A Day in the Life of Distance Teaching! - Teacher Vlog

[@christineestrada6014]

For all the people who say teachers don’t do much, “have it easy because they leave at 3,” have summers off, should only get half pay since they are doing half the work...SHAME on you!! Teachers do way TOO much and should be making a whole LOT more!!! They are doing double work this year especially and literally year round. It boggles my mind that a professional athlete can make millions of $ but to get to where they are at the athlete started when an education from a teacher!!! Hats off to teachers you you have so much respect from me!!

[@nafisedwards5389]

They also get paid summer

[@mimiroth5077]

Thank you for sharing because I feel the same. “This is not what I signed up for” is what I’ve been saying too. I teach special ed to k-2 kids. The workload is more with distance learning and the impact is less. I’m with you.

[@melissap.9548]

I teach special ed as well, PreK-1. Do you have any students in person?

[@mimiroth5077]

Melissa as of now, we are distance learning 100%. May be moving into a hybrid model soon. I’m in MN. HBU?

[@melissap.9548]

Mimi Roth I have both; about half of my students are in person and the rest online. It’s a hot mess. I’m in MD

[@sadeyescreations1702]

I'm not a teacher, but I felt this so much... Hugs! And to all the teachers reading this, thank you for all that you do it does not go unnoticed ♥️♥️♥️

[@meghandagostino3120]

I am in NY teaching fully remote children. Thank you for acknowledging how important it is to balance family life and work life, especially right now. It’s a huge struggle to fight the urge to pour over my lessons to make them more fun and engaging. It would take hours upon hours, but I don’t want to return to my family with nothing left to give them. My family deserves my attention too....and so does yours.

[@tayrankin00]

YES! I'm a first year teacher this year and it is endlessly frustrating, sad, and exhausting. It's so sad sitting in an empty, silent classroom just lecturing to a screen. Not to mention that I teach kinder so the technology I can use is extremely limited. I am in week 4 and it feels like we've been doing this for months. I'm tired and it's hard to see the light, but I'm gonna keep trucking and keep doing my best!

[@myrandarosenbaum9332]

Girl. I am a first year too. I'm exhausted. I love my students but today I just couldn't push through and left 30 mins early

[@653dancestar653]

I don’t like virtual learning either. As a college student I’m so focused on getting through the video lectures to take a quiz that I’m really not learning anything. I also feel like I go from watching lectures to studying without a personal life. I’m struggling to find a balance in life.

[@jamesvolpe7474]

First, remember this, you are an outstanding teacher, these are unprecedented times for all teachers. You are not alone. I retired from teaching in June of 2019. I taught 41 years most of my career was in second grade. It is a great age to teach. Teachers are going above and beyond your job requirements. I am from New York and taught in the suburbs. My teacher friends are all feeling like you are feeling. They are teaching 2 cohorts Monday and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Wednesday is all distant learning. The classes is split in half. Again, remember you are not alone, continue to do what you are doing. You and all the amazing teachers will get through this. My best to you. I am retired as I said and still enjoy watching your videos. Good Luck. You Rock!

[@carolynhaines8048]

I’m a second grader teacher in the Santa Barbara area. We are currently remote, but may switch to hybrid October 1st. What you are feeling is normal. Things are not ok. Everything is hard. Second graders do not have the reading or tech skills to do most things that are required for online learning. You are doing great.

[@mimifredoh]

1000% agree. Hard to get out of bed some mornings. But I remind myself that I might just be the only person shining light in my students' lives today so I buck up butter cup. You are too. All we can do. Hang in there and don't let those guilty thoughts about giving time to your son have space in your head. Momma is your most important job.

[@OwlEyesReviews]

Oregon - virtual teaching, 4th grade. Our first day was Monday. I felt really drained and sad at the end of the day. I'm doing my very best to be in a positive mindset, but it's really hard. One day is good, one is difficult. Figuring out the technology and how to support the students is really hard. It's difficult, but we're trying our best :)

[@daybyday6522]

I really appreciate you doing these blogs. As a fellow teacher (third grade) in California, I am feeling the same way right now. I completely agree that people who aren't having to do this themselves don't realize how much time it really takes to make things accessible to kids. Creating documents, working out glitches, tech support, parent communications, etc. I feel ya!

[@egtupper]

I retired in May after 35 years. I don’t know how all of you are staying as positive as you are. I think you’re doing great! Sending lots of love and good wishes your way. Love your vlogs! ... you’re absolutely right... family comes first and self care is critical !

[@emmap.7314]

As a parent who has a 2nd grader (a VERY spirited one that has zero ability to not move his body for a minute) at home virtually learning, thank you so much for all that you do!!!!! You and all of the teachers in this world are my heroes!

