BY:

Why I Quit Teaching After Only 4 Months

Posted On 01/14/2017

I quit my job as an elementary school teacher after only four months. I actually quit teaching one day mid-September, but I was encouraged to call in sick and my co-workers covered for me. To be clear, I wasn’t fired or forced out, I resigned on my own. I QUIT.

Realistic Expectations
It doesn’t matter if you it’s your first year, 15th year, or 30th year, teaching is hard. POINT. BLANK. PERIOD. However, first-year teachers face a unique set of challenges. Having your own classroom is totally different from working in an experienced teacher’s classroom environment. I was honest with myself and I knew my first year was not going to be a walk in the park. I wasn’t expecting my classroom to look Pinterest perfect or to become teacher of the year. But I wasn’t expecting the pure foolishness that I walked into.

Shocked and Unsupported
I’ve never seen anything like it. I had never been in a place where children didn’t have to take responsibility for their actions and teachers were blamed for everything. I got hit with a jump rope because I told a child they had modified recess. That child was right back in my classroom the next day jumping off of tables and trying to fight other students as if nothing happened. I’d get questioned about what I DID or DIDN’T do to cause the student to behave the way they did, right in front of my kids no less. So a child could throw crayons while I have students working in small groups and I get told that it’s my fault because their work was too hard, after being told that we need to up the rigor. I had students that would get up and play games on the desktop computers during the middle of my lessons. I was told that I needed to plan more engaging lessons, but on that day I was following the lessons provided by the school district to a T and I had differentiated text for my students to read. Anytime something happened, I was told to “just document it”. I’ve dealt with broken classroom windows, students slamming doors, frequent fights, and chairs being thrown. I can’t tell it all, but I could write a Harry Potter length book about what I experienced with my students alone during that time.
Constantly being blamed for things and being looked down on after putting my all into my classroom didn’t sit well with me. I was often told that because I was a first-year teacher, that my kids weren’t going to be learning anything. When your goal is to TEACH and no one around you confirms or supports that, it’s discouraging. There were multiple times where issues were brought up to me in front of others and it was embarrassing. I’m open to feedback, but constant criticism when you’re already down is like salt in the wound(s). A little affirmation goes a long way.
Throughout this four-month period, I did have the support of my friends, family, and my grade level team. I wouldn’t have made it without them.

Totally Consumed
I’ve always gone to school, as a student, a student-teacher, or a mentor. But for the first time in my 23 years of life, I felt like I was actually going to work and that wasn’t a good feeling. I would cry every day because I was miserable and I didn’t know what to do. I cried on my way to work, during my planning period (if I had one), after school, and when I got home. Anytime someone asked me how it was going, I would break down and cry. I wanted to say something positive, however, I couldn’t articulate anything. My team told me that I was not the same person they met during professional development week. It got to a point where I ended up on anxiety medication because I couldn’t sleep. I ended up losing 17 pounds because I couldn’t eat as a result of stress. I would worry about work 24/7. Whenever I took time for myself I felt guilty because I wasn’t lesson planning or doing something for my job. It’s hard to be effective at anything when you can’t even function. I felt bad because I would look at my students that really wanted to learn and I felt like I couldn’t help them because I was struggling.

Asking for Help
I reached out for help because I wanted to get myself together. However, once I enlisted help from district personnel, admin was no longer only unsupportive of my growth, but they were unsupportive and actively working against me. They sent others in my class to spy on me and my classroom and wanted those individuals to write reports up on what they observed. They wanted to say that I was the problem and have some justification as to why test scores were so low. Anything to take the pressure off of them and to keep their jobs safe. I’m sure there is a huge paper trail attached to my name. There is probably more documentation on me than students that have been at that school since kindergarten, if I’m being honest.
Y’all! I was a FIRST YEAR TEACHER, that was asking for help because I knew I needed it. I went to professional developments on my own because I wanted my students to be successful. I could have just went through the motions until May and not even tried just to get a paycheck. BUT I ASKED FOR HELP.  It turned into a “them against me thing”. Their focus was on making me look incompetent, but my focus was ALWAYS bettering myself for my KIDS. If everyone is in the business of making themselves look good by putting others down, the kids ultimately suffer. If I’m busting my butt and others are just delegating, and not actively coaching or nurturing what I am doing well, how am I supposed to help my students flourish?
*SideNote: I didn’t go over anyone’s head when asking for help, I was simply using a resource.*

The Beginning of the End
The straw that broke my back was when I had my initial evaluation the day before Thanksgiving break. It was all negative. EVERY SINGLE THING. But none of it was even about my ability to teach. I didn’t have any classroom observations prior so my evaluation was general “faculty meeting” statements mixed with assumptions. I was told that since my class had the most discipline referrals and phone calls to the office, it meant I wasn’t planning engaging lessons and this in turn, promoted misbehavior. I was essentially told that I was setting my kids up for failure. To reiterate, I didn’t have a single classroom observation prior. Any possible concerns that I had were addressed and dismissed before I could even speak. I just sat there fighting back the tears, because I felt defenseless and the effort I was making wasn’t acknowledged. The little bit of hope that I had found in that situation was diminished at that moment.

