This is the most vulnerable I have been on my channel. Please be kind in the comments! Share below: are you a current or former teacher?
@jomerdonceras22403 жыл бұрын
Stay strong.. Keep on praying 🙏 indeed you did it.. Godbless
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
@@jomerdonceras2240 Thank you for your support!
@JazzyArtKL3 жыл бұрын
Ho Sonia. What a heartbreaking story. Teaching is not for everyone and I'm very glad you've found a way to keep your mental health and are still in education albeit online. I'm a Dutch expat teacher in Nanjing, China, teaching mathematics and computer science. Moving to Kuala Lumpur this summer. The students here are motivated and smart. Teaching back in Holland was a mixed experience for me, but I really enjoy teaching, but it's a tough and challenging profession for sure. Thanks for sharing your story here and as an experienced teacher I can say to your empathy and willingness to help students in your current format is just as impactful as being in a classroom. Share your unique skills with those that are willing to learn from you. You do make a difference, dear Sonia. Let people never tell you otherwise. Regards and wish you the best. Ferry.
@suzeldiegoguerra29433 жыл бұрын
Dear Sonia, I am relating to you so so much as a 2020 1 CM. I am having trouble walking through some decision. If you could drop your email I would love to open a conversation!
@yesitsme8893 жыл бұрын
Wish I could be former
@John-om3dx3 жыл бұрын
I quit after my 2nd year. Students were bad af and simply didn’t want to do any work or listen.
@newbeginnings36032 жыл бұрын
So true.
@JFalcony3 жыл бұрын
In my first and only year of teaching, someone attempted to bribe me, I was intimidated by administration, groped by a drunk mom, harassed over the phone and email, falsely accused of sexual harassment, and students and even other teachers spread rumors defaming my character. This was only in a span of 9 months because school was shut down in March. I came in to work every day scared of what would happen next. It started affecting my physical and mental health. I had back pain and was falling asleep while at my desk. I came to work angry and left angrier. I have experience substitute teaching in impoverished inner city schools, and the academic and behavioral problems I witnessed simply made sense. Of course they were scared, frustrated, and hopeless -- their lives were spiritually and materially empty because of poverty, abuse, neglect, etc. But this full-time position was in a wealthy community with a reputation and pride in their schools. These were people that had everything laid out for a privileged, fulfilling life, yet they acted nastier than those with real problems. It took a long time to sort out how I could love and trust people again after knowing what people are capable of. I resigned, moved, and started my own business. I am much happier now and my health has improved.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
That sounds like such a traumatic experience! I'm glad you're no longer in that environment. What kind of business do you have now?
@JPEZTutoring3 жыл бұрын
I definitely relate to your experience! The guilt of leaving the classroom definitely exists, but fortunately, there are many ways to help students learn outside of a traditional classroom. Thank you for making this video!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for watching!! ❤️😍
@shirleyduffer20813 жыл бұрын
I just resigned after 23 (yup, not a typo) years teaching kindergarten. My mom passed away 5/28/20 so I struggled with grief , anxiety, self-care during the pandemic . I took a FMLA and realized the commute , the stress of the job, and a multitude of other factors before the pandemic was not worth it . My mental health and self care became a priority. I appreciate your vulnerability and courage to post this. I didn’t like distance learning at all. Im not sure what the future holds but I’m in a much healthier place physically and emotionally since taking the leave. Thank you again. I’ve subscribed to your channel:)
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hi Shirley! Thank you so much for sharing your story and for your courage. It must have been so hard to lose your mom last year. I'm so glad you are in a better place now that you're no longer in the classroom. I'd love to connect with you on IG if you're on there! Thats where I hang out the most. I'm @sonia_teach. All the best to you!
@sunfairy_193 жыл бұрын
I’m a first-year teacher and I’m considering another career in which I can use my teaching degree. Your words about not being weak or incapable of teaching were really reassuring. Thank you for your vulnerability!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your comment, Emily! There are so many opportunities out there for you. Are you considering online teaching?
@sunfairy_193 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach I've been thinking about tutoring or working in a preschool!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Awesome!
