Throwing in the subsheet

Hi all -

Awhile back I was on here complaining about my substitute-teaching job.  Sherrine, I remember your stories about when you used to do it, and you made the comment that it's too stressful for us now.  I agreed - and kept on doing it (although very rarely.) 

Well, after today, I really am quitting.  When I started, 10 years ago, I really felt I was giving the kids something good.  Now we use this awful scripted literacy program, only teaching them to pass a stupid test.      I DESPISE it (and so does every teacher and student in this district.  Colorado is 50th in educational spending - 'nough said?)  Naturally, the kids are out of control,     and I CANNOT BE the one to get them back in!!  I finally realized my body can't handle it, and whatever measly income I'm getting from it will probably end up costing me in extra medical bills in one form or another from all the stress. 

Kind of sad, because I do love the kids.  But it's a totally different animal today, and unfortunately, so am I....  on to new adventures!

Debbie       

I can completely sympathize and empathize. I am also a teacher. I have other health issues, so I took an aide's position, thinking I could handle that better, but then I had to have major surgery and was unable to continue with that.

Then a couple of years later (after the fibro diagnosis), I started substitute teaching. That lasted about a year, but I couldn't deal with the pain, exhaustion, and stress. I am an Elementary school teacher, and it is so incredibly physically and emotionally demanding.

I'm sorry you are having to stop. I love teaching and working with children too, but the discipline/management just got to be too much for me. I agree, it is a totally different animal today than when I started 20 years ago.

I hope you find something else you love doing that brings you lots of fullfillment and, of course, a paycheck!

Hugs - Austen

Sometimes you just have to let go of things, Debbie.  You are correct in saying the little you are paid probably will go to medical bills because of the stress.  Teaching isn't easy these days. 

 

Since you really love children, do you think you could become a Big Sister through the Big Brothers organization?  You would spend several hours a week with a child that doesn't have much guidence or opportunity to do something pleasant.  Just a simple picnic would be a joy to them.  I don't know if your health would allow that but, if it would, that could fill in some of the void you are feeling right now and really help out a child.  Just a suggestion.....

 

Another idea would be to tutor.  You could take on one or two children, help them, and earn a few bucks. 

 

Sherrine

Debbie, As always Sherrine has an excellent idea!!! A good friend of mine gives German lessons in her home to a few select few. And there are always kids that need extra help and you could pick and choose.

Tutoring sounds wonderful, Sherrine, but since I've never been a "real" teacher, I doubt I anyone would pay me to do it. The volunteering idea I like, though. I'll have to look into that.

Thanks everyone for the good thoughts...when one door closes, as they say!...

Debbie