Time to Think and a Difficult Decision
The three days after Thanksgiving break I missed school because I was at home sick. I had a lot of time to reflect. I noticed how relaxed and stress-free I was. Why was I continuing to go to a place that stressed me out, especially if I wasn’t doing anything right in the eyes of others? During my time, I prayed and I talked to God and I asked Him for guidance. I talked to my teaching association and a few other trusted people. After all of that, I decided that I wouldn’t return to my classroom in January. I was honest with everyone about my plans of not returning and submitted my letter of resignation (although it wasn’t accepted). Sure I could have just not shown up, but I didn’t want to create chaos for anybody. I wanted the transition to be as smooth as possible. I also wanted to be able to say goodbye to my students, even after I was told not to tell my kids that I wasn’t coming back. Closure was important to me.
Quitting my job wasn’t an easy decision. I really did love my kids and I didn’t want them to think that I was giving up on them. Not only that, but I live alone and I pay 95% of my bills. I didn’t have another job lined up before I walked away. After I made my decision, I had a sense of peace come over me. I placed it all in God’s hands and I still believe that everything will work out for me.

Life is Short
This experience taught me that life is entirely too short to spend it doing something that doesn’t make me happy. Of course, I have to do things that I don’t like (paying bills, pumping gas, filing taxes), but I shouldn’t stay in situations that are detrimental to my mental and emotional well-being. In this case, the teaching profession wasn’t the issue, the environment in which I was “trying” to teach in was. NO ONE WAS HAPPY AT THAT SCHOOL. The teachers didn’t want to be there and the kids didn’t want to be there either. We were just expected to deal with all that was being thrown at us and take the blame for kids being two and three grade levels behind in reading. I just couldn’t buy the crap they were trying to sell me because I knew I deserved better. I wasn’t myself in that environment. I had lost my glow, my positive attitude, and my tenacity. The second I could no longer be Kymmie, I knew it was time for me to exit stage left.

Moving Forward
My dream of being a teacher isn’t crushed. I don’t think I’ll be returning to the classroom anytime soon, mainly because I’ll probably lose my license from breach of contract. However, I KNOW I CAN TEACH and no one will ever be able to take away the gift that GOD has given to me. But I have a feeling I won’t be teaching in a traditional sense. *inserts thinking emoji*

-Kymmie
A Former First Year Teacher

Update: I’m now a certified career coach serving 8 middle schools and the owner of Glitter, Glue, and Goals. 

Download a free copy of my Find Your Glitter Workbook.

Find me on Clubhouse @KymmieCartledge

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  • Janell Daniels 01/15/2017 at 3:27 PM

    I love you and I am so proud of you!! Thank you for starting this blog!! Thank you for being so transparent!!! Hi

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:30 PM

      Thank you. And thanks for reading it first.

    • MsCee 01/15/2017 at 8:54 PM

      Your transparency is well appreciated. I’m in my third year of teaching, second with this particular company and I’ve never experienced so many health issues in my life. You have put into words exactly what I have been feeling when my words fail me because I’m trying to remain positive. YOU are one of many that has made the decision to put your needs first and I commend you. I pray nothing but greatness over your future endeavors, and your passion returns fully to want to give it another go with teaching. It’s not the career, it’s the job. I had to learn the difference!

      • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:44 PM

        Thank you so much.

    • La'Nita Eaton 01/15/2017 at 9:09 PM

      You’re very courageous! Thank you for sharing! I’m so sorry about your experience, and it’s sad to say that this is Truth for many novice and experienced teachers!

      Keep your head up, Kymmie! God has ordered your steps, and He knows the plans He has made for you!

      • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:46 PM

        Thank you. Be blessed.

    • Tonija Pelt 01/16/2017 at 10:10 AM

      Hi Kym. I resigned after 8 yrs for many of the same reasons. So I too have walked in your shoes. I salute your courage. Teaching is Tough! Peace and blessing to you !

      • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:01 PM

        Thank you so much.

    • Shannon 01/16/2017 at 5:11 PM

      I really admire your honesty, courage and faith ! Yes, it takes all of those traits to step away from your financial life line. You will be fine because you possess those traits!

      An administrator who has seen it all!

  • Angel Simpson 01/15/2017 at 4:03 PM

    Kymmie…this blog was amazing. I am so proud of you for putting YOU first! You are stronger than you know and I know God has many great things planned for you. You have truly inspired me and I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog! I look forward to the ones to come!! 💕

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:30 PM

      Thank you Angel.