@lynnespringer15133 жыл бұрын
Teaching in the wrong place makes a lot of difference. My daughter's friend taught in the wrong place her first year. Her first year became her last year. I must say that I taught in 3 different places the first three years. My moves were centered around my life as a single person and moving to the city where my fiance' lived. I decided to try 3 years. My first two were horrible. I decided at that time to try one more time at the last location. That last place changed my mind totally. I ended up staying in that place for 10 years. Finding the right place can be difficult. MY third location had the following: a supportive administration, supportive coworkers who offered their time to help me, the principal and front office people did the same, the Supervisor of my program located in the Administration did the same. Every one that I worked with and around were all there to see me succeed. The discipline in the school where I taught was good. When I sent a kid to the office the kid came back disciplined. What I did not find in my first two locations- the coworkers were not working together to achieve a common goal, the coworker barely knew the office personnel, I was not introduced to the front office personnel-- both locations did not have a system that worked together. Who knows if they were even on the same page. The third school district had a much better reputation in the community than the first 2. The third was much larger with 5 high schools and 8 jr. highs and who knows how many elementary schools. It was located in the suburbs. The first two places were small town school districts and neither one of them were known for excelling . To find that great place you need to know someone in teacher preferably to tell you what they know about various districts. If I could have spoken to my daughter's friend before she had gotten a job I probably could have prevented a career change. Colleges now days are out of touch with how schools are operated. I remember my education prof telling us how to handle discipline- she was so off. She taught 3 yrs in an affluent suburb and what worked there did not work in the inner city.
@tocaraindrop2 жыл бұрын
@@sunfairy_19 hi I’ve been thinking about working in a preschool as well. How’s it working out for you?
@coloud_tea3 жыл бұрын
Here I am, my fourth day of teaching Kindergarten for the first time and I have already cried, had two mental breakdowns, felt the most stress I’ve ever experienced in my life, contemplated hurting myself in order to get out of it (I have difficulty with saying no and quitting any job), and had a near panic attack my second morning. This is what I have always wanted to do and I feel like such a failure for already thinking of quitting. My teaching experience ranges from online teaching English as a second language, tutoring, and I was a parapro for a year but have never ran my own classroom. It’s kindergarten, they are learning their ABC’s and how to count. I should be able to do that yet I feel completely incapable. I never could have imagined how mentally and physically demanding teaching/running a class would be. It is without a doubt the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. It is simply not just teaching the material, you have a million other things to do and worry about. I’ve talked to some of the other teachers and they tell me it’s going to get better, I shouldn’t worry it’s only kindergarten, and provide me with tips to use for classroom management but I cannot see how this will end well. My mental health is declining each day. I realize now I have serious mental issues when it comes to OCD and anxiety that I need to get help for. I’ve just never been at a point in my life where the stress has been this high. I feel terrible. On one hand I feel like I’m already failing these students because I’m just not confident in myself to teach this classroom as it needs to be and on the other hand I feel I will fail them for leaving and transitioning with a new teacher for these little kiddos will be so hard. I’m stuck in such a hard place. There’s also the backlash I will receive from my close family members that scares me. I really don’t know what to do but already by the end of the fourth day I feel like this just isn’t for me. I could continue and finish this year but what will it cost me? I can see myself going back to tutoring or maybe even finding another career path. Why does it feel like a crime to quit teaching? If it were any other job affecting your mental health, people would be fully supportive of it.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hi Corina! My heart breaks for you. Please remember that YOUR HEALTH COMES FIRST!! Teaching is NOT for everyone, and that's okay! I don't think teaching in a brick and mortar classroom was right for me, it was way too stressful for my personality. Now, I run my own business online, and working for myself, I am thriving!! Please don't be afraid to quit because nothing is more important than taking care of YOU! Sending you love!
@ATLOreo3 жыл бұрын
I feel the exact same way 🙁
@ladyritsu73942 жыл бұрын
It’s also my first year teaching and I absolutely dread going to the school. I get anxiety attacks on my way to work. My students hit me and admin doesn’t help. Like you, teachers tell me it’s going to get better. But I find my appetite almost gone I cry sometimes during the week. I also have anxiety and a sensitive stomach so I know being stressed and anxious isn’t going to help me at all. I want to leave but if I do it’s breaching the one year contract. I have no idea what to do. But for sure if I quit I know I’ll be happy.
@coloud_tea2 жыл бұрын
@@ladyritsu7394 I'm so sorry, I feel for you! Are you not allowed to break your contract? I actually quit the school after my second week. I'm currently working at another school as an interventionist but due to some other issues related to management and the role description not matching what I thought the job would be like, I'm quitting teaching altogether. After two bad experiences, I'm ready to leave the teaching world behind.
