SAYING GOODBYE TO CLASSROOM TEACHING → WHY I QUIT MY JOB | Resigning, Healing & Outschool Update

[@ambergodbolt9599]

"There is no prize for the person with the most burn out" 💯💯💯

[@KristensClassroom]

8 months later and it's still SO true! Going to pin this comment

[@ambergodbolt9599]

@@KristensClassroom YES...exactly why I'm leaving my current employer for a new job in 2 weeks...✌️ out burn out!

[@Richard-vq7ud]

Broken dreams are hard to take.

[@stacy-annreid2488]

Your hair looks nice. I understand your concerns.

[@carollee6963]

I went through what you went through in education. I gained weight, went on blood pressure medicine, and was stressed to the max. I had mental and physical health issues as well. All I did was live to work instead of work to live. I realized I am responsible for my own happiness and health. I left the teaching field for a 40 hour work week. I walk every day now and eat so much better. No more stress eating. I'm relaxed and I actually get to spend some time in the sun.

[@4star62]

Yup

[@Ohiomillers3]

Miss Basore - my kids loved every minute of being your students for 2 years at our school. The musicals and performances were so fun to watch and to see how much the kids had grown in love for music and also their talents! Our school will not be the same without you. Your dedication to your craft and the students did not go unnoticed. To be a school teacher right now has got to be one of the hardest jobs and you left with grace and dignity. We miss you!!

[@UnpopularOpinionByNkiruka]

I worked in healthcare and quit that career as a RT to go into teaching so I worked as an aide to get my feet wet and go back to college to finish my degree so I could teach and have my own classroom. Boy was I wrong! I learned sooooooo much about the way the education industry especially at the primary level that I was heartbroken what I was seeing and experiencing. I was in shock!!!! I didn’t know all this was going on until I was able to be inside. I saw illegal things going on as well and it was not just at the school and district I was in but across many others as well by those who spoke on their experiences. I decided that teaching was not for me not because of the students but the system that is was ran by. Man, teachers need a pay raise immediately and the minimum should be 100,000 and bonuses all the time to encourage these teachers and get them the HELP they need to be successful!

[@sophiaentzminger5011]

I think we have the same story. I quit my job as a Resp Therapist, and started teaching Spanish this year. Like you, I was in total shock on what happens in schools, and what teachers go thru, and how draining it is for pennies as pay. I wanna finish my year contract, and run. Teaches deserve soooo much more!!!

[@jrodamores87]

"THERE IS NO BONUS OR REWARD FOR THE TEACHER WITH THE MOST BURNOUT!" ...... oooooff!! That hit me hard girl. Thank you for sharing!

[@KristensClassroom]

Even 2 years later, that video still gets to me :)

[@patricelevels3001]

Everything she is saying is 100% true! I’m wishing that the summer days slow down because come August the grind starts again for us teachers to return to the high demands and expectations from the top down! Teacher trying to be strong ❤️

[@filmfam7244]

I hated that Sunday night feeling and never being able to switch off or feel good enough

[@shykat2218]

If you are enjoying a full summer schedule consider yourself lucky. Where I am the school district started putting workshops in the summer and then, making it mandatory attendance. So, on our own time these workshops were required that we attended. If it were just a one day workshop that would be fine. These were workshops that would last the entire week. This did get old rather quick. This went on for the last several years that I taught. The really sad part was that the topic never really applied to the music teachers but, our attendance was required.

[@stephanienewton6618]

I was having panic attacks in the classroom the last semester I was teaching B&M. I now look back and realize I didn’t press the eject button soon enough and moving forward I’ll be quicker to exit a situation that is taxing my mental or physical health.

[@KristensClassroom]

I hope I inherit the ability to step back faster should I find myself in a situation like this again. I hope you've found ways to improve your physical and mental health! That's my first step towards whatever is next :)

[@memathews]

From what friends tell me, I see that teaching becomes thier identity, and they teach with passion and care. But that same passion leads to management abuse and burnout. All work is just a job. If one remembers that, then the perspective remains healthy and safe. (I've been guilty of the same passion for work (B2B marketing) and so have many others.)

[@nwatson2773]

Indeed. I became anxious and depressed. It’s not worth it!

[@alanparedes2034]

I have high blood pressure from teaching.