[@MKDSSenior1]

I truly appreciate you uploading this video and keeping it real. I am feeling literally every single thing you are and it made me comforted that I'm not alone. I am a K-1 Intervention Specialist in Ohio and I lose sleep every single night about all of the things I am not getting checked off my to do list each day and all of the things I'm not creating to make this experience GREAT for the kids. Obviously, I'm doing my best..but there's a breaking point and only so much time in the day. As my principal always says, we always have to do right by kids and I know I'm doing my best for them.

[@karendavis4793]

(Library Labels).."That's probably not even going to be started because I don't want to do it." That made me laugh! LOVE your honesty!!!!

[@tawanarose2898]

New Mexico, virtual teaching, feeling same! Tears, frustration. Love your ideas! Don't feel guilty for putting your baby and family first! Glad you have team support!

[@lizzie2007951]

I am a 4th grade teacher in Kansas City, Missouri and we are ALL feeling the same way! We are virtual on Zoom with students from 8:30-2:00 every day with no breaks. I will say--more Zoom time has it's downfalls, too. I agree that I feel like a presenter and not a teacher. It feels absolutely awful being a teacher right now. We feel overworked, guilty, burnt out, and just tired. I believe things will get better very soon, but I also want to manage my expectations. I wish I had some advice, but the reality is that it's just hard and it sucks and we are doing the best we can. Going above any beyond just isn't possible for some teachers right now--it's definitely not for me. Keep doing what you're doing, because it looks like you're doing great!

[@MichelleGayscienceteacher]

Give yourself grace and take care of yourself and family. I agree, spend time with your sweet baby. I understand how you are feeling and I applaud you for giving so much of your time to your students. I teach in Alabama and we are teaching in person but we also offer virtual. I teach in person, thank God!! Blessings!

[@McGoughHeather]

A mom of 1st grader and 4th grader private school kids, we opted for fully remote first semester and we are figuring it out week 4. I basically sit in the dining room 8:00-2:00 trying to do my own work, but it’s a fair amount of helping them log on, troubleshooting tech issues and printing materials teachers send throughout the whole day. I feel for the teachers. I feel for the parents. Most especially, I feel for the kids. Let’s get back to normal!!! 🙏🏻

[@mrs.flores6620]

Yes. Thank you for your raw honesty. Emotions are up and down. We are all just tired and want this over. It does help to know we are not alone in our feelings about the mess that is now our lives. You are right about prioritizing your family over work. ❤️

[@Koolpets10]

Yes! I relate to you SO MUCH. With the amount of time that I see my students, I feel that I'm not teaching them everything that I need to. I'm in Washington DC and we're in a virtual model right now. It's so tough to balance home and school and unfortunately at this point it's not a balance. Thank you for being so honest, open, and relatable!

[@marielagonzalezortiz3833]

Hi Shelley! I feel the same way as you feel, just yesterday while I was waiting to be assigned to my zoom breakout room, the 3rd grade students whom used to be 2nd graders last school year, saw me and started to yell: "Miss Mariela!" "I miss you teacher" " I love you teacher" "I want to be in 2nd grade with you again", oh you can imagine, I started to cry and my heart felt 💔 cause I can't even give them a big hug. I don't like home schooling but I think we are all doing the best we can for the kids. Love you and love your work. You are the best! XOXO =).

[@kelseywhite2077]

I teach 2nd grade in NC. We are back in the classroom, but it comes with a list of stipulations, rules, and regulations. I have been having a hard time differentiation things for students. We aren’t allowed to do small groups, so whole group is what I have to do. It’s very frustrating to try and meet the student on their level and can be very stressful. I totally agree with your struggles. Sending positive vibes your way! 😊

[@shalawndudley2094]

I'm not a teacher, I'm a parent of a distance learner. I don't like it either, nor my 2 boys. We appreciate all the teachers. Your to do list is a mile long. Hopefully this will pass soon.

[@mjmurple]

I'm teaching a 2/3 blend in Oregon, online, and it's my first year teaching. I feel exactly the same way about teaching online. Thanks for sharing and being vulnerable with us. It helps to know that others are in the same boat and to get ideas of how to make curriculum virtual (even though that is so hard and does not work the way we would like).

[@writteninthird3722]

Arizona - virtual teaching I am definitely feeling the same! There are the days that go well but even on those days, I am constantly thinking about what I could be doing to make it better. We’re on week 6 and I have an ongoing to do list that keeps adding up. I have been learning to make sure that I complete what I can for each day and make a list of things that I don’t have to prioritize and can finish the next day. Anyway, It seems as though you’re doing a wonderful job with your students, it’s not going unnoticed!! ☺️💕

[@KeaLynn]

I’m Arizona and virtual too! It’s so hard 🥺

[@ms.johnsonteaches9245]

I feel the EXACT same way. I am a first year teacher in Northern CA as well. We are fully distant and it is SO hard. This is the hardest thing I have ever done and it my first year.