  • AmberC 01/15/2017 at 4:11 PM

    Kymmie, I had joy and sadness reading this. I too had experiences that are very similar. I started mid year at a school where the discipline issues were very similar (cried everyday). All of my clipboards had every cuss word you could imagine from those first graders! However, admin was somewhat supportive because they knew they needed me to ride out the rest of the school year. The next year, I went to a new school thinking things would be so much better, and the kids were, the administration was not. I was discouraged and put down just like you were, they made me feel like I was the worst teacher ever, how was I supposed to be confident when constantly being told I was “unacceptable”. I also went to a resource from the district and it very much became a “me against them” situation. There is a light. I’m now a teachers aide (still scarred from teaching) at an awesome school and I love it. I’m no longer on anxiety meds and I don’t get nauseous about going to work anymore. I hope you find your joy and your tenacious spirit will put you somewhere perfect! 🙂

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:31 PM

      Thank you Amber.

  • AutumnG 01/15/2017 at 5:48 PM

    Kymmie, I hate you had this experience. I was so saddened because I’ve seen what you can do in a classroom and how engaging your lessons can be. I feel even sorrier for the school that you were at to lose such a wonderful teacher. You did everything you should’ve done and there’s nothing you can look back at and say you could do differently. Stay true to yourself and your happiness!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:31 PM

      Thanks Autumn.

  • JK 01/15/2017 at 5:57 PM

    I understand what you’re going through, especially with the terrible behavior of your kids. I’m also a 23 year old teacher. I get discouraged often because of the reluctance of my students. Sometimes it makes me dread going to work, but I keep pushing. Although, I know classroom teaching will not be something I do forever. Thanks for sharing your story.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:34 PM

      Thank you for taking the time to read it. It’s going to be okay!!!!! You can do it.

  • Star 01/15/2017 at 5:57 PM

    Kymmie, I also resigned this January. Our situations were very different, yet I understand all that you endured. I was at the point where I felt I wasn’t growing professionally and was stuck in a bubble because “I was so good”… I wanted to move into a different role within my district for a while, but they wanted high scores, so I was a permanent fixture in my building for a few years. Note I’ll be staying a new position elsewhere, which I’m really excited about. I have also been blessed with an amazing opportunity to work from home part time! I’d like to extend that opportunity to you as well. Email me: librapok@yahoo.com

    • Iesha 01/15/2017 at 6:27 PM

      This was so inspiring. I too am a 1st year teacher and I suffer from migraines. They’ve never been this bad. I’m going to stick it out at this school, however, I pray I get a new position in the school district and grade level I desire at a better school. If not, I’m looking into online teaching, office work or going back to becoming a Para. Major pay cut but for a peace of mind something has to give!

      • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:35 PM

        It will work out for you. Peace of mind is important.

  • Markgetta Jackson Langford 01/15/2017 at 6:07 PM

    Your blog was an excellent read. I commend you!!! I only lasted two days in the classroom…No that is not a “typo” it was TWO days…2…days!!! I just couldn’t. NEVER had I experienced the level of rudeness from children and lack of concern from administration. I opted for a profession “teaching” in a sense, but not in a classroom. We help students, parents and teachers through Educational Trips and College Tours. I am still able to help the most important person in the classroom…THE CHILD…but through a different venue. God bless you as you too find your path.

    ~MJ Langford~
    Dream Big Youth Travel

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:36 PM

      That is awesome. I happy for you!

  • Ramona 01/15/2017 at 6:09 PM

    Thank you for sharing! I think what you did took courage and strength. I hope that you don’t give up on teaching. Every school and district are not the same. Be blessed in your search for peace and purpose.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:37 PM

      Thank you. I know it’s not like that everywhere. I’m a product of the district I was working in and did my student teaching the district as well with no problems.

  • DJ Liv 01/15/2017 at 6:22 PM

    This was an excellent read. I felt EVERY SINGLE BIT of your frustration. I applaud you for taking control of your life and doing what makes YOU happy. I recently did the EXACT. same thing and it is SO liberating. God Bless your newfound freedom and I hope you find what you want.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:38 PM

      Thank you so much!!!

  • Danielle 01/15/2017 at 6:35 PM

    I love your honesty! I am a teacher myself and you described everything that I’ve been dealing with and praying about myself. I am at a point where I need to make a career change from teaching and your blog opened my eyes to everything that I’ve been going back & forth with lately. I wonder what will happen next? How do I begin this change?

  • Keisha 01/15/2017 at 6:55 PM

    This was awesome! Thanks for sharing! I definitely understand everything that you went through because I had the exact same experience my first year. I commend you for being bold and stepping out on faith. I wish you the best on your journey and you’re definitely in my prayers.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:38 PM

      Thank you. I really appreciate that.

