To Teach or Not to teach?

Question

I quit a teaching job four months ago, at the end of the term, after only two months on the job. This was the first time I had ever quit a teaching job; and I did so because the school had no discipline, was in an isolated community, and I found it too stressful.

No, I am torn about whether or not I should teach or not again. I have been teaching, on and off, for nine years. I do find it very stressful but also love it. I feel like it is my calling, but I also go through a lot of anxiety about it.

I am tired of talking about this to my husband and family. I am tired of thinking about it. I thought I would give up teaching forever, but something keeps drawing me back.

I guess what it is, is that I really seem to reach the kids in my classroom, because I care about them. I have such a heart for the kids in my class, and love encouraging them. And I feel like I am making a difference.

But I stress out from feeling inadequate to do the job.

Thanks for any advice ....

Answer 1

If you really like teaching do it... But set it straight at your interviews that you ar all about discipline

Answer 2

Teaching is a 'VERY STRESSFUL' field to go into.  It is also a 'VERY REWARDING' field.  I have been teaching 26 years and every year gets harder and harder....stress wise.  I love teaching but also can't wait until each break to revamp.

It is very normal to be stressed and not know what to do.  I don't know a teacher any where that could honestly tell you teaching is an easy job.  It isn't!  Plain and simple....it is extremely stressful but the kids need us.  I tell my kids they will be my kids forever...not just the year they are in my class.  And I mean it.  I made a My Space page last summer and my Friends list is mostly kids I have taught through the years.  It is so rewarding to have them invite me as their friend.  I LOVE seeing pictures of their families and reading their accomplishments.

I feel very blessed to have had the oportunity to be a teacher.  Somedays....most days....I can hardly get out of the bed (I'm not a morning person)...but once I get to school and start getting my hugs and I love you Ms. Dee...I'm glad I chose to get up and have a blessed day.  :):):)

A.S.A.P.   Always Say A Prayer

He is listening and will answer.

Love, Bear Hugs & Angel Kisses,

Ms. Dee

Answer 3

I would have to agree that teaching is a very stressful job, and I have only been teaching for 5 years (this august will start year  6). I completly understand where you are coming from about discipline, and unfortunatly there is not magic answer because as you probably already know each class is different from year to year so what worked one year may not work the next. You have to start the year explaining your expectations and discipline procedures to your class. I was always told while going to school to get my teaching degree not to smile until December, but that is almost impossible especially when you have a class full of students hugging you. I have not followed the no smiling advise, but I do stress to my class about how important discipline is. I also tell the parents of my students what I expect as far as behavior and consequences.  

Good luck in whatever it is you decide....

Answer 4

You obviously have a gift to share, and I think it is wise of you to take time to reflect on where to share it. Have you tried a retreat to get away from your usual routine and look at your gift from a different location? Have you prayed, if you believe in pray? There is nothing wrong with taking a break to determine when and if you will return to teaching and under what conditions. I hope you find an answer that gives you resolution and peace. Blessings.