This Ball and Chain
I am leaving education. It was definitely hard for me to realize how much this profession drains you. The long hours separate from contract hours with no compensation; the professional development I sign up for because it's "for the kids" with no compensation; the pointless trainings that could be sent through email, the repetitive trainings required every year to take even though I took it the year prior; the lack of respect from students and parents; and administration who praise the same people every year. I have worked so hard in this profession for the last 4 years. I've spent countless hours researching how to make my lessons more authentic. Yes, I've used ideas from other teachers because I only have so many hours in my day to develop one lesson plan. I've spent thousands of dollars and most of the time it goes unused or the kids lose interest. It's time for me to take care of me. It's time for me to be there for the people I truly love in this ...