@coloud_tea2 жыл бұрын
@@ATLOreo you need to take your mental health seriously! Please.
@michaeldelacruz52933 жыл бұрын
I’m so sorry to hear about your experience. I was in my second year teaching and two weeks ago I gave my resignation to my school. The stress level plus this pandemic was effecting my mental health, my sanity, and relationship with my girlfriend. Unfortunately, we just broke up. I’m glad to hear your experience and made me and others feel that we’re not alone. I started an online math tutoring business last week and so far it’s going well.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on starting your online math tutoring business! I also applaud you for prioritizing your health and making the decision to resign. While I didn't share it in the video, I too went through breakup shortly after I quit teaching. It was just a really rough year overall, but I grew as a person and now I'm running an online biz & am happily married. I believe things will get better for you!
@hayley18683 жыл бұрын
Which website.... I am from India.... Can I join it too?
@shadejansen326 Жыл бұрын
I am crying with you. After 10 years being in the education industry destroyed my self esteem and my pedagogy was not appreciated by the schools management and older educators that are close to retirement.... I am continuing going for therapy to deal with the PTSD and depression from this career. I wish the young and newbie educators could deserve the dignified respect that they deserve. Out of my teaching career, I've learnt as a music educator that the students are the one that are more appreciative in their teachers as oppose to the victims colleagues
@soniateach Жыл бұрын
I am so glad to hear you have sought out therapy and my heart goes out to you. best wishes for your healing!
@user-nr2ej5sr5e3 жыл бұрын
I’m in my first year of teaching and I have just submitted my resignation
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing! Are you doing okay? How do you feel about it?
@brianathen22772 жыл бұрын
@ 1985 what made you leave ?
@katieschnettler24893 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing! I just quit my special Ed teaching job after 5 years. I had enough. It’s such a toxic environment right now and it just sucked the love of teaching out of me. It’s a tough job to have. Just know you did your best 💜
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much, Katie! What are your plans next now that you've left the classroom?
@moanilove36893 жыл бұрын
I needed to see this! I’m happy I found your channel. I too have went through an alternative teaching program. I started teaching high school in 2020 during the pandemic, as well as teaching online privately. I recently decided to quit teaching high school, during my first year. I’ve been having a lot of anxiety and lack of sleep as well. I dropped out of my Masters program due to all the stress. I was crying everyday going to work and leaving from work. I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. I recently chose to walk away, to take care of my mental health. I commend all the teachers out here that has been doing it for years, and very passionate about teaching! I love teaching/ tutoring online privately though. The high school classroom was just not a fit for me.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for sharing your story!!! I appreciate your comment and I'm so glad you've found tutoring to be a better fit!
@cecechatmon51873 жыл бұрын
First year teachers should not teach SPED, especially after only 6 weeks of training. I definitely would have quit after my first year of that were the case. I’ve been at 20 years now and it’s definitely frustrating and it’s grown more and more frustrating over the years realizing that by and large the kids at least the population of kids that I am “teaching” are pretty unmotivated and couldn’t care less about how much time and effort you put into trying to make a lesson interesting for them. It’s taking a long time but I had to learn how to put my own needs first and balance what I need to do in the classroom.
@joanlynch52713 жыл бұрын
I think that new teachers should be given more support and flexible schedules to make them feel better about themselves. I feel like a minnow chased by a shark in my small town.
@Michelle-pn9xt2 жыл бұрын
I am a first year teacher trying to teach SPED, and I think you may be right.
@arie76873 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for sharing your story! I’ve been struggling with teaching for 8 years. I always pushed through and denied the mental strain because I just didn’t want to fail the kids. However, this year has been especially tumultuous and I was finally diagnosed with a mental health condition. I feel so upset that I didn’t take care of myself and ignored the signs for so long and that I prioritized teaching over myself. I’ve taken sick leave to get treated, so I’m not going back after the holiday break but will probably go back at the end of the year. Even with the understanding that my undiagnosed condition has made it difficult for me to do my job effectively, I still feel extreme guilt over the sick leave. However, your video just gave me some peace. BTW, I also did TFA after graduating. Even though I had a degree in education, I was so unprepared for that first day. You are so right! Nothing can really prepare you for that experience!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Wow Ari! Thank you so much for sharing your story. I feel honored by your willingness to open up and share. This was a tough video to make and I'm encouraged by your comment. I am wishing you better health in 2021. And if you are on Instagram be sure to connect with me @sonia_teach because I share how I made self care a priority in my stories. Thanks again for commenting!