[@shykat2218]

I was just reading the first sentence of your blurb and actually thought I was reading my own. I did develop panic attacks after I started teaching. As the stress increased so did my panic attacks. In mt last position my panic attacks were the worst I had had. I was put on a stronger medication and while that tapered them down it was just too stressful. I ended up leaving. The day I knew that I bit off more than I can chew. I was the announcer for the half time portion for out team. I knew when to start the announcement based on a music cue. I did not know that the press box was going to be sound proof and they created a problem. I waited too long. But I was afraid if I did not make the announcement I would hear it so, I made them. After the I finished and went down to be the group the head band director pulled be aside and yelled, yes, yelled at me for making that mistake. I told him the press box was sound proof. He informed me that I would never do it again since I could not do it right. What was even worse- I was old enough to be his mother- a pure lack of respect. I knew the year was going to be rough. It was. The pay was the best I had made in 34 years but, the stress of being treated so poorly was not worth it. At the end of my year I realized that he had lied to the his principal about me. He told his principal some lies about me. Since I decided to leave my job and the district it just did not matter anymore. I have never spoken to those people since.

[@Gleem1313]

This is absolutely my story, but it took 20 years to quit because the profession has changed quite a bit insofar as creativity and autonomy was concerned. I also lost a marriage to teaching as well. (Both of us were pretty driven.) I would love to do Outschool. Hard to keep myself motivated to create content for middle school, especially as an ADHD person. I hope to figure it out soon. Thanks for being so real about this. Teaching absolutely gaslights us, calling us “family” etc. to guilt teachers into doing way more than is healthy. It’s truly sad. I miss the kids.

[@lindaedwards9354]

This retired teacher understands every word!!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Linda 💙💙💙

[@MarisaMay]

This is year 23 of teaching and 8th year 100% online. My husband just resigned his teaching job to work virtually with me this year. Woohoo!!! #teacherstrong

[@KristensClassroom]

That's awesome! Was it a hard transition to go 100% online?

[@MarisaMay]

@@KristensClassroom Somewhat... I did two years of working both B&M and virtual teaching in order to make the transition smoother for me. Then, once we decided that my husband would join me, it took us 2 years to grow to the point where we could sustain 2 incomes online. I wish you all the best. I love working virtual and do not anticipate going back to B&M teaching.

[@sharronrutz2743]

@@MarisaMay do u work for a company?

[@MarisaMay]

@@sharronrutz2743 I adjunct for schools and then freelance with curriculum writing. I've done VIPKid and online tutoring as well.

[@shykat2218]

Are you able to still find online work? I did some in 2020 before the Chinese Minister of Education shut a lot down. I am still hoping to get back into that.

[@onlineteacherdude1284]

Kristen, this video is GOLD and will help so many teachers. This was hard for you to film but it really shows your heart, passion and raw emotion. You are the real deal and I am so excited to see what's next for you! #teacherstrong. This video needs to go viral!

[@tiffanybaskerville3846]

As teachers we give and give and give and give and sadly received nothing in return. It is always the teachers fault when things hit the fan. You did the right thing. We all must prioritize ourselves and our families.

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Tiffany - I agree!

[@Jessalyn032]

100%

[@ashleycreely6771]

You ARE healing. Teaching can be traumatic under good conditions. That’s why so many of us have chosen this particular point in history to make our exit. All the love and encouragement from one recovering general music teacher to another. ❤️

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you so much for your message! Where are you working these days?

[@ashleycreely6771]

@@KristensClassroom I am finishing out the 2021-2022 school year, and hoping to be a homeschooling mom next year. My admin has been super-supportive! My five children deserve everything I have, not just what I have left over at the end of the day. It took me 17 years to get to that core belief, but better late than never!

[@marisacaron]

Kristen, you’re not alone. I am a preschool teacher and I am leaving for a new job outside of the classroom. I’m a shell of the teacher I was! It’s a terrible feeling. Congratulations on doing what is best for you. Wishing good health and happiness to all of us teachers!!

[@angiewolf8189]

I left public school after 25 years. I gave private school a go....realized I was just done. Teaching was no longer what I signed up for as a 23 year old educator. I consider myself retired now. I teach virtually as a hobby and to make travel cash. I'm in my 50's and managed money well. I'm totally debt free and can travel on my hobby income. Never did I ever think I'd leave teaching. Wasn't money but respect. Best of luck to you. I know you'll succeed in any life journey.

[@sophiaentzminger5011]

Congrats. That's what I wanna do, with a little to travel. :)

[@tiffscozycloset]

I resigned. A weight lifted. I applied and was hired last week as an elementary school secretary. Can’t wait to start in August!

[@TeacherMariePh]

Kristen!!! You have no idea how much I can relate to everything that you've shared here. I'm at the edge of resigning also but as a breadwinner, I'm left with no option but to stay and try to survive. I'll be back here soon and hopefully... resigned by then already. For now, do know that I'm proud of you.