[@patriciadennis8993]

I started following you when I taught first grade and loved how real and personable you were. Even though I'm currently teaching high school biology for ESE students and the lower quartile, I still really enjoy watching your vlogs. I teach in Florida and our district adopted a concurrent teaching model where I have kids in the classroom and in Zoom at the same time. We're expected to provide the same instruction through both platforms. However, it seems impossible to give my remote learners the same attention when I have a classroom full of face to face learners. I understand your struggles with remote learning and I'm sending all the positive vibes your way! You got this!!!

[@alaylaende6937]

NY-all virtual! Thank you so much for sharing this!! I have been alternating between thinking this is getting better and crying every day. All my favorite parts about teaching are gone and it is hard and the prep time is unreal. I was at the place in my career that I was not prepping for hours a day anymore and I need to prioritize.

[@SancenMariel90]

Yes thank you for being completely transparent! I’m a first year 2nd grade teacher as well in Texas. Virtual learning is definitely more work. We’re doing virtual for 4 weeks. We are projected to be in person October 5th. It’s a lot, but we just gotta roll with it and take it one day at a time. It’s all we can do. These feelings are normal and we are not alone.

[@mct9111]

It's awesome that you are sharing- that keeps it SO real: grounds us & keeps it honest. Thank you! My school is further N than where you are. The school board let parents choose whether they wanted online or in person classes. So that being said most teachers opted to be in class. I, due to health reasons, am teaching from the school but in a portable far from ant gatherings. I have been teaching for over 20 years and got to be a talking face in KS for other remote schools. That being said, that was 2 years remote teaching for high school SO totally different: kids are independent & came in small groups of 4- 6 for each school= about 20 kids per class. My reality today over 25 kids in grade 1. And not only that size increase but I teach twice, in the am and in the pm with 2 other separate teachers. I teach the language component with Soc St & dance/Drama & my cohort does the Science, Math, Music & Phys Ed part. I agree it is crazy hard cramming everything in. I teach a full day 8:45- 3:15 (with a 45 minute prep ea. day) but it still feels overwhelming as we try to balance work & family life. I feel you because I have 2 elementary aged kids at home. Like you said its not for ever, but it feels rather overwhelming at times. This online stuff all day does not work well for young-lings. My greatest fear is grades.....yikes- that will be a great challenge! So hang in there & take it one step at a time, that is all we can do right now. Thanks once again for sharing-- that's what the job is all about!

[@marytidmore3133]

I stayed up until 3:00 this morning on a Saturday night trying to prepare for the week. I teach 5th and 6th (1st year teaching those-I cane from 2nd) ELA in Alabama and we are doing both virtual and traditional. Needless to say your video had me ugly crying but it’s also comforting to know that I’m not alone. I have two small children and there is just not enough time to get everything ready for everyone and JUST THE ACCESSIBILITY oh my goodness... I’m so over it, I’m so exhausted, and I so DID NOT SIGN UP FOR THIS but my babies still need me so I’m gonna keep going.

[@ninamarie07]

I love and appreciate that you shared your honest feelings. You are truly amazing. I’m three semesters away from student teaching and you are a huge inspiration to me.

[@tonyiaruddock7311]

Thanks for your honesty. You are not aloneI hope you were able to find a happy balance. Distance learning is extra. I sit in front of the computer most of the day, focusing on my work and supporting my son with his.

[@amysmith9635]

Teaching by distance in Ontario and I feeeeeeel you! It can feel so isolating teaching this way. I so appreciate you speaking your truth about how you are feeling, of course we all do our best to stay positive and put our best foot forward, but this all still sucks. Keep going Mama, you've got this! You're videos have been a big help to me and my colleagues. Thank you!

[@18amasters]

I teach in New Albany Floyd County schools in Indiana, and I teach first grade. The amount of hours we have put in this year have been INSANE! I am teaching traditional AND online or “hybrid” which is double the work. You are not alone. I think we as parents have to draw a line and just say enough is enough. I literally will work until 11 at night. People that aren’t in education have no idea the stress that we as teachers feel. You are not alone, and you are doing great! We are all in this together! And we do use benchmark, so thanks for the tip! Very helpful.

[@alexandrademartini7496]

Your feelings are totally valid. One thing I have thought about is it’s better for our kids to have a little bit of us, than nothing at all. Screen time with us is the best screen time they could be having. We also have been enjoying virtual field trips. It’s not great, and I’ve cried too, but those are the thoughts keeping me going.