@tamarataye356 Жыл бұрын
I appreciate you sharing. Just know that you were not properly trained or given proper support. When you teach one on one, or in small groups, it becomes less intimidating and makes it all worth it. Sorry, you had to suffer.
@jillsalkin73893 жыл бұрын
I don't know why anyone would get a degree in education. Truly. I did it as a second career for 18 years. It is the hardest job there is, and is getting worse; Covid proved that. There would have to be major overhauls to the field, including adding mental health pros to every school. I don't see how public education is not going to just collapse in on itself. Very sad for people who really wanted to teach and for kids who want to learn.
@MyMathTeachingOnline3 жыл бұрын
Being a teacher in North America is not really an ideal career path, thanks for sharing your honest story. I have so much sympathy for teachers in North America. I love teaching and I have such a passion for teaching especially in my subject area. But political and school cultural in North America is not making easy to support our ideal professions. Students' behaviors are huge problem, and it is truly unfair for both students and teachers in such a system that no matter how a good teacher is to deal with 30 other students and being loved by 30 students, but as long as one individual is a trouble maker, then the administration, staffs and even other colleague are willing to sacrifice one good teacher to 30 others in exchange for one trouble make student, because they are willing to be on students side, not knowing that being unfair while making teacher becomes vulnerable and fire one teacher in exchange for 1 misbehavior students. That is how I feel about North America educational system. Unfortunately, teaching in a bad educational system when teachers were blamed for everything, whereas students came from so many family background problems. My heart is with all good students, but I cannot tolerate with some bad apples in everywhere, we have bad apples in all professions, in all schools, but we do not know how to train them and give teachers full support when these teachers have to deal with. Basically, we are the culture not being taught how to appreciate teachers in North America.
@jodiamond78393 жыл бұрын
I feel for you Sonia and can completely relate to your experience. Teaching in schools can be unforgiving. I have been a secondary school teacher for more than 20 years but I am now looking to start my own online tutoring business. Often, people do not realise how emotionally and mentally draining teaching in schools can be. All the best, Sonia. Thank you for this video; it is so brave of you!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Congratulations on your plans to start your own business! And thank you so much for your kind words! I'm taking a break from KZbin for the time being, but if you'd like to connect via Instagram, my handle is @sonia_teach. All the best!
@joanlynch52713 жыл бұрын
My first year teaching was similar to yours. I had a rocky start, but in addition, I became pregnant, so I ended up leaving the school for my own body and also for the health of my child.
@DaraKFulton3 жыл бұрын
As a teacher who suffers from depression I can totally relate with you. It's NOT easy being a teacher. Although I teach adults and still do, it can be very difficult to be an effective teacher. Teaching ESL is my passion and I love it but because I work a lot and don't always take breaks, it's a challenge. I have my own business called Applied ESL. The struggle I have is the loneliness and trying to get my business off the ground. Although I'm aware things take time but I have some discouraging moments 😔 I appreciate you sharing your story and glad you're in a better place. I admire you because I don't meet enough teachers who KEEP IT REAL and the affects of teaching both mentally and physically. Thank you. 😊 I send you positive vibes 🥰 PS: New subbie here 😊
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hey Dara! Thank you for sharing your story. I'm so glad you enjoyed the video. If you need added support (and friends!) for growing your tutoring business, I want to personally invite you into my community. I have a monthly membership for ambitious tutors who want to work less and earn more. Here are the details! www.soniateach.com/society.
@DaraKFulton3 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach You are so welcome and I will check out your community. I would like to be part of a community of teachers who understand the struggle of teaching and entrepreneurship. Thanks for liking my story/comment 🥰
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Of course! I'm always excited to get supportive comments on my videos. It means so much. Are you on Instagram? I'd love to connect there. My handle is @sonia_teach.
@DaraKFulton3 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach Yes I'm on IG...I'll follow you. My name is Dara but my IG name is my business name Applied ESL 🥰
@khologne3 жыл бұрын
Hey, that insomnia is no joke. Been there, done that. There was a period where I only slept one or two nights in a week. That was crazy and I cant believe I did that!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
I hope you're getting better sleep now!