[@lauraberscheit]

Kristen, you echoed my story exactly! I felt my throat welling up as you told your story. You are amazing! Thank you for the reminder that there are no bonuses or rewards for the teachers with the most burnout. Thank you for sharing that you felt sorry for people that you talked to outside of teaching and that you did not like the person you were becoming under the immense pressure and intensity of your. workload. You most definitely are not alone. God bless you as you enter your next chapter! :)

[@j.c.gentry6450]

Girl, you and I had similar experiences....I, too, was a K-8 Music Teacher who made the decision to leave the classroom after this year. It was a difficult decision, but my physical, mental, and emotional health were taking a severe toll, so I knew that I needed to take a break....I may go back to full teaching someday, who knows? But, for now, I am going to be substitute teaching and pursuing another dream that I've been wanting to do for a while...becoming a personal trainer. I enjoyed your video very much! #teacherstrong

[@mrs.rogersneighborhood]

So many of us can relate. I hated leaving my kids as well, but I was NOT in the right place emotionally, physically, mentally…and I knew that I couldn’t be the Teacher that my students really needed me to be.

[@cassandragarcia2581]

When I was in 8th grade, my choir teacher left mid-year. I went to college for teaching. I get it now. I hope she is doing well and living her best life. I wish the same for you as well. It is hard to step away.

[@learningSpanish_EngSraRamirez]

So after watching that video, I must say you absolutely did what you needed to do for your mental health. You should have been making a 6 figure salary for all the work that you did. Same for all B & M teachers who survived the pandemic. Kudos to all of you. You truly were doing the work of 5 people.

[@snowps1]

I had to pull my kids out of Catholic school after 7 years because that first year of middle school was so toxic. We had a bad principal who tried to be pals with the bad kids instead of giving them proper discipline. My son was bullied all year, by a new bully and an old one who joined together. Then during the spring musical practice a lot of the kids, including his friends from over the years, started picking on him for being short. They teased him constantly and told him no one liked him. They stopped talking to him and playing with him. It was horrid. He became so depressed and begged to stay home every day. He refuses to go back to that school so we're trying cyber school this fall. I think a huge part of the problem is sleep deprivation. The catholic schools in my area are very rigorous academically so a lot of homework and projects. Plus sports, band, chorus, play practice. These kids did play practice 3 days a week after school for 2 months. They wouldn't get home till 7:30 or 8:00, and then they would still have to sit down and do all of their homework. And even during the week of the play which had two showings during the week they still had homework to do after the play each night. It was awful. So the bad kids just got worse, and kids who were normally well behaved started acting up and being jerks to everyone too. Kids are just overworked and over scheduled these days.

[@KristensClassroom]

*2022 Teachers, I'm seeing more and more views and feedback on this video so I want to do a 10 month update. If there are things you'd like to see or know, let me know* :)

[@janies-c2260]

Teacher Strong- I think ( in my opinion) that school system administrators need more extensive training in supporting staff . Qualified leaders are needed!

[@KristensClassroom]

💙💙💙

[@janjensen2048]

Thank you for speaking the whole truth. I returned to one day a week hybrid teaching and cried many times.

[@janjensen2048]

It was so lonely and overwhelming for all of us teachers. I was a drama teacher for 30 years and loved it but my mental and physical health were suffering. I loved the students as you did. You are incredible You are finding creative ways to share your passion for the arts with students.

[@KristensClassroom]

This pas year is one I hope we teachers never have to repeat!

[@KristensClassroom]

@@janjensen2048 Thank you! I just do my best to keep the arts going for them (especially this past year)

[@janjensen2048]

This is an incredible video. Take the time. You have helped so many of us

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Jan! I will also send you a starbucks gift card as well :)

[@janjensen2048]

@@KristensClassroom please keep that Starbucks card and treat yourself on me so to speak. I am still interested in Outschoo coaching if you are still doing that.

[@anniewilcox7549]

I am also leaving teaching this year, and I am so sad! Your video resonated. I'm hoping Outschool will be a way for me to stay connected to teaching. Thanks for sharing!

[@godsunrelentinglove]

you are my new hero and inspiration! you voice many of our issues, mentalities, and frustrations so well! thank you for your courage and example!!

[@Iwenttothewoods1379]

When you said you felt like you were failing not because you failed but because of weight put on your shoulders that was unbearable. The straw that broke the camels back. Patience gone. Soul shadowed. Your light and love is as clear as a diamond with one single stream of light projecting into a rainbow leading towards a better more hopeful future path. 💎💕

[@Authentic-Israelite]

Thank you for your honesty. I’m in the burnout stage and you’ve articulated exactly what I’m feeling. Thanks!