  • Anisha 01/15/2017 at 7:29 PM

    I’m an educator of ten years, but everything you say is the absolute truth. I’m sorry that at least someone was not able to help you bc it’s unfortunate to lose such a dedicated individual, especially when our kids need us to advocate for them. Continue to know that you are a good teacher no matter what the system says. Thanks for sharing and posting your experiences. I wish you well and hope that you continue to do what makes you feel good! 🙂

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 7:39 PM

      Thank you so much!!! I loved my kids and I did what I could to help them.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 8:11 PM

      Thank you. Our children deserve better!

  • Candous B. 01/15/2017 at 7:55 PM

    I definitely feel your pain and anguish. I’m completing my 9th year in the classroom. And let me tell you, everything you have mentioned is something that I have felt at some point in my career. I’ve been at 5 different schools and at each one there is/was something that could have been improved.
    If it weren’t for the fact that I’m a single mother, I probably would have left as well.
    I’m proud of your strength and courage to know and understand that the situation wasn’t for you.
    I do hope at some point you find a school that fits and supports you. If not, I hope you find something you love!
    Best Wishes!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 8:04 PM

      Thank you so much!!!!!!

  • T.Simmons 01/15/2017 at 7:58 PM

    First, you are a brave young woman and you did the right thing! I’ve been in the trenches for twenty-eight years. In my opinion, it’s not only the educational system that is in desperate need of major changes but where children receive their first lessons in life. Teachers are expected to do “EVERYTHING” and that’s no teaching!
    I truly hope your new endeavors are successful.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 8:05 PM

      Thank you. A lot needs to change. It’s only getting worse.

  • Courtney 01/15/2017 at 8:03 PM

    Great blog Kymmie!!!! It’s all a learning experience! I think we have all experiences that job was toxic to us, if they haven’t then they will! But that’s just to make you stronger and move to where you are supposed to be in life!! Love this and keep it up!!!!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 8:06 PM

      I should have changed majors when you did. Lol. But thank you!!!!

  • Kisha 01/15/2017 at 8:09 PM

    Thank you for your honesty. I’ve been teaching for 20 years and have been faced with very similar situations. Each day I wake up and say “Today will be a better day.” Good luck on your future endeavours. You will definitely teach many people through your blog. ☺

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 8:14 PM

      Thank you so much!

    • Angela 01/15/2017 at 8:56 PM

      It’s sad so many who teach are feeling this way.

      • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:44 PM

        I know.

  • Arria 01/15/2017 at 8:19 PM

    This is my story. I stuck at the school for two miserable years. My first year I was in a classroom that was actually a teachers lounge, with no windows and a temporary wall making it half the size of a normal classroom. Two of the walls were all cabinet space. During these two years, my father was also dying of brain cancer. He died September 2015, during the first semester of my 2nd year. I was tenacious enough to give the second year a try even though the first year was rough, but the second year was unbearable. I sought out counseling. I left on bad terms. I didn’t want to leave teaching all together because I knew that was the only experience I had, but I was lost all last summer. I decided to be an assistant teacher for Pre-K at an early learning center, and I love my students now. I don’t make nearly as much, but my boss is incredible, the lead is incredible, and I have a peace of mind. In the meantime, I’ve been working on my blog and just seeking out what is right for me. Thank you for sharing your story, because it reminds me that I’m not alone and it wasn’t all my fault, no matter how administrators made it out to seem. People from the outside looking in cannot imagine the trauma that is teaching in today’s education system.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 8:59 PM

      Thanks for sharing your story also. Stay encouraged.

  • Yanna 01/15/2017 at 8:20 PM

    This was really good. I can definitely empathize with you, even though this isn’t my first year. The classroom isn’t for me, but there’s so many other ways to be an educator! I’m sure you’re going to do something great. Just recognizing where you were was a big step!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:11 PM

      It will work out for all of us.

  • Charnice Ray 01/15/2017 at 8:29 PM

    Kymmie, I’m proud of you! Thank you forsharing your story. You are an amazing person! You are still teaching……now through your blog.
    I enjoyed reading it and look forward to reading more.
    Blessings!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:12 PM

      Thank you so much. I appreciate it.

  • Shak 01/15/2017 at 8:45 PM

    Kynmie,
    I have been in education since 2004, second career and I must tell you, I can associate with your blog. I love the educational field, but I experience and have experienced all that you describe. I applaud you for resigning. I too no longer have the desire to be in the classroom and want out. Reading your blog is like a confirmation. God bless you and I’m sure there is something great in your future.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:42 PM

      Thank you so much.

  • Angela 01/15/2017 at 8:55 PM

    Kymmie, YOU are Kymmie your occupation was teacher.Remember your identity is not your job/career. Live. Rest in God he will take care of you and show you what is next.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:42 PM

      Thank you!