@khologne3 жыл бұрын
Sonia Teach - Tutor Business Coach All good now. I can look back and laugh at what I went through. Some of it was self inflicted due to my lack of organisation and a lack of self confidence. And some of it was definitely due to the job. But, you have to be selfish and take care of yourself for you to be able to help/teach others.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
@@khologne So glad things are better now!
@hayley18683 жыл бұрын
Currently I am going through this....
@vo5623 жыл бұрын
I don’t often comment on videos, but your video really gave me a lot to think about. In a few days I’ll be starting student teaching. Like you, I did not originally start off in education but ultimately ended up in it because I wasn’t sure what to do after I dropped my original major. From what I’ve seen and experienced so far in the classrooms I’ve observed at (with no actual teaching experience due to the pandemic), this isn’t the career path for me. As you said, it takes a lot out of the mental health of teachers and you’re expected to give your students your all despite feeling so low. I really can’t do that. I don’t know what I’m going to do after student teaching. Maybe I’ll substitute or maybe I’ll do something else, I’m just left uncertain of what direction I should go into after I’m done with the program. Thanks for the video.
@mtstar892 жыл бұрын
I felt for you when you cried. I also didn’t plan to go into teaching. I was told that it was the only steady career with the type of bachelors degree I was getting. I wish I could go back and reevaluate but perhaps it happened for a reason. I have taught for two years, first year during the pandemic shut down and the kids I worked with had severe behavior problems (again before the pandemic). They would not let me get out of my contract so when schools shut down in March, it was much easier to get through the year. I tried applying for other positions during summer and found nothing but an online tutoring position that I enjoyed and paid enough for my individual bills. Fast forward to the following summer, I had another chance at a different district. The difference between both schools was like night and day. However, I still found myself struggling with catching up on my lessons, grading, calling parents. Ppl don’t understand it takes a lot of extra time during the beginning years to actually make it. It got to the point where I would get congratulated for an observation and I wouldn’t even believe it afterwards since some of the kids were acting out. I signed my contract for the following year but I reached out and asked how to go about resigning. They said I could still get out of the contract if school hasn’t started. So I did and I do not have a plan B. I plan to also find something remote. After the pandemic, it made me realize how precious our free time is and why in countries such as Spain close during siesta time or open the computer lab later than they were supposed to (true story in college out there). We’re not meant to be miserable in any career. I’m glad you are doing better and you are not alone.
@GrowWithWill3 жыл бұрын
Enjoyed the vulnerability. Thanks for sharing.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching!!
@astarisborn98203 жыл бұрын
I highly recommend those considering education as a career, work as a para educator/teaching assistant first! Then you will know if a teaching career is for you!
@stellamartin11453 жыл бұрын
Not necessarily, they have it cushy compared to teachers, many are shocked when they become teachers and regret it, they don’t quite get it before
@astarisborn98203 жыл бұрын
@@stellamartin1145 maybe in places where they hire just anyone. But where I live support staff have to be certified and participate in ongoing professional development that has to be verified of at least 100 hours every 5 years. So the jump to teaching isn’t a shock/it’s kind of expected after you have so x, many years of experience.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Great tip!
@autumn_nive58223 жыл бұрын
That’s what I have been doing, and it’s been eye opening. I think this is it for me, but seeing the other side of the coin is scary. I truly empathize cause I have been in those classrooms before. I have been in classroom where they children never stop-and they’re not trying to be disrespectful, they just have no training. Non at all, and they’re...HORRIBLE. But I still care, and I fear I care a bit too much.
@alexandrakeesecker9093 жыл бұрын
I loved subbing, hated teaching full time
@margor29622 жыл бұрын
5 years of teaching here! And I am thinking about quitting and starting my own business. And the problem is NOT in students. The problem is in THE SYSTEM. I wish we Could just taken down all the people that are on the top of that iceberg called Department of education and got some new fresh leaders out of the teachers, so we could do a totally new system that would work for students and for teachers. This system has so many holes, and over the years it is getting more of them. Only changing the WHOLE system will help to invite new teachers and will be beneficial to students.
@ashspeaking79103 жыл бұрын
Sonia, you're simply great! I can hear you, and you're really inspiring! I don't know how this video didn't get 10 million likes already!