[@cmomoffive]

I know it too well! I've been a specials teacher and a classroom teacher this past year and it was rough! So rough! You are not alone!

[@sandragordon6219]

I left teaching a while ago. Waaay before pandemic times too. Way too much anxiety not thinking I’m doing enough. Getting pulled here and there and not giving my classroom what they needed Many other reasons too love u

[@gisellemadera-rodriguez7319]

So happy you are putting yourself first❤Self care is so important.

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks! It took me a really long time to figure that out!

[@lorrenamanda]

Teacher strong ❤️ Thank you for sharing. So helpful to know others have experienced some of the same struggles. I just finished my 24th year and the past 2 years really took a toll on me and my personal life.

[@KristensClassroom]

Lorren, that's amazing! I couldn't imagine doing 24 years of teaching! That's incredible!

[@stevenabrams5811]

My son was a cart teacher for 14 years straight. Herbert was happy to do it, now he finally got a classroom after 16 years in the same Urban School.

[@karla5227]

Kristen... You have tried so hard.. I am a UK teacher and thoroughly relate to your situation.. I am an old old(!!) teacher now and am retiring this year. I have felt so bad for all you lovely young teachers coping with this awful pandemic..all YOUR youthful dedication and enthusiasm dealt such a terrible blow by the stress of it all... Keep going, keep strong... You are ALL such heroes and should be soooo much more appreciated and supported than you are...

[@senorasarahCDMX]

I gained about 25 lbs in the pandemic, too. We can get it off! You can do it!

[@godsunrelentinglove]

I had so much enthusiasm for the content, the students, the community, everything just 2.5 years ago. Now in the middle of my 3rd year, I’m done. Done with terrible leadership, overbearing parents, time wasting meetings and more!

[@letsgowithe-ro1646]

#TeacherStrong This video is perfect and exactly how MANY teachers are feeling right now! I made this very difficult decision in July 2020 and left my b&m teaching job. I cried over it for weeks, before & after, submitting the paperwork. And like you said, I felt terrible that I was walking away from my school family/team... we were all in this life of teaching together and here I was walking away from them, but it was what I felt I had to do for my own and my family's health during a pandemic. The burnout of classroom teaching never ends, pre-pandemic I would go in super early every day and stay until it was dark outside, I brought work home with me in the evenings and on weekends- I literally never felt like I could stop, there was always work to be done and I always felt like I was behind. Going into a new school year DURING a pandemic I knew would not be something I could do. So I did what I had to, and for weeks I felt ashamed and really struggled to even tell my coworkers because I felt like I was abandoning them in what would be the hardest year of teaching yet. You are definitely not alone and you are supported in your decision! I have been teaching on Outschool since September 2020 and I will be continuing this year as well, because I am able to do what I love and not be constantly working and neglecting myself.

[@christinawitek7099]

Teacherstrong I have so many similar feelings! I have been teaching 15 years and want to find something else. I completely felt that everything fell back on the teacher which was HARD! Best of luck to you!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you, Christina! I hope things get easier for you too! :)

[@ThrivingNotDying]

Have you looked into becoming an Instructional Designer? Thank you for sharing your story.

[@KristensClassroom]

Ironically, that's my job title now :)

[@vickyramos6849]

Sending you a big hug. You're experience is so relatable. I'm so grateful for your presence, for your genuine heart and brutal honesty. God Bless You!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Vicky! :)

[@EH-oz7ic]

"And even though cases are rising, we keep going back in person" "masks on doing our best, worried about our families and friends" It was the most terrifying year of my life. Yes, I signed up to be a teacher. I never signed up to be a medical professional and certainly was not afforded anywhere close to the PPE or cleaning support that hospitals have. Teachers are major unsung heroes through all of this, and I hate to say it but it's not over. You did the right thing Kristen, and I am trying to keep as many options open with side hustles.... Nothing else really provides the health benefits though-puts us between a rock and a hard place

[@gagirlcd]

Teacher strong! This is such a powerful video. I wish that school systems could even watch this and realize that the system is broken. I love your videos and you are so inspiring. I am so happy for you as you chart this year!

[@kathrynmountz4547]

You are incredible and very creative. I know you will be successful in everything you set your mind to. Best of luck with your new path.