  • BT 01/15/2017 at 9:28 PM

    Kymmie I’m so glad I came across your blog.you are the voice for so many teachers and everything you said is the absolute truth. I’ve been teaching eleven years and I am feeling exactly how you felt your first year.I’ve become comfortable longing to do something else but feeling like all I know is teaching.education has changed and as teachers we want what’s best for the kids but we can’t teach anymore due to all the foolishness. You stepped out on faith and realized that your peace and happiness is far more important than being somewhere in misery. You are young and you have so many options to do what you love. Your writing skills and ability to reach others thru your personal experiences is impecibal.Continue to be a voice for educators. I don’t know you but I thank you. 👏👏

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:39 PM

      Thank you so much. It’s never too late to start something new.

  • Tamika 01/15/2017 at 9:37 PM

    Keep God first, follow your heart and remember you deserve all the peace and happiness life has to offer. Take a break, continue praying and trust that God will lead you were you are to be in life.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:45 PM

      Thank you.

  • Chantelle Broughton 01/15/2017 at 9:43 PM

    Kymmie! I enjoyed reading your story. Although I’m in a different field, the message you’re sending hit home with me. Thank you for the reminder as it came right on time. Life is too short and it’s time for me to start capitalizing on my happiness! I can’t wait to read more!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 9:47 PM

      Thank you girl. You only live once so you have to be happy.

  • Mrs. Mitchell 01/15/2017 at 10:13 PM

    Glad to see that you are happy. My child misses you so much but he is still able to see you on Instagram. Seeing you leave was bitter sweet but I witness the hostile learning environment. YOLO enjoy everyday of it.

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 10:19 PM

      Thank you. And I appreciate your support and understanding!

  • Renae 01/15/2017 at 10:29 PM

    Great read!!!! Last year I was a first year (and last year) classroom teacher. I, too, was going to resign and not return in January of last year, but I prayed about it and I pressed my way through until the end of the year. It was a challenge to stay, but God! I seriously have to credit God because……whew……I am happy again and still in the education movement…..educating adults regarding finances. I’m glad you put YOU first because being under those types of circumstances can affect your physical and mental health. I believe it will all work out for you, Kymmie! I’m rooting for you!

    • Kymmie 01/15/2017 at 10:31 PM

      Thank you so much!

  • KC 01/15/2017 at 10:56 PM

    Thank you for your raw honesty. I contemplated not returning after winter break, but it wasn’t because of the students. I am working at a new school this year with two teacher assistants in the classroom who treat me as if I don’t know what I’m doing (although I’ve been teaching for 10 years, and this wasn’t my first time thinking about quitting either). The environment feels really tense all the time and it’s affecting my health. I decided to stay “for the students” and just make it through the remainder of the year. But the truth is I struggle with confrontation and I’m too chicken to turn in my resignation. I admire you for doing something I’m too afraid to do.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:27 AM

      Thank you. Don’t feel guilty. I love my kids and I think my kids are better off without me as their teacher.

  • Melissa 01/15/2017 at 10:57 PM

    Kymmie this was amazing! I wanted to cry and then go find these people and tell them off! I am glad that you are at peace with yourself. Its all in God’s hands and he will not lead you astray. I pray everything gets better for you Kymmie!!

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:25 AM

      Thank you so much. I appreciate it!

  • Andrea 01/16/2017 at 2:33 AM

    I must say, I truly enjoyed reading your blog. You have found your true calling. I admire your courage to step out on faith and not stay in something that jeopardized your peace and joy. However, everything happens for a reason, you now have an inside view of what’s happening in many of our schools. You can be a voice and a champion for change by using your platform to bring forth awareness. Connect with your local union and reach out to school board members. Talk to the media and share your truth. Many educators are not at liberty to speak up due to a fear of losing their job. You are an amazing writer, use your gift to make a living as well as make a difference.

    Thank you

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:07 AM

      Thank you so much! That means a lot to me. I’ve been thinking about how to use this experience to help other teachers.

  • Kim Darley 01/16/2017 at 3:32 AM

    Kymmie
    This was a great read. These were some of the things I was going through and decided to resign after 15 years. I stepped out on faith and now substituting in a different district. I realize it wasnt me it was the environment and other factors. Peace of mind is Everything.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:09 AM

      Yes. I remember talking with you about it. Nothing wrong with walking away.

  • Shiba Hill 01/16/2017 at 4:29 AM

    This blog post was very transparent, honest and to the point. You expressed how many teachers go through and I appreciate that. It put a lot of things into perspective and I agree with you 100% on being happy within your career. Thank you for sharing your experience and I pray that you continue to be successful in whatever career you choose. God bless you and as a fellow teacher, I’m with you and your decision to leave the profession. Be blessed!

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:10 AM

      Thank you. God bless you also.

  • Jessica T 01/16/2017 at 6:39 AM

    I’m so glad you wrote this! You gave a voice to so many who are being emotionally abused/blamed/harassed by administrators & coaches. I pray everything works out for you 😊

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:11 AM

      Thank you!!!