@ahsans53503 жыл бұрын
Thank you for being so honest and raw with us!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
You're welcome, Ahsan! Thanks for your support!
@spartan048013 жыл бұрын
My advice is take checks your selfs before jumping into social worker... This applies to teaching as well. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.
@pault9544 Жыл бұрын
6 weeks of even rigorous training is really not enough to prepare one for the actual teaching job imo. I am doing a teaching internship and just finished my first semester of teaching (4 months). Our teaching internship last for a whole academic year. It took me at least 2 months just to not be afraid of standing in front of the kids. Lesson planning is tough when you're exhausted, and having an auto immune disorder myself this part has been tough. It is a VERY stressful job at many times. For myself, after I graduate, I'm thinking I may be only able to teach part time. Listening to your story, it definitely sounds like you made the right decision. You're health is more important, both physical and mental. It's not worth it if you're burnt out al the time, ill, and just miserable. Saving your sanity is the right choice.
@soniateach Жыл бұрын
congratulations on completing your first semester of teaching! i think teaching part time is a great idea if it is financially feasible. if not, there are other career opportunities out there for teachers (outside the classroom) with better work life balance!
@easiersaidwithmeg3 жыл бұрын
I’m in my very first year (covid year) teaching. It took me 10 years from 2010-2020 to become a teacher. I experienced more stress and trauma than I ever did in my life. I used to be active duty military and teaching was harder. I am now considering quitting after just one year.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
I'm so sorry it's been such a stressful experience! Honestly, I don't think classroom teaching is suitable for everyone, and that's okay! Are you thinking of making a career change, or do you want to continue using your teaching skills in another capacity?
@easiersaidwithmeg3 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach i’m not sure but open to learning more
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Are you on Instagram? If so we should connect there! instagram.com/sonia_teach/
@AchillesRuptureRecoveryJourney3 жыл бұрын
Wow! We should definitely connect as I’m former active duty military as well. I’m now teaching. This is my second year but I’m out with a major injury and strongly considering not going back.
@mariawaugh-clayton79783 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your transparency Sonia. I am so glad that you had the opportunity to teach and no one is looking down on you for doing what you do. Teach for America is a wonderful program and it requires a lot of grit and determination that many people don't understand. I was in Teach for America in 1994. It changed my life. Teaching is hard and requires many things that seem impossible. I'm in my 28th year of teaching and all of them weren't great years but I know I've helped someone in that time. Take care.
@tresseyadams3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing this and helping so many of us realize, we are not alone with these struggles. I am truly feeling the lack of sleep and not being able to ease into my days.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for watching, Tressey! I appreciate your support!! ❤️
@enedinavelazquez74262 жыл бұрын
Thank you for being so vulnerable. I completely agree with you. Yesterday was my first day of school. I am working for TFA as well and I am having so many doubts. I feel so lost and burnt out. I have been working from the minute I wake up to the minute I go to sleep and it still feels as if I got nothing done. Your video resonated with me a lot. Thank you.
@soniateach2 жыл бұрын
Hi Enedina!! Sorry to hear what you're going through right now. I'm wishing you all the best. And remember that your health comes first, so make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating, & making time for self-care. It seems obvious but I definitely neglected myself that year!
@matsuvalley13273 жыл бұрын
I cannot imagine attempting to teach via an alternative route to licensure program. Being expected to do a very difficult job without the proper training is cruel. Shame on those programs! They know teaching is a little more involved than sticking an adult in a classroom and basically saying “good luck.” I am so sorry you had to endure such an experience. Traditional teaching licensure is the best preparation. A full semester student teaching with a seasoned teacher is so important. Teaching is an art as much as it is content mastery. Holding a degree does not make a person K-12 teacher material . Thank you for sharing your experience!
@Michelle-pn9xt2 жыл бұрын
Many people who are in alternative teaching programs have a degree as well as teaching experience, . Shame on you for thinking that your way is the only way! Have you actually taken the time to speak to someone who has chosen the alternative teaching route? Based on what you are saying, I do not think you have done that.
@dorianmac74662 жыл бұрын
Many Teachers go through the Alternative Teaching route; the medium is not the problem.
@theTruthSeekerishere2 жыл бұрын
I have a masters degree in teaching and student teaching doesn't really prepare you for the classroom either. I have 7 years of teaching experience and honestly you learn to anticipate certain behaviors then there's always something new. There's a new issue or problem. No matter what your experience is teaching is difficult. Students have changed and the educational system has changed. No one will say it but it's the parents who have failed them and the system has failed its teachers by failing to advocate for our well being.