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Kathryn! It's going to be quite a transition in August when all my teaching friends are setting up classrooms, but one day at a time

[@hannah1389]

I completely feel you!! I was about to go into my fifth year this year, but I quit. I quit for mostly the same reasons as you. I gave so much and I had nothing left to give. I had a baby 8 months ago. I would come home from work and have nothing left for him. I could barely get off the couch. I just couldn’t do it anymore working 12 hour days and getting absolutely nothing in return.

[@lisettegutierrez7132]

Thank you for sharing, I left the classroom back in 2015.

[@KristensClassroom]

What made you leave? Was it a difficult transition?

[@lisettegutierrez7132]

@@KristensClassroom they did away with the reading pull out program and I didn’t want to go back into the regular classroom to teach all subjects. I really love to teach reading and writing and not all other subjects lol! I miss teaching reading for sure or ESL students. I know there are lots of ESL companies to wrk for but I’m not for waking up super early before my FT job and I’m AZ time.

[@nwatson2773]

I quit teaching in 2018. Went back for 4 months to make ends meet in 2021 and now I’m working as a school counselor! I would not recommend teaching for anyone older than their twenties. It’s a thankless job with poor compensation, a lack of respect and no job growth unless you leave the classroom!

[@KristensClassroom]

I agree! :)

[@abbyabroad]

Fascinating! I started a decade before you and am still going, but am headed out next year. So interesting to hear about your experiences.

[@scottconnuck2632]

You so remind me of myself! When I first started teaching, I had by far the largest school in the district. Therefore, I had to squeeze five sections of each grade music K-5 twice per week, which translates to 60 classes per week. It was my first year, and I happily fit in eleven classes per day... giving up my lunch period to fit everyone in twice per week AND teaching chorus twice per week. I did this for years before I said, "Enough is enough!" So, I went back to school to get my classroom certification. Up until four years ago, I've been teaching classroom. In 2018 I was hired in a new district teaching music K-12 and loving it. This is my 37th year teaching public school, and am in no hurry to retire. That being said, I was so blessed to have different certifications... so whenever I felt it impossible to continue in one area, I was able to switch to another. I must say... if I were a new teacher, I would not have remained in the profession. You did the right thing!

[@amyalderete4837]

I am a K-5 Art teacher and new mom. This year has me more burned out than the remodel year and last year. The demands are even bigger. I love my students, but I no longer feel fulfilled by my job. I am looking at leaving.

[@KristensClassroom]

I'm so sorry to hear that Amy :(

[@KristensClassroom]

Take care of yourself

[@josephletner5066]

*Virtual hug* this needed to be said!! And you said it well.

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you, Joseph! :)

[@karenkingrey6142]

Definitely Teacher Strong! Lol with or without Starbucks caffeine! Girl, YOU are the rockstar by not only giving so much of yourself to your students, but realizing when enough was enough! I applaud you for your honesty and compassion. 😉❤️

[@lashaevogelpohl4892]

Girl! You are not alone. I was in a bad work situation that put me in this same head space you are talking about because I couldn't disconnect and my health was dwindling.... And this was before covid... I quit in 2019 and started vipkid.... You have to take care of yourself. Me staying in a bad situation was not going to help the kids. I loved my kids and loved teaching but I couldn't give them what they needed because of upper management and my anxiety and stress level.

[@hesconnie]

Thank you, thank you and thank you ☺️ I needed to hear it’s okay and will be okay putting our health and family first.

[@IToldYouSo123]

TEACHER STRONG! I sooo admire you!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you! :)

[@ashleyhall609]

I completely understand and agree with you 100%! So much pressure and expectation falls on classroom teachers. Do what you have to do to take care of yourself! God bless you and every hard working teacher out there! 🙏🏻❤️

[@teresagallo8420]

Take the time you need! Excellent video! Teacher strong!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you, Teresa! :)

[@TeacherKellyTag]

Teachers strong! Sounds like you really needed this. I don’t know how you kept up with all your side hustles with all that you had going on. The types of classes you teach on Outschool are the type that’ll do well even when most go back to school. Good luck and sorry for all that you went through❤️. Such a powerful video. Thanks for sharing 😊

[@MichaelVenn]

Wow Kristen! Having never been a B&M teacher myself I honestly had no idea that teachers were being asked to do THAT much. You’re a rockstar and a true inspiration for other educators. Keep on shining bright! 💫 #teacherstrong

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Michael! You're the best!! I hope you do another PodCast season this fall!! :)

[@susankenna7667]

You have no idea what extra non paid duties teachers have.

[@maddie8998]

I'm going into my first year of teaching this fall...thank you for the reminders about work-life balance, signs of burnout, and to have HOBBIES outside of school!