  • Jasmine Narcisse 01/16/2017 at 7:56 AM

    Hi! That was an awesome letter! I recently left teaching after 7 years and although my students were amazing, it was admin thay drove me out. I am a dialysis patient and my admin was so insensitive to my health situation..something i had no control over. Evem when i missed work bc i was in icu, my principal gave me hard time about sub plans and blah blah blah…even when my dad died and i mssed work on that day bc of obvious reasons her response was that i needed to send sub plans asap..its hard working for people who dont care about thier teachers at all. Now i work from home teaching kids in china thru an online program called vipkid. It is such a breath of fresh air to teach kids who want to learn and have a supporting organization behind me. You should conisider it if u haven’t already. Sounds like any kid would benefit from learning from u in the right environment.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:14 AM

      Thanks. I will check that out. I’m glad you found a better situation.

  • Georgia 01/16/2017 at 8:15 AM

    Kymmie reading your story reminded me of my first year of teaching. Going in their bright-eyed and bushy tailed. There was no Pinterest, teachers pay teachers or google to search for interesting classroom strategies. Classroom management wasn’t my problem but it was a principal, that even though she hired me, had it in for me. Nothing I did was good in her eyes and the threat of my job was on the line. Everyday was a struggle as she observed my teaching with no feedback as to what I was doing wrong. Just before Thanksgiving break I attended a seminar and the speaker was talking about new teacher burnout. It seemed that every word she spoke opened that hole in my heart. She encouragingly spoke “hold on help is in the way”. After giving it to God, 3 weeks later that principal was gone and a new one arrived with the hope, structure and encouragement I needed to make it to 16 years of teaching. I also share my story with new teachers on my campus who walk around a few weeks after school starts and the light in their eyes have begun to fade. Even though you didn’t have the rescue I had before you left, be encouraged that keeping your eyes on God, he will make a way and you WILL teach again. God bless you. You are AMAZING!

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 9:02 AM

      Thank you so much for reading and your comment.

  • Elaine 01/16/2017 at 9:02 AM

    Amazing testimony! So many of us have dealt with all of that! Your voice is needed! Our schools are in bad shape & teachers get all the blame! It’s a shame that we are stressed & overwhelmed with no support.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 11:55 AM

      Thank you!

  • Hargrove 01/16/2017 at 9:34 AM

    Kymmie

    Thank you for your boldness. At 23, you understand the heart of teaching children. You’re self aware and you acted accordingly. We’ve all been in your shoes and didn’t have the wisdom to free ourselves. Kymmie, God will provide he and you are growing in multiple ways. So, I went through a similar situation but walked back into a situation that is similar. You had a jump rope-first time teaching I had a parent second time teaching it was a pencil box. First time I was blamed and second time I was unprotected. Think about your idle place of employment and it’ll come to you. Fight for yourself and your ability to teach. People quit ALL the time and get another job teaching. I’m a firm believer in speaking over your life. Speak life over your licensing but still take a break if that’s what you need.

    Peace and Blessings,

    From one young teacher to another

    Hargrove

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 11:56 AM

      Thank you so much. God is doing something special.

  • Nickie 01/16/2017 at 9:46 AM

    This is my 7th year teaching and my first was probably my most helpful year. I should have never left there, but it was an hour away from home and I needed to finish my Master’s. I have been at a different school every year since. I don’t “follow’ the rules and it’s my fault the kids are literally swinging from the ceiling or threatening me and my life or something. It feels like going into a war zone on a daily basis sometimes. I just want to teach and I try to focus on the ones that want to learn. Reading your blog was like seeing a glimpse into my classroom. Keeping posting.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 11:59 AM

      Thank you for sharing. I’m sorry you are dealing with that.

  • Andreanita 01/16/2017 at 10:15 AM

    Thanks for sharing, I’ve been in your shoes with the behaviors and being blamed for it all. It hurts deeply, it’s a feeling that can’t be explained. I did stick through that year, but I did deal with health issues. When will the focus turn to the home probably never, because we pull the empathy card all the time. Be blessed 😊

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:03 PM

      Thank you!

  • Mrs. Ramsey 01/16/2017 at 10:40 AM

    Kymmie, My heart aches for you because you had the passion to be a great teacher but lacked the support needed to thrive in the classroom. I have taught for 32 years and mentored and supervised 23 student teachers or new teachers. I have had fabulous novice teachers in my classroom who did not make it as teachers due to circumstances similar to yours. I am always saddened at the loss of those human resources. If you still have teaching in your heart, try again in a different situation. There are schools where administrators and coaches are not under extreme stress and can be supportive. There are school where parents teach their children to behave at school. There are schools where children want to learn and they love their teachers.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:04 PM

      Thank you so much.

  • Kelly 01/16/2017 at 11:14 AM

    I spent my first experience (for 3 years) in a completely destructive and negative school. It wasn’t until I resigned and went elsewhere (with good administration) that I learned “wow, so this is how it should be”.