[@teambeining]

Not a teacher, a mom who has elected virtual learning ~ My older daughter goes to a STEM Middle School, so they were set to do 100% virtual through Adobe Connect on iPads. They use an A/B day schedule so they have more time in each class. They are using Teach to One for Math. My 4th grader’s Catholic school had room to spread out, so they were 100% in class on Day 1. My daughter “attends” class through Google Meets. It’s nice because she can see her friends. She does her work and takes a picture of it to turn it in. The a Chromebook they gave her constantly kicks her out, so she uses her iPhone which works great. The only time I have to help her is when she doesn’t understand something. I went over how to take notes before school started, and it has helped her tremendously.

[@danielledelosreyes8346]

Second grade! Full distance learning, three hours a day synchronous. You summed up distance learning for me so flawlessly. I keep trying to articulate all these things but it is so hard to explain to people who don’t understand all the little, time consuming things that go into virtual teaching. THANK U. just hearing that we’re not the only ones feeling stressed and not good enough is ALREADY helping my soul!!!

[@lucianacaron1113]

You are such an amazing teacher... no matter what you do you always try so hard for your students and we need more teachers like you.... You are amazing and keep doing what you are doing because even though it may seem very stressful and you may think it is incredibly hard you are so stinking positive and I love your motivation to be who you are... You are such a great influence on me and keep doing what you are doing because we all love it and you!!!

[@caravand1]

I totally hear you! I teach in Canada and although we are back i the classroom (we have 1 case in our province) there are so many extra things we have to do! I felt exactly the way you were feeling when we did distance learning last school year. It wasn't what I signed up for, so much work, especially teaching little kiddos and you feel like your just a tv spitting out info at them. The fear of going back to distance learning is real. You're doing an amazing job and someday things will be (a new) normal again!

[@mr.kylecohen]

Friend... you are PREACHING to the choir. Thank you for speaking the truth and sharing what so many of us are feeling each and every day! We are lucky to have you!!

[@EarlyEDventures]

Mr. Kyle Cohen 😘😘😘

[@brittanyisaacs5718]

I teach first grade in Kentucky, we are currently virtual but will be heading back into the classroom on a hybrid schedule NEXT WEEK! Which I am super excited for but also very anxious about because if having to teach face to face and virtually at the same time 😬 100% understand how you’re feeling and feel the same exact way! Hang in there, girl! We’re all in this together!

[@erinnwilliams-wles6456]

Having served as a teacher's assistant for the past ten years, I worked my tail off to graduate this past May. I was hired to teach 3rd grade in late April and sat up my classroom over the summer. I used a lot of your videos as a guide. I love everything about your sweet spirit. Fast forward to early August. I get a phone call from my principal informing me I was being moved to the District's Virtual Academy and that I would be teaching virtually all year. Plot twist... I would now be teaching 4th grade. Long story short... I have 102 4th grade students over the course of 3 blocks. I am LIVE all day. As a first year teacher I am stressed, overwhelmed, and feel as if I work non stop. My husband and I are in the process of closing on our first home, trying to get pregnant, and I'm working on my masters. Thank you for your transparency and your honesty. It takes a village. Love and prayers from KY to CA! I totally get it.

[@alyssamendoza4933]

As a first year teacher, I completely understand how you’re feeling!! Thank you for always being transparent with us and showing how important it is to embrace these feelings during this crazy time❤️

[@anmichele3829]

I was homeschooled and now homeschool my daughter but watch all your videos! It’s so interesting to me how distance learning and public school works

[@mustloveelementary6189]

I’m teaching 3rd grade this year! I love it already and I seriously keep rewatching your 3rd grade videos for inspiration and motivation! We are doing a hybrid model. I have 15 in person everyday and 4 online everyday! It definitely has its challenges to find things that work for both in person students and virtual. Have grace with yourself this year and just know you’re doing amazing!

[@lilynu2830]

I'm a student intern in LAUSD this year teaching K I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and to top it off also doing my TPA's but I truly love what I do it's just like you mentioned having tools and making them accessible to students and families. This is a STRUGGLE to another level totally feel you emotions on that one. Sending you a bear hug❤

[@chelseaadams6195]

I’m currently a student teacher in Columbus Ohio and it is really hard. I feel for all of you who are going through this!

[@kaitlynbaur7167]

Teaching in Kansas, 25 weeks pregnant, new grade level, new school, new district, and remote till January. Our district keeps moving kids in and out... Literally the worst! After watching this I don't feel so alone. I am so sorry you have to deal with this with a new baby.! Sending you lots of love and prayer! We WILL get through this!

[@Jessica-tx9tx]

I feel you!!its so hard and not fun at all. I have 2 kids and don’t have the time to create all of these virtual presentations etc. in all my years of teaching, this is by far the hardest. Exhausted everyday. Headaches from the screen. Totally shot by Friday. Ugh! You’re not alone. I’m so grateful to have a job and do what I love, but this is craziness!