[@reclaiming.teaching]

I have great respect for your raw emotions. I was so glad I took a leave for 2020-2021 and then by April I took the leap and resigned... after 18 years as a career substitute teacher. Now... the stress of sending my kids back after a year and four months of being at home. Sharing your video with my friends. Not too many people are talking about how difficult a school year it was. I think they’ll appreciate your candor.

[@christinegreen3974]

Great video! I think so many of us create our identity around teaching and it's more common than in many other professions. I mean, how many of us find stuff to buy for our classrooms while grocery shopping?!? I taught in a variety of elementary positions for 18 years. I worked on a PhD in education part-time and taught teacher education courses at 2 colleges for 4 years. This was piecing together a lot of part-time work and it just drained me. This year in moving to a district PD and Curriculum position at a local school, I'm hoping to find some balance - and a full-time college position in the next couple years. The other part of me is thinking I just need an entirely new profession 😆

[@KristensClassroom]

Christina, I think you're absolutely right. I completely identified as a teacher and lived through my job title. I hope you do find balance in the education realm!! :)

[@kaylafixesthefunk5641]

Thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for students. I applaud you for standing up for yourself and quitting. 🎉 I also was a teacher for 8 years and quit public teaching after the 2019-2020 school year. I now teach with Prenda School and very part-time on out school while also being a mom and wife. Thank you for your content and I look forward to your new videos with your new career path ☺️

[@susank.4945]

I actually started during summer 2020, was abroad and then online before that. I'm dual certified but I'm doing better with private and other work due to anxiety and depression last spring. Saw the newest vids, glad its going much better now.

[@TheChroniclesofTeacherTay]

I am SO proud of you, and my heart is truly with you! You have put your heart and soul into these past few years and this next chapter is stepping forward, not back. I cannot wait to see what’s next, and I hope this video truly inspires so many teachers having gone through the same ❤️ teacher strong!

[@menvicstudio]

Completely felt your pain. It's great to prioritise you. Jobs come and go no matter what field one is in.

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you! Are you a teacher too?

[@menvicstudio]

Yes. I am a music teacher.

[@teacherlena6194]

Teacher strong! Girl, you are amazing! Thanks for sharing your story.

[@meganmcgahee261]

teacher strong 💪 so proud of you! my sister and one of my best friends are teachers, and i've seen the toll this past year has taken on them. good for you for prioritising your students, mental health, and embracing a creative side!

[@lisamarklecreates]

Oh my gosh Kristen, your videos haven't been popping up on my feed, I think I accidentally was using two accounts haha, but I just saw you on Tim's channel and came over here to catch up on your videos and this one has me in tears, I can seriously feel your stress and desperation! I quit teaching from burnout four years ago, and I can't imagine how hard this has been for teachers. Especially someone so passionate, organized, and ambitious as you! For it to have broken someone like you, it had to be horrendous. You're a rock star Kristen!!

[@KristensClassroom]

Hi Lisa! Thanks! It was definitely a rough chapter in life, but I'm excited to start this new chapter online 💙💙

[@KristensClassroom]

PS hope you're doing well

[@BiblicalHomeschoolFaith]

1:15😉yes we did see this coming. Phew😅take a breath💕you’re doing great and congrats to the new chapter. Let’s turn the page 📖and see what happens in this story ✌️ I love online teaching and it dovetails with my former work as a health and life coach☺️💕 Thank you for all your help you share with us🥰

[@BiblicalHomeschoolFaith]

Teacher strong ✌️

[@stevenabrams5811]

Your an inspiration to many. The mental health is important to keep going forward in any job. I do substitute teaching and this coming year I turned down a full time position teaching. And I am eligible for longtime positions if I want them. Now in my life I work a high stress job as a purchasing analyst for a large utilities. And I was glad to take the early retirement buy out.

[@stevenabrams5811]

In life, real world, things happen to change one path or future. I’ll explain: i been was in the military before I even turned 17, that was going to be my career. I was an aircraft mechanic for 26 years, obtain my A&P (airframe and power plant) license just after returning from Vietnam in 1973, fast forward until 1983, when I was shot down and shot in Lebanon 10/83 woke up in January ‘84 that I would never walk again, well that’s a shock to ones mind. Four weeks laterI managed to get out of the bed and a slow hanging on to walls rails etc. But now my life has changed forever, I could no longer fly, or work on aircraft in the military and was forced out on a disability retirement. I had to re invent myself, got working on my BA. Applied to the IRS and began doing audits, discover I was good with numbers, and finding errors in a tav return. Got my degree in Business management. I was very depressed and I applied to a jet manufacture to work on small parts, I was work nights there, days at IRS and going to weekend classes. On 1/06/89 the plant was shut down, June of ‘88 I quit the IRS, so now I am unemployed two kids married, and mortgage. So I applied by snail mail to air craft companies through out the US, and got hired in Texas working on Trust Reversers for jets, finished my second degree, and got an office job with the City of San Antonio, Five years later my supervisor went to the Utility Company and during the interview, he called me to send over my resume, and got hired over the phone for the Purchasing Analyst which I worked at for 16.5 years. And took the early buy out package because I burned out from stress. Life throws curves, and we go with what’s best for our mental health, physical health etc. your going to be OK