    Yeah, it’s still incredibly hard after 6 years, but I’ve made personal growth and consider myself a pretty good teacher.

    Good for you. Keep your head up. Always improve. And never stop reflecting.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:05 PM

      Thank you so much.

  • Dede Wilkinson 01/16/2017 at 11:14 AM

    Kymmie, bless your heart. I hate that you were in this situation, and I despise that your former students are still suffering through this environment. I worked in schools for 30 years, 24 of those as a classroom teacher. One thing I know is that when districts provide lesson plans & then tell teachers their lessons aren’t “engaging,” the teacher isn’t the problem. Stay strong, your are destined for better things than this.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:05 PM

      Thank you so much.

  • Constance Terry Morris 01/16/2017 at 11:23 AM

    Simply amazing!!! I am proud of you, and definitely relate to your experience!!!!! Remember, “You Are Amazing!”

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:06 PM

      Thank you.

  • Joel 01/16/2017 at 11:29 AM

    Kymmie
    I’m so sorry to see someone as intellegent and able as you are leaving teaching- and I totally understand why. Our profession has become, well, dishonored by those who are supposed to be leading it. My husband and I both teach- he’s a middle school teacher and I teach high school- and we are both gazing longingly at retirement (in a few years). Woe to the administrators who have to deal with us in our final year/months of teaching. We plan to do what’s right by our kids, make our classrooms fun and boisterous, and bounce the bad actors to the curb with no return ticket. I’m done with admins who think that all the kid has to to is apologize to me and I should let them back into my classroom to do the same bad behavior all over. Nope. Nope. Nope. I’m done with kids asking “Can I do extra credit to bring my grade up?” I’m done with kids who think they can do whatever they want and I will be the understanding elder stateswoman. (Remember these are HS kids) No, there will be consequences and your mommy’s emails will not change a thing. Age makes you bold and it will be glorious. Perhaps we’ll document it all on YouTube.

    Meanwhile, keep writing and moving forward. I hope you can find a place that will honor your dedication to this important profession and give you the support and nurture you need and deserve. Be bold- and join your union. And get a lawyer if they try to do the breach of contract on you. They should not be allowed to take away your livelihood because of their poor working conditions. Stay strong.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:07 PM

      Thank you so much for sharing.

  • Kay 01/16/2017 at 12:04 PM

    Kymmie, You are not the first new teacher or teacher for that matter to feel this way. I have been in Education for over 20 years and worked as a Teacher up through Principal, now I work at a university training pre-service teachers. My advice to them is to be very discriminating at the school you ultimately decide to teach in. The money may be higher at some troubled districts and seem alluring but be mindful of the cost, i.e. discipline and STRESS! I hope that you don’t give up on teaching all together. Try private school education or even international education. My last job as a Principal in urban education was TOUGH! I started to feel EVERYTHING you describe; depression, despair, anger in my situation and I KNEW I had to leave. I luckily found an international Admin position that was a dream – NO DISCIPLINE, NONE!!!! it was night and day! After doing that job, I knew that I would NEVER return to an environment like the one that I left. Now, in higher education, I’m making significantly less, and it is a struggle financially but I can’t put a price tag on feeling free and unstressed. Just don’t give up on your dream! If you want to teach there is the RIGHT job out there for you…

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:10 PM

      I’m so glad you found something that worked for you!

  • Phylicia Jeffreys 01/16/2017 at 12:14 PM

    Hey😊, start a tutoring company! Run a summer camp! Run a track out camp for year round schools!
    Just teach on Teacher!! And your writing is awesome too…ouuu see now you can teach that! Hold a writing camp weekdays afterschool!
    😙 much success

    Oh and sadly it’s like that at alot of schools. My 6th yr in and ive seen everything you speak of and have experienced more of it than i wish.

    Peace n Blessings!

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:23 PM

      Thank you so much. I appreciate you saying that. The possibilities are endless.

  • Jana 01/16/2017 at 12:43 PM

    I’ve been in those shoes and I’m still not sure how I survived. The fact that you have over 100 comments saying “me too!l only shows how system wide this problem is. Thank you for speaking so candidly for those who feel that they can’t – there are 100s more.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 12:59 PM

      Thank you. It’s sad to see so many people feel the same way.

  • Joanna Logan 01/16/2017 at 12:55 PM

    Very relatable. Especially when you said “It’s hard to be effective at anything when you can’t even function.” That’s the story of my first year of teaching. I too couldn’t eat and couldn’t do anything outside of work without feeling guilty and anxious. A therapist told me I was in mild depression. I too will not be in the classroom forever but thank God for taking me this far. I’m definitely subscribing.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 1:00 PM

      Thank you so much. I appreciate that.