[@MrsBright]

We have onsite and virtual teachers at my school. Right now I’m virtual.... but that can change, actually Monday, because more students will return to the classroom face to face then. We were virtual for two weeks, then 50% capacity, 75%..., etc. until we get back to 100%. I’ve enjoyed virtual teaching.... and I haven’t. Thank you for being vulnerable with us! It makes me feel that I’m not in this alone. Thanks!!

[@mackenziescott4447]

I am in FL and teaching fully online. My situation is a bit different where we have to be on with the students 8:30-3:00. The prep is absolutely insane. I spend hours every night and weekend prepping the google slides, finding virtual activities and re-planning the lessons I’ve done in the past so that they work online. I feel every emotion you are feeling.

[@cdpesek]

You are not being selfish! If you don’t take care of yourself and your family, you will have nothing left to give your sweet students! Good for you for setting limits. I’m teaching in person in Oklahoma. We all have to wear masks in grades 3-12. My classroom is set up in rows with desks spread out. Although I don’t really like this at all, I’m so grateful to see my smiling 5th graders each day!

[@yashmindelossantos8736]

This is my third year of teaching and I am crying SOOOO MUCH. I didn’t even cry my first year! I used to teach high school Spanish and now I am teaching middle school (7th grade) ESL. We are 100% virtual, except for a handful of ESL and SpEd students who are in person. I am struggling to make virtual learning accessible to my students who don’t know English and don’t know how to work a computer. This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.

[@joycarcione6599]

You are not alone. This is a struggle. Your heart is in the right place with your family and your class.

[@jessicashaw1524]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I'm teaching in SC...we have been virtual for two weeks and now we are hybrid. I totally understand how you feel!

[@sabrinalong8335]

This is my 9th year teaching. I teach 5th grade in Lawrence, Kansas. We are currently in remote learning. It really resonated with me when you were talking about how time consuming making sure kids have ACCESS to content alone is. Sending good vibes your way!

[@caseylogs]

I am in my final semester of student teaching and even though I'm not doing all of the planning I am 100% with you! You are doing amazing for your students and they'll love you for it!!

[@0Puravida0]

I teach First Grade at a bilingual school in Peru and my school year started in March so I'm 6 months into distance learning! Ahhh Hopefully it doesn't last that long for you but if so I'm here from the "future" to say it gets better. The first couple of months were just survival mode and once I got into a rhythm I found more time for creative activities. Also I only have one hour live with each of my classes everyday and I was worried about classroom community just like you but the kids know each other and talk to each other now. Most of that is just thanks to time but two things that really helped me were 1- flipgrid so that they can interact directly with each other and 2-letting them chat/draw on the whiteboard as they come in to class early. You got this, we can do hard (like, really hard) things!

[@desireebillets8044]

I feel you sooooo hard right now! So much. Feeling about e-learning, the difficulty and frustration. Feeling needing a home work balance. I have 2 small children and I have to tell myself I’m enough and I need to make my family a priority. You are amazing. Keep shining! Illinois E-learning

[@priscillagriggs6233]

Hi! I’m a kindergarten teacher in SC and we are 100% in the classroom . I’m 100% overwhelmed as well. YOU’RE NOT ALONE. I’m also back in school (picked a great time to start that huh?) Trying to find a balance between work and personal time for my family is indeed a struggle but, we will get through it. Thanks for your transparency 😊

[@callyson1666]

Hi Shelley! I am actually in the same district as you! I teach third. It is not easy! You have to give yourself grace each day, which I certainly see you doing! Do what you can. In these times your students know you care and embrace the time with you. I know we are all looking forward to the times of collaboration and creativity we once had. Putting extra pressure on ourselves will only drain the strength from what we love doing. Keep doing what you love. It will shine no matter what!

[@jennadew07]

I feel exactly the same! I was teaching in class kindergarten but then switched to grade two because of covid numbers.. then after wrapping my head around that which was super new I've only ever taught kindergarten before.. i did that for two weeks and got switched to virtual kindergarten. And you are right its time consuming, its hard to keep them engaged and keep learning fun and accessible! Its hard teaching virtually but teaching in-class was also hard because of covid too!

[@katiecovert9590]

I’m a 6-8 special education teacher in Southern California and fully distance but teaching from my classroom and i 100% agree with you! Especially for my population of students i know they are not accessing the curriculum easily and are struggling. It is such a hard time and i can’t wait to go back, when it’s safe, so we can actually teach effectively!