@natasshaarreola47233 жыл бұрын
I relate to your video a lot. I was a first year teacher in Aug 2020. My student teaching was cut short because of the pandemic and I got to see the struggle of online teaching from the get go. When I started my job I knew it would be hard because obviously no one was ready or knew what hybrid teaching was going to look like. I felt so lonely, lost, anxious, depressed, no appetite, and I just could not think. I felt so guilty because I wanted to be the best teacher I could possibly be to my 4th graders. I just could not do it. It was very embarrassing for me to put in my resignation in October but I just had to. I cried so much everyday I was there. Now Im trying to find a job as a para/teacher aide to see if education is really for me but it makes me so nervous still. I just feel lost.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hey Natassha! I did the same thing. I left the classroom with the intent to return, and thought at the very least I could work as a teacher's aide. The reality was, as a teacher's aide, I was basically playing the role of a teacher without a teacher's pay. Now, this is not anyone's fault but my own, as I took on more responsibility than I needed to as an aide. Ultimately I decided the classroom was not right for me, and that's how I started online tutoring!
@susanjacomb96143 жыл бұрын
Ive been a teacher for 40 yrs but the last 32 have been a substitute teacher. (In NZ). We get paid really well here and I love that I can work from 8-30 till 3 but still establish good relationships with students. I basically had a complete breakdown after my second year of teaching. I have talked to so many teachers who experienced Sunday night anxiety for their whole career. My experience was very similar to yours. Self compassion is so important. I got NO support from colleagues or principal when I disclosed my struggles.
@Gencturk923 жыл бұрын
i guess new zealand is nice not like America and UK
@kimoramicheal83533 жыл бұрын
I'm watching this in school loll. 😭. I am a substitute teacher though. So far I am enjoying it, but the thought of being an actual teacher scares me! I love the flexibility of being a sub, and picking my own schedule since I am currently a student as well.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hey Kimora!! Are you studying education? How long have you been subbing?
@lynnespringer15133 жыл бұрын
after retirement ( the feb before the pandemic) I had the opportunity of returning to sub. There was no way I could have done that. The school I retired from was why I retired. I could have gone a few more years but my coworkers were horrible. Knowing that I was able to leave allowed me to do just that- leave. I really needed more money than retirement offered. Subbing would have been adequate but, seeing how the pandemic was going- there was not way I could do that. Schools where I am from were in and out and in and out. No established pattern. I knew the kids would be off the wall in the discipline area, Kids do not handle change.
@marilyn84903 жыл бұрын
Don't feel bad...life is full of twists and turns. I say this as a 65 year old:-) Started teaching (I had always wanted to), then quit to make more $$ in the business world. Then got married and stayed home with 2 kids. Then returned to work as the kids got older...into teaching because it allowed me to manage the kids as well as work. However....you should keep in mind that 1) The university program that can prepare you for all the stuff you deal with in teaching does NOT exist! Sorry, but you don't really even see that fully in student teaching 2) School districts do NOT ever focus on your need to keep your sanity...districts have this drive to constantly implement new programs every year and this does not encourage you to work reasonable hours and take care of your own health. And also, if you are sick, prepping for a sub is 5 times more work than actually being there. That's why most of us (pre-covid) go to work even if sick. I hope those days are done post-pandemic. I retired and now work part time because I worked 60+ hours per week for less $$ than I made 20 years ago in teaching. 3) People changing professions is a normal part of life. I know programmers who hate their jobs and leave...lots of other jobs. It just happens. The idea that 20-something folks will know what they want to for the REST of their lives is not realistic! All the best to you...you will find work that you enjoy and is fulfilling as you do more and find your niche. It sucks that making that transition is painful for many people.
@destamcghie6322 жыл бұрын
Reading the comments in this section is disheartening. I never realized how many people are having problems with this profession. Education has changed so much, but in the worse way. I've taught in the past, but not with a license. I taught in South Korea, Honduras, I taught ESL for adults at a careers college, and I taught as a sub teacher for six months with an agency in NY. They sent me to different assignments in the Bronx and Manhattan. So yea, that's the extent of my teaching experience.