[@tracyl8]

Making it all the way through the video wasn't a task, Kristen. It was a time of solidarity, of support and of understanding. Big hug from over here in England.

[@Tecknowledgy]

Between ongoing administration pressures, not getting along with colleagues, other issues, after 4 years I think I am going to start looking elsewhere. I am looking for my fourth school in 5 years. It’s not fun anymore.

[@SneakySalamander13]

I started teaching in 2019-2020. This is my 3rd year in Teaching and it is TOO Much. I keep being told that I haven't had a normal year and Teaching will be better the longer I am in it, but things just keep getting worse. I just got diagnosed with ADHD and maybe the meds will make things more manageable, but at this moment? This will be my last year teaching unless things get magically better. It is all too much.

[@performingartseducator]

This is year 27 this year. I still audition as a VO talent, film actor, sing in the choir, and teach. It's a lot Kristen. I'm glad that you are taking care of yourself. I'm also K-8 in a performing arts school. You have changed my life for the better. I was teaching VIPKID in the summer of 2019 before the pandemic so I was well adjusted to teach online in March 2020.❤ #teacherstrong

[@KristensClassroom]

Agreed - that is a lot!! I didn't know we were in the same teaching situation (k-8) - do you do band/choir/general?

[@performingartseducator]

@@KristensClassroom I do choir and general music class. The private school really asked too much from one music educator. One person normally doesn’t do every musical art form at a school plus weekend mass. However every private school is different. Some music educators will do band and chorus (I’ve heard). I did choir, general music, and drama club at a middle school. However it’s normally two or three arts disciplines that are taught. This will be a great break for you. When or if you decide to return to music education, try public school once you obtain your certification (if you already have - great). I don’t know if Ohio has a union (Georgia does not) but unions protect educators from these type of things. Plus, your business takes up a lot of your time. I’m glad that you shared your struggle. Most educators outside of the arts don’t understand what arts educators experience. I’m glad that your educator friends shared information about your contract. It’s important to rely on the contract regarding your work load and hours. In the performing arts school that I teach at, we have music (choir & general, band, and orchestra with all different teachers - they are two choir and general music educators so 4 music teachers), drama (3 teachers), dance (2 teachers), and one art teacher (goal is to hire another art teacher). The private school asked you to do 4 jobs (choir, band, musical theatre, and general music) for one salary plus mass. You deserve a rest. ❤️

[@onlineadventureswithkelsey]

It’s going to be okay. ❤️

[@onlineadventureswithkelsey]

Teacher strong!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you! I know it will feel so strange in August when everyone is setting up their classrooms. Maybe I'll redo my home office so I also have a reason to visit Target for decor :)

[@johnlopez3996]

I will begin my 29th year as an elementary school teacher in August. The past academic year tested my faith in the system and it felt as if I had aged several years because of all the stress. Thank you for sharing your honesty about how you have been feeling. Many people speak about learning loss during the pandemic, but has anybody ever decided to speak about teacher loss? Best wishes to you in your new endeavors.

[@stephanienguyen0323]

This video hits me straight in the heart. I feel the same. Last school year almost broke me. Being 14 years in and losing a pension, I’m between a rock and a hard place. I’m terrified to leave and not knowing what I can do. That being said, it takes courage to do what you did. You are brave and strong! Don’t ever forget that. Never think you don’t have a teacher community, because we are right here. I’m looking forward to seeing where this new venture takes you. As always, thank you for sharing your story! Much love 💕 Stephanie

[@gerritumblin152]

#teacherstrong (despite not number one it needs to be said again and again!) So glad for you…it has been a tough journey for sure! Hugs to you Kristen and lots of deep cleansing breaths

[@KristensClassroom]

Thanks Gerri :)

[@kaylaholleman20]

Also I am a first year teacher and I will definitely have to set up boundaries! I tend to throw my all into things so any teacher peeps have any more advice let me know!

[@squeakysadie]

Teacher strong! Thanks for the reality!