[@sarahwilson6363]

Greetings from Sacramento, we appreciate all of you teachers making the best of what 2020 has in store for us

[@janawilson2741]

All. The. Things!!! Yes, girl! I'm feeling it! I teach in So Cal, kindergarten at a public school. I don't think I've ever worked harder. I absolutely dislike distance teaching. Not my jam. Keep it up....you are doing amazing! Thank you for your videos - I've learned some new tips (Labeling books on the back?!?!? Brilliant! I've been re-organizing my library since I have some "time"!), and enjoy your way of doing things. Love the colors of your room as well! 💚💙

[@melanyaho5713]

OMG I am so glad I watched this and heard your Benchmark DL tip! Thank you for sharing. My First Day was postponed because of fires....But, I am learning so much from watching other teachers who are going through the trenches right now. Thank you for sharing and forging this trail for others. Just keep doing the best you can everyday and then let it go and go home and hug your baby. They grow up so fast. I have 4 and they are in middle and high school. Teaching can consume you if you let it. Balance is right! No guilt. No regrets.

[@joesufff]

I definitely can relate to everything you said! I teach special education science in NJ. We're currently all virtual, even though we spent the last two weeks teaching from school (but the kids were at home). This is my seventh year teaching science, but this is my first year as a special educator. I have had those moments in September where I just broke down and felt like I was the worst special educator. What has helped me a lot is finding some people at work that you can trust to vent to! Also, I've realized that I don't get paid the big bucks to stress about remote learning and all the struggles that come with it (like the unknowns, technology, etc). I have developed the mantra "I can only stress about what I can control". Right now, my priority is just being a good human and teacher for my students to learn from. I just want them to enjoy coming to school, especially being 7th graders! Sorry for the long post, but I completely related to what you were talking about! Stay strong! You're doing AMAZING things!

[@sarahrunnels3885]

Bless you for all you do! Where I am we are finishing up our 1st full week of everyone being in person(unless they picked virtual learning)after a soft start. I personally have a 1st, 3rd,and 7th grader doing in person. Teachers at the highschool I work as an attendance clerk are doing virtual and in person classes... it is a mess.. have seen many of them cry trying to just deal with this "new normal " Know you are loved and you are doing an amazing job!

[@Kim-qu2yl]

You teachers are doing a great job. I have 2 kids in distance learning in Northern California as well and one is special needs and its hard on everyone involved. I am on the verge of pulling my kids but I love their teachers which makes it difficult. My advice as a parent of kids in DL, don't neglect your family and new baby just keep doing what you're doing. You're doing great im sure. This is not easy at all.

[@jolynnmellis799]

31st year. Nothing like learning new tricks! I teach half in the room and half remote simultaneously. Talk about challenging! I am working hard and spending every minute out of eat/sleep time in accessibility planning. I am determined to make this work. My mantra is “challenges become opportunities” but many days I have a hard time time holding on to that. Good to know I am not alone in how I am coping.

[@Airambeel23]

It's so nice to listen these words from someone else!! I am an English teacher in a bilingual school in Mexico, I just changed from kindergarten to 2nd grade. I love my job, I love what we do, but honestly to see my kids 2 hours each day, to teach on a second language, to try to motivate them to talk and participate, to build a class community, to teach more than academic stuff, to create material, to also be with my family, to have time to disconnect from the computer IT'S SO HARD!! Yes, I'm trying to br positive, yes this is temporary, yes I love what I do, but it is valid to say we are tired from this situation. Thank you for your videos I love them and they are helping me a lot!!!

[@lindsaymunro7791]

I am a 1st year teacher teaching 3rd grade virtually in MN. I'm obsessed with your channel normally but your transparency hit exactly in the feels today. I hate distance learning. It is the worst thing I've ever done. Everything is much harder and we already work so hard. I won't give up. I know there's a groove to find eventually. I too am leaning on my team (hard) and I cry a lot. But I keep showing up because they keep showing up. That being said, I don't care how planned I am for next week, I am going to my cabin this weekend and leaving my computer at school. For real though, use your tv to see the kids so you can see them the whole time! That helps you feel closer to them too cuz they're more human sized 😂😂 Also! I ordered a sample of Studies Weekly because you mentioned it in a previous video. And I love it. Thanks for sharing what you do. You help me feel like I'm not alone and I don't even know you. ♥️ Keep being awesome. We need you.

[@erino4781]

Thank you for being real. I’m feeling everything you’re are! Distance learning in NM. Thank you for the benchmark stuff! That’s amazing!!!

[@kathleenhickey2828]

You are doing a great job! I loved your video. I am an elementary school librarian, and I love to watch teacher vlogs. Great ideas spark for me for organization and such when I watch these. Plus sometimes I teach summer school, so I like to know about resources and such.

