment is late, but look up the job title "direct support associate" and see if you would be interested in that.

So sad to learn that you did not make it to nine years - but I understand. I'm just in my third year and one of the bigger issues as I see it is that administration is overwhelmed and the legal requirements and mandates generally suck the life out of teaching. A huge amount of all the paperwork to document the education requirements is just busy work - mindlessly accumulated and signed off on without much consideration of achieving anything other than keeping attorneys happy and equally busy with mindless reports. Meanwhile good students are left behind.

Hillsdale Academy (MI) is a tremendous private school… a school for the learners. I heartily encourage anyone on the verge of giving up on the profession to set up a visit to see what a school can and should be. I spent a day there on a scheduled visit while students were in session and it utterly changed my expectations and outlook on what education should be about

You are exactly right about everything you say! I feel validated!

I was trying to comment on your part 2. You spell out everything very well.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you 😊

I’m not a teacher but my sister-in-law is a teacher and my mom subbed for years and is a library assistant. Definitely have heard some stories! Love your content! 💗

Incredibly comprehensive! I retired after 17 years as a teacher of students with special needs. These issues, I might add, have been voiced for 2 decades and have festered to the point of a gangrenous profession. Thank goodness that social media is allowing your voice to reach the masses so that perhaps change will come. I will end by saying it would take 3 to 4 people working full time to actually fulfill the requirements of the job. No exaggeration!

Thanks 4 the videos yes Respect & kindness is what missing in the world is did not knew teaching that hard I like 2 thank teachers 4 teaching my child THANK YOU!❤🍎🍏

I too am in an alternate certification pathway and am finishing up my second year. Everything you've said resonates.

Also. When I was teaching I had a class room where 5-6 of my kids spoke little to no English. I had no help in that classroom at the beginning and at the end of the year. I had to beg for a Spanish speaking adult and when I got one. He was only in there for a few months. It was very frustrating and one of the bigger reasons I quit.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Wow, I had a similar situation this year except out of 70+ kids 14+ could speak no English and it was very hard! This was my 1st time encountering that challenge and I felt so bad for not being able to do more 😞

When my sister taught 5th grade she is teaching 3rd this year and will likely move to sixth next year, but when she taught 5th grade for two years the district has a policy that even though they give letter grades to 4th and 5th graders no student can make below a sixty on an assignment. As a result my sister literally took a lot of extra time grading papers and had the Ms. P grading scale because she said I am NOT going to give a child who actually got 60% correct the same grade I am FORCED to give the student that did not turn the assignment in. Next year will be her 4th year of teaching so as you can see he is young (in her mid 20s.

Thank you! So true!

Almost went into education, thankfully didn't. I'll defend the kids here (I know, everyone defends the kids). They are a product of the environment around them. I think a big part of why these kids are having such problems is their parents are probably overworked themselves. Having parents at home for more than an hour or two before the kids have to go to bed and actually having weekends with them makes an enormous difference. On top of that, the parents can't get leave to go to the school and deal with problems they're being told about. Unfortunately, this all shows up in the classroom. This new surge in unionization and worker's rights will hopefully allow parents to be parents for their kids. In the meantime, I think kids should have grades, but ideally a chance for remediation (like grad school). If you want to move to the next level, we have to go over these weaknesses in your understanding of the material. Hard to do that when you have a moving target from admin and no time, but that's the ideal. Finally, why the hell aren't colleges preparing administrators to be better leaders and give push back? What the hell is going on with training at the top? Sure, elected leaders are unqualified, but admin should be, and defend their teachers. It's become more of a CEO position, where they just do performative tasks for the sake of the salary, but nothing that actually helps.

To all teachers who want to quit here are a few things I want to say: 1. You have options. I'm going back to school next year for a business degree. But I'm going back to retail for a while, and it's OK. Just know it's not too late to start over. 2. The kids will be fine. You will miss them but know they are stronger than you think. 3. Your health comes first. Don't let them guilt you into something you no longer want to do. You do have rights. 4. A teacher told me don't do more than you have to. Save your energy in the meantime. If it can wait, put a pin in it. 5. You have options. Don't be afraid to look elsewhere. 6. Last but not least, you have more skills from teaching than you think. People skills, computer skills, training in human resources and organization skills plus more skills. Believe me, other places will want you. Just wanted to say that to you all.