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you! Sometimes you just have to tell it like it is - tears and all :)

[@gigglesrios4525]

Teacher strong!!🍎🍏🎨🎨 I’m late but I really enjoyed this video! Thank you for sharing and I completely get you!

[@67MUSTANGPRODUCTIONS]

What's worse than a first year teacher salary is the salary of substitute teachers. It's great you were already established at Outschool.

[@justine.c]

Teacher strong. Xoxox :) You are making all the right choices for you. 👩‍🏫💪

[@nicoled.1032]

You are amazing! Stay strong! 💕 We support you! Best of luck on this new journey! 😊

[@ateachersanecdotes4696]

Teacher Strong! I can totally relate to all the stress of the 2020-2021school year! 😖 I think that the next few years are going to be even tougher…I’m anticipating lots of challenges trying to close the learning gaps! 😩

[@marshagaspard6239]

Teacher Strong! Yes, yes, yes! Ironically enough, I only watch 3 teachers on KZbin, and guess what!? All three of you have decided to resign after this past school year! I get it. I always told my spouse, after being made aware of how many teachers are on "medicine", that if I ever get to that point....it's time to quit that job. Blessings to you! May you harness peace these upcoming months.

[@cg-ny9078]

Hey Marsha! Which teachers do you watch on YT? I want to see other teachers and similar stories, but I don't know who I should watch/ subscribe to.

[@marshagaspard6239]

@@cg-ny9078 Pocketful of Primary and Furniture Flipping Teacher

[@cg-ny9078]

@@marshagaspard6239 Cool, thanks for the reply!

[@webnomad1453]

I can relate to everything you said. I was a school teacher, cruise ship pianist (showband and piano/vocal lounge duo contracts) and I now work in front end web design. You are an inspiration and thanks for sharing your story. If you ever want to jump back on cruise ships as a piano vocal duo let me know, lol.

[@heidiwitter4490]

I hope this comes across the way I intend…you seem like a lovely person who had expectations that just didn’t get met. I’m entering my 27th year of teaching, and this year was unprecedented for sure. I have had many challenging years and even more little moments that have shaped me in was I can’t even begin to explain here. I’m glad you realize that it’s not for you early on, and your gifts can be better used elsewhere. This is my jam!!! I will teach until I’m dragged out kicking and screaming.

[@heidiwitter4490]

In ways…not was.

[@kevinconmy3625]

Ya know Krsten,when I saw the title of this video I thought it was click bait.But surprising how heartfelt it was for you.Good for you,take some time to get yourself in a happy PLACE.You made a NECESSARY decision to do what you needed to do!God bless you.I pray for you and all the people,especially teachers that had to work through 2020.I work in the public sector and had to deal with that bullshit.Buy good for you teaching through that.Now you know.what doesn't Kill you,makes you stronger!

[@bonecrusher9745]

You are absolutely amazing. What stores do you usually do your grocery shopping at? Do you ever stock up on water? Can you possibly do some in store grocery shopping videos? It would be awesome if you could show how you do your full shopping trip

[@angelawhipple5376]

Teacher Strong!

[@KristensClassroom]

Sending a few out! Angela, send me your email address ([e-mail])

[@Boris80b]

I watched the whole video and I'm sorry to hear things happened the way they did to you. I'm very confident you will find and succeed in a workplace that's a better match for you :)

[@brucehuffman5278]

So glad that you're doing what you need to do for yourself! We get it!

[@mysadlife1771]

Teacher strong. God bless all the teachers.

[@KristensClassroom]

Thank you! :)

[@SSWEENZ]

#TeacherStrong I look forward to continuing to follow your journey. Take care of yourself

[@Iwenttothewoods1379]

I’m a 5th year, 6th school, teacher. I’m a “yes man.” I was up until 2:00 am and back up at 4:30am, because of something that I planned for hours after getting out of the er, was “accidentally missed.” Although, it was turned in 2 months early… submitted and conversed about 25 times over those 2 months. I stayed at the elementary school until past 6 to work on a week long project and field trip for 72 excited students who were let down that we didn’t have a single supply on our list.

[@janabloomfield4151]

I left my district this year and will be starting with a new (and completely awesome) district, new teacher orientation at the end of this month. I get the burnout you were feeling, as an elementary special education self-contained behavior teacher, this past year was especially hard. I was so blessed with a couple of amazing paras, but I did not take a conference or lunch. I did all of my special education IEP meeting prep at home. This is exactly why there is a teacher crisis, and it should not be this way. Blessing to you in your new endeavors!

[@janabloomfield4151]

I forgot #teacherstrong!