[@sarahseadonn]

I teach 2nd grade in Oregon. We are teaching online, with the possibility of moving to a hybrid model mid-year. I am completely overwhelmed and anxious. Between learning all the new technology, meetings, trying to plan engaging lessons, building virtual classrooms, individual family conferences...all while having a family during a pandemic and a wildfire emergency in my backyard. Knowing we're all in it together helps a little. It will get better, right?!

[@KeaLynn]

Same 😭 We got this!!!

[@ashleydavies1990]

Same girl! 2020 is just rough. I teach in New Orleans and we got hit with two hurricanes during distance learning. Just a mess.

[@heatherox96]

I 100% agree.. I teach in New Jersey and I am teaching hybrid, so virtually and in-person at the same time. It's been so difficult because I am doing what feels like triple the amount of work, and I still feel like I am not giving my best to either group (in-person or virtual). I work to make my lessons equitable and accessible to both groups until 9:00 at night and even then I feel like I'm failing. And on top of everything we are still in the middle of a pandemic and I have to make sure my first graders are wearing their masks correctly and keeping their distance which is extremely difficult. Thank you for speaking about this, it's so important for people to understand what we are going through and that it's okay if you are not super positive and upbeat this year.

[@LaaLunaax3]

That part about being a presenter!!!! I share the same sentiments. Thank you for the transparency. ❤️

[@jenniferhixon926]

Thank you so much for being so transparent. I’m a second year teacher in California. We are full distance learning. I moved schools this year, changed grade levels, then 3 weeks later changed grade levels again. It has been so exhausting and spirit breaking. We don’t have drop offs either, so everything is completely digital. I would love be able to provide my students with tangible work. I feel like there would be so much more engagement.

[@kathrynangus4598]

You beautiful human being. Love your authenticity and vulnerability. Yes YOU have to balance. Your son needs you. He will always be yours. Your students will move on and you clearly LOVE your students. Your energy is wonderful. ❤️ Be kind to yourself.

[@kellirieker7253]

I'm not a teacher I just enjoy your videos so much. This situation is so difficult and I hate it. I live in Florida and we were given the choice to go back or do virtual. So we have some teachers doing hybrid and some just teaching. Coming from a parent perspective this whole thing is just shitty for a lack of a better word. That being said from what I'm seeing in your videos you're doing amazing! You have been making the best out of a really crappy situation that none of us saw coming. Keep your chin up you are doing awesome! I pray that all of this will be over soon and all of the kids can be back in schools. Also your son is adorable and you don't have to explain your decision to spend time with him to anyone. Good luck!

[@xochitlmaldonado9600]

Thank you for your wonderful video. I teach in CA and we are completely remote teaching. You helped me so much by showing your Benchmark Universe sheets. I went online and found your resources and more. Thank you for mentioning that.

[@amandapolasik4658]

I teach 7th grade ELA through full distance learning to around 140 students in California. Thank soooo much for being honest about your feelings. I completely agree with your statement about is being “presenters” right now and not teachers. I will keep you in my prayers sweet lady. I loved your idea about making a “key” with talking points and annotations on a copy of your text. That will help me out soooo much. That way I keep track of what I have said to each group of my students I see. Chin up hearts up 🥰

[@bethellsworth100]

HI !!! I'm from northern New York and I teach first grade virtually. I have found that by leaning on my team members and being very honest with my administration, I have VERY slowly started to feel better with this new normal. Another thing that has helped greatly is prioritizing my sleep schedule. I am sure that a good sleep schedule is hard to maintain with a precious young child at home. Maybe as Cade gets older this year, your sleep schedule will improve, and it can positively influence how you feel or process stress. You have a lot on your plate right now and I have the upmost respect for you and what you are doing. One day at a time.....

[@Coral_Forever]

Grade 2 is an awesome age to teach! I know it is new to you, but by the end of the year, you will be so glad that you have taught this grade level!

[@andreagarza6105]

Texas. We are currently virtually but we will be opening in October, students are given the option to stay at home so we will be teaching live and digitally at the same time, so it’s about to get even more interesting. I teach 9th and 10th grade and they struggle, I can’t imagine with little ones. I totally get what you feel and that’s because I don’t have kids!! Stay positive, you are a great teacher and we will get through this and at the end of the day we can only do so much. I believe that being a strong supporter of our students is the most important thing right now. I wish you the best this year!

[@toastygnocchi]

I know life is tough right now, but on a positive note the channel is so close to 100k! I joined back when you did the classroom setup for 6th grade & it’s amazing how well you adapt to life. I cannot relate, lol. ♥️

[@sanros6811]

Thanks for telling us about the DL component for Benchmark! My district (Hayward Unified in SF Bay Area) just adopted it but I've been hesitant to start it because I'm overwhelmed as it is. I work ALL the time now. Hang in there, Shelley!