Here's a would you rather question. Would you rather have legislation and policy brought back that allows for students/parents to actually be held accountable in regards to behavior and grades? (Real discipline for actions) Or.... Would you rather have an increase in teacher wage and mental health support? I would choose the first.

@TeacherTherapy

4 жыл бұрын

Hi Ben! I would love for parents to be supportive of what teachers do in the classroom both academically and behaviorally for sure! I think the breakdown in parenting has created a crisis in society, and public servants like teachers and police are left to clean up the mess while simultaneously being vilified and unsupported from all directions. Great question!! :)

@josephjacobshagen5108

4 жыл бұрын

I would choose both of them personally.

@HighVibeTeaching

4 жыл бұрын

Ben Marshall I would choose the first

@margybernard

4 жыл бұрын

I'd choose the first. I'd even take a paycut to help make it happen.

@pistoffpussycat5778

2 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy Yes! I felt like what they put cops through these last few years was like how they treat teachers. Yes, there are always a few bad apples, but don't villify a whole vocation. It is evil;the attack on law enforcement and educators

in the 80's almost all of us were genuinely scared of teachers. The kids who were never scared? The badass who thought he could do whatever he wanted? They grew up to be losers.

I’m 2 and half years through a history major and teaching certification, so it’s nice to hear about the problems I’ll face in advance!

I'm really sorry to hear you went through this as a teacher. You seem so sweet. Those kids who bullied you fail to see what a caring teacher you are. You really do present yourself as a teacher with high expectations for students. It's unfortunate how the bar seems to be lowering throughout the years. These lower expectations aren't doing anyone any real favors. Thank you for your efforts! I just recently discovered your channel & just wanted to say thank you for sharing your experience with others and for expressing honesty. I appreciate you being 'real'. This video made me think about toxic positivity . . . It's good to be positive, but it's also not good to be dishonest with yourself & others, or to deny your true feelings or the actual stressful reality of being a teacher. You're a very eloquent speaker and I hope things have been better for you.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for your kind & supportive words! ❤ I feel so much relief after leaving the teaching profession! I think my personality must not have been a good mix for today's educational system. It's nice not to have continual stress 🤗

@krystal5z

2 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy Awhh I'm glad to hear that. I still have student teaching pending, but even just with tutoring as a part time job now during the pandemic, I have my moments of thinking 'this is not for me'. I have even more appreciation for teachers because there are times in which I have not really liked some parents, & some students really lack motivation and discipline. There's really been so many problems I've seen in education in general (not to mention poor parenting! I think parents forget they have the biggest roles to play for their child's education) I really like your points & think technology & lack of values & different factors have really messed up these next generations [ not everyone, but I've seen more disrespect these last few years]. I do believe technology is a great tool, but it is also really negative in certain ways and 'dumbifying' society. It's too distracting and often shallow. May I ask what you are doing now? I've been trying to think of alternatives, or what to do if teaching doesn't work out for me. Even just tutoring can be really draining, so it really worries me... I don't know how I'd cope being a teacher full time.

@TeacherTherapy

2 жыл бұрын

I agree 100%! ❤ I'm actually not working at all at the moment which is different for sure, but wonderful lol I'm considering going back to school to be a counselor! I also signed up for some life coaching certification classes too. I know I want to help people in some capacity, but I'm still not sure what the best route is 😊 Best wishes on your journey!

@krystal5z

2 жыл бұрын

@@TeacherTherapy Thank you so much! You too! Best wishes! Oh, that's great news (: That's very important work. Being a counselor would be nice. You'd still be helping others on a personal level & it would feel rewarding. 😊 I understand you though. It isn't easy knowing what path to take. Maybe you can take a gap year if you can or haven't yet, or try to explore your options somehow. Counseling sounds wonderful though, & it looks to be flexible (well, depending on different factors, but it can be flexible).