While I'm not exactly "newly-minted" anymore (as in my previous blog post), I haven't exactly finished my first whole year of teaching. It was more like a half year. Do I regret resigning? Not one bit. In fact, I think it was the best decisions I made. The sad thing is, I didn't even leave because of my students. I loved my crazy middle school kiddos, even the challenging ones. My decision was entirely based on the treatment I received from the administration (which was worse than the students, in my opinion).
Sometimes, life throws us these obstacles because we have to learn lessons. Reflecting back on my time there, I can certainly say I learned a lot. It wasn't even the events of my resignation that I learned from; but, mostly from my teaching experience. I gave 100% into my work, that much is certain. So much so, that before the school year started, I bought three cans of paint and painted my classroom a beautiful shade of beige (instead of the hideous depressing blue). I also purchased supplies, posters, storage bins, books, and many other items, all in the name of providing a comfortable space for my students. I poured my heart into my classroom and my students. More than anything, my students were what mattered the most. I was also heading the History Fair, sponsoring middle school choir, and Chair of the School Climate Committee. It was disappointing, then, as a first year teacher to encounter some of the things I did from adults. People whom you thought were there to support you.
Two things came out of that experience:
(1) I learned that I did too much and took on a lot. I overwhelmed myself with many things, when in reality, I should have approached certain areas in a much simpler fashion. I feel like this applies to a good majority of us. Many times, we make things more complicated than they are, when simplicity is just as sufficient.
(2) Things aren't always as they appear to be. When I took my first teaching job, I did so on the brink of accepting another offer. One that would have actually paid me about $3000 more; however, I turned it down. You must be thinking, "She's crazy!" Well, the primary reason was I just didn't feel comfortable with that other school. For me, personally, it's significantly important to consider my work environment when accepting a position, even if the pay is lower. So I took the other position, feeling happy and knowing that I was in a place where I would be comfortable, and the administration was supportive. Or so I thought. That's when I learned that things can't be taken at face value. A person has to analyze situations, thoroughly, before jumping into them.
So now, summer is here. My job has consisted of finding a job. I'm applying left and right to different schools, hoping a few fish will catch the bait. Luckily, one has caught and I will be interviewing tomorrow at a charter school. Wish me luck! :)
I have faith in God, and I've always believed things happen for a reason. Sometimes, we may not know what that reason is, but we find out eventually. With my first teaching experience, I learned invaluable lessons that I will forever carry with me. I'm hopeful that things will turn out alright, and trust in the power of good intentions. If you're in the same boat, or something similar, don't despair. Have faith that things will turn out as they're meant to be, and never lose hope. Your soul is here for a reason, and sooner or later your desires may manifest themselves in God's great timing.