[@oneydachavez]

Hi Shelley! I'm teaching in Washington DC. I work in a dual language school. I teach 1st grade ELA and God do I understand you! We are all virtual but since it is dual language, we are online for a total of 5 hours. It is soooo much work! I truly feel like I don't have a life and this is consuming me completely! We will definitely get through this we just have to keep pushing and stay as positive as possible. Good luck!

[@NickiNoor]

Hey Shelley, I totally get you! I'm in Canada and our students right now were able to opt for online or face to face (though our cases are starting to rise again, so these students might be online again soon. Since I was hired specifically for online, I'm at home trying to make random spaces in my home work, with absolutely NO materials to work with. Also, I was changed from grade 7 to grade 6, LITERALLY at 10:00 pm the night before school started. To say I'm stressing is an understatement. This is so unbelievable, and like you I have no idea how to make this engaging. Oh, the stories we'll have to tell once this is all done!

[@deborahboyce2934]

Thanks so much for verbalizing how hard virtually teaching is to do. I teach in NC, 6th Grade with a set curriculum that is very collaborative so we have to readjust it to remote learning. We started 2 weeks early with many students who still did not have internet since March. Starting this week-week 6, I think almost all students will have a computer and internet. Many students' internet just doesn't support this type of engagement. I also feel like we are just presenters and the kids just tune out. I don't have small children but we are teaching from 8:30am to 2:30pm with 3-5 minutes in between our classes and a short lunch break. Then meetings until 4pm everyday with staff meeting every Wednesday. I am so exhausted that I don't have the energy to make it better which in turn makes me anger, sad, and frustrated. I love teaching! Spending my weekend on KZbin trying to find better ways to educate out future citizens. Next we have to it concurrently, with students in the class and remote.

[@traciwillis4477]

Stop apologizing for sharing how you feel and being upset! It’s nice to know I am not alone! I LOVE your blog and ideas! I have found myself excited when you post new ones. I feel so tired right now and it gives me a little something something when I get 10 or 15 minutes to relax. My mind is always a whirlwind! I am in Missouri. Small rural school. First week Covid hot and then out two weeks. We are now in again...so I take day by day and pray A LOT! My in-laws who are in their 80’s have had Covid this last couple weeks. We think we are safe where we are and people are attending high number events. Well...this is how it is now. Your little baby and family should take priority and it’s great you set limits. I LOVE Your blog. Keep them coming! PLEASE! It’s my sanity right now.

[@LL-ln5sw]

This will be my 6th year teaching 4th grade..15 yrs total in education. From southern California. 23 students split into AM then PM cohorts. 100% distance learning model. I totally understand and agree with you on how distance learning makes you feel like a presenter. Im not a big fan either. Student collaboration is definitely different. I too have juggle work and family with little ones. It’s tough. I guess I’m just getting through the pandemic madness with the mentality of choosing to “dance in the rain” instead of “waiting for the rain to stop.” All I can say is stay strong. You have students who look forward to seeing you each day. Good luck...

[@rebeccasaxton4354]

First year teacher in Oregon here! I was asked to be a full time online teacher for the whole year so I’m online no matter what. We aren’t starting school until Friday due to the wild fires but I’m feeling the same way. I’ve met several students and just feel sad because I know I won’t ever be able to see them in person. 💔 Feeling like I should do more but can’t possibly do more. Thank you for being open and honest!

[@AMessyBunTeacher]

I am in Tennessee and we are in person. I've cried more this year than the past 6 years of teaching 😭

[@brittanyzoratti4168]

Virtual Teaching in Alberta Canada. Grades 1-3. TALK ABOUT OVERWHELMING. Love watching your videos to spark some ideas! You're doing such an amazing job! I am also putting together At-Home Learning bundles (drop offs) and I feel like that has helped me so much. Knowing that the students have a good 50 -50 ratio of digital work and pencil to paper. Parents are also happy with that. One thing I do when I teach in the classroom is Morning Work booklets...it's like number of the day and calendar concepts. So, that is one of the booklets that are sent home each month. I'd love to know all the specific things you put in your drop-off bundles :)

[@justjulie9071]

I am feeling all those things too. It's a rollercoaster. Every single day is a struggle. I'm in North Dakota. We're hybrid right now, but we're going to go fully online any day now because our county is getting hit hard with Covid Cases.

[@briannalysne7973]

I feel this. I’m a first year teacher and a mom. I’m in Las Vegas full distance. There is so much extra placed on teachers right now creating materials for online and I just don’t have the time. Thanks for voicing what we are all feeling.

[@virginiajohnston9463]

1st grade VA... we are virtual until sept 29 when we go back face to face and I cannot WAIT! I 100% agree with all of what you said! We’re making it work but it stinks and I want my kiddos back in person!