  • Rhonda 01/16/2017 at 1:31 PM

    I have been teaching for 5 years. I just left middle school to teach high school because I heard it was better. It’s not! The new school has treated me the same way you were treated,like I’m the problem and not the students. Coming into my classroom 5 people deep trying to intimidate me,and tell me I’m the problem, not the students. I am broken, disheartened, suffering from anxiety, waking up at 3 in the morning trying to come up with new strategies. Newly wed of only 5 months and I’m so wore out at the end of the day, that I’m asleep by 7 pm,before my husband even gets home from work! I’ve had students curse me and write terrible notes about me in class and leave them on my desk. When I turned them in to admin, nothing was done, they were right back in my class the next day. I love teaching but I too think I’m done!

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 2:05 PM

      I’m sorry you’re dealing that. Thank you for sharing your situation.

  • Seneithia 01/16/2017 at 6:06 PM

    Great blog! Thanks for being so honest and transparent.

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:44 PM

      Hey girl. Thanks for reading!!!

  • Mrs.DTW 01/16/2017 at 8:24 PM

    Kymmie, what you experienced isnt new to those of us who have been at it a looooong time. The sad part about it is that, it hasnt been identified and dealt with by now. I am a 35 years(in the classroom) veteran. I can remember having some of the same experiences and emotions during my first 3 years (the dreaded tenure years) and, feeling lost and overwhelmed. The problem is that the “powers that be” dont know what goes on in the schools and classrooms. They live in la-la-land and never REALLY visit schools to find out what and who the problems really are. It’s THEM and THEIR POLICIES. They require teachers to do it all and students and their parents are not required to do anything. You should have had a mentor with you EVERY STEP OF THE WAY during your first year in the classroom. Nobody understands that the student didnt read the handbook. What they taught you in the college classroom doesnt work in the REAL classroom. You should have had a supportive, hands on administer. He/she should have encouraged you when you did a good job, refocused you when you made mistakes. Believe me, you are not the first nor the only 1st year teacher to experience your plight. And, if we want to call a spade a spade, it’s about MONEY. Federal, state, and local schoool districts across America or top heavy (meaning the policy makers and folks at the central office are not putting the dollars in the classrooms. Too many students with too many issues and nowhere near enough personnel/resources to help the students. Everything falls on the classroom teacher… the overworked, underpaid, overwhelmed classroom teacher. And, as in your case, when you fledglings have had enough, there’s a mass exodus. Do get me wrong. I know that you had to make the right decision for you and your sanity. When my daughter walks across the stage and gets her BS, I’m escaping too. Yes, I meant escaping….Not retiring…just running out the door .LOL. My hope is that one day, lawmakers will really want NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND…EVERY STUDENT SUCCEEDS (or whatever cutesy acronim/slogan fits) and they will put resources and personnel in the classroom with the teacher. That way everybody is successful. Good luck in your future endeavors. Hopefully helping the kids who you love and who need you. –

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:47 PM

      Thank you so much. I agree with what you said. We need more people to help out. No one can do it all. My mentor teacher was helpful. She did what she could to help me and speak up for me.

    • Shak 01/17/2017 at 6:10 PM

      Well said!

  • Yolanda Williams 01/16/2017 at 8:39 PM

    I feel ya, sistah!!! God’s got you covered!!! You will be just fine!!!

    • Kymmie 01/16/2017 at 8:47 PM

      Thank you so much!!!

  • Patrice 01/17/2017 at 4:53 PM

    Thank you for sharing your experience. You put the frustration that many teachers feel on a daily basis into words that people across all professions can understand. You are amazing and strong. I wish you the best! Permission to share?

    • Kymmie 01/17/2017 at 5:00 PM

      Thank you so much. Feel free to share.

  • wastrulyenchanted 01/18/2017 at 9:21 AM

    You have a way with words that caught my attention until the end. Great post and very courageous for opening up about your teaching experience.

    • Kymmie 01/18/2017 at 11:09 AM

      Thank you so much for reading!

  • jenn549 01/18/2017 at 10:56 AM

    wow well done!!! I have a friend who went through a similar thing and it was incredibly difficult. It’s not an easy decision to walk away but you did what was right for you x

    • Kymmie 01/18/2017 at 11:09 AM

      Thank you for reading!!!

  • LKML 01/19/2017 at 10:26 PM

    Knowing the school you were in you made the right decision. Teachers never do anything right and everything wrong in the classroom is the teacher’s fault. Do Not give up on teaching, you have a lot to offer. I wish you the very best.

  • Laureen 02/05/2017 at 2:54 PM

    Waw, that is what you call a learning experience. There was so much to learn not only about the situation but about yourself and your intentions. I believe you would be a great teacher because your heart and focus is in the right place. You were just not in the right place for you to blossom. I plan on going into teaching before the end of the year. It was never something in my plan but I realize it would put me in a position to accomplish my overall purpose. It’s a challenging job and I have to start praying for courage and to be prepared. Lovely share

    • Kymmie 02/05/2017 at 4:40 PM

      Teaching is hard, but so worth it when you have the support.

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