@queenhornet10213 жыл бұрын
Thank you for posting a video about your experience. It should be shown in every orientation to teacher education class across America. Many enter the teaching profession, and they have NO idea about the full scope of the job. Also, thank you for focusing on self care.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment! It means so much to me. Are you a current teacher?
@queenhornet10213 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach I’m no longer a secondary teacher. I’m an instructor now.
@musicallinda213 жыл бұрын
I too left school one year ago, it was both mentally and physically affecting me. I tried so many different things and nothing was working out so I decided to get my tefl certificate instead. If it doesn't work out for me I'm going to keep looking 👀, we're here for a reason we can't give up on finding our niche, we're unique and talented, I’m praying for you🙏🏾💕
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much, Linda!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Would love to connect with you over on Instagram. You can find me @sonia_teach!
@musicallinda213 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach you're very welcome and thank you! And awesome will do, can't wait to connect, I'm adding you now😂😇😆
@byekk22517 ай бұрын
I quit after 6 days! The stress and anxiety was through the roof and I was shocked how my health plummeted so fast. No thanks. Whatever you pay me.
@soniateach7 ай бұрын
I'm glad you took the steps necessary to take care of your health!
@ericcrum73512 жыл бұрын
I totally understand where you are coming from. I have taught for six years, and it is definitely not easy. The first year really is the worst, no matter what anyone says. It is just so hard to train someone and teach them how to teach all while simultaneously having a room filled with kids. If you are feeling drained or want to leave, leave. Regardless of what people say, there are positive schools and negative school environments. If you find yourself in a negative environment, leave immediately. There are thousands of schools across the country, your skill set is there, and you just need the right environment. If the teachers aren't willing to help you, that's not the environment for you. Teaching is much more than just sink or swim, and shame on them for telling you that. There are teachers out there who will show you what to do and help you, believe it or not. And to repeat advice I have gotten, if you are this emotional, this is the right field for you. The thing is you care. Most people don't. That alone makes you more than qualified and ambitious enough to be an educator. There are tons of opportunities for you in the private sector as well. Never limit yourself. People say they work hard, but teaching is a whole another level. If you care (which you do), have the skill set (which you do), and have ambition, you belong in teaching. We are having a teacher recruitment crisis, and with good reason. Try switching environments and see how you do. I left a negative environment, and my only regret is not leaving earlier. Keep in mind, you took on an extremely challenging environment your first year (exceptional education, poorer community, etc.). There may be easier environments for you. In special education specifically, you need a mentor. If nobody is willing to mentor you, that's not a good environment. I worked with MC III. These kids think the world of you. You shouldn't care what the adults think. They can't do what you did, even a year, so their opinion about you sadly is irrelevant. It's weird we're in a world where teachers are judged harsher than anyone, but very few souls even try what we do. Just saying. When you remove all of the nonsense, you can hold the attention of 50 people at a time, communicate effectively, and manage time well. There's not a business person on this earth who wouldn't want that, even if you leave education entirely.
@soniateach2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for taking the time to share this comment!
@eevee-chan96072 жыл бұрын
I quit after my first year too. I hate, HATE, the expectations that are placed on teachers. We are expected to lesson plan for 4 subjects, submit the lesson plans for the next week, lesson plan for RTI, and lessonplan for SEL. Mind you, I had to have all this done a week ahead and there would be 3 staff grade level meeting peer week. That gave me no tine during the day to grade at their expectations as well, 2 grades per subject per week and grade homework weekly. Plus, deal with the unrealistic expectations of parents, student behavior, keep a call log, keep a email log, a sub binder that contains 2 weeks worth of work, all the while participate in school community activities that were not in contract hours and not paid for. The team had was awful. I did complete my first year and certification but it was like pulling teeth. I resigned and then my administration offered me a TA position and I'll be doing that next school year. (I just found out that the entire team resigned as well!) I was so overwhelmed that I got very little sleep, hardly ate a thing and by Thursday afternoon I needed a drink. When I expressed this to a colleague, her answer was "that's what being a teacher is like." I'd take the downgrade and be treated like an actual professional over being micromanage any damn day.
@SneakySalamander132 жыл бұрын
I am in the "perfect" teaching job with a good school and good kids. My kids love me and I have no ussues with anyone. But I am FUCKING TIRED and stressed. I don't want to do anything related to my job and want to quit. I have to keep going until May to pay the bills but I am quitting even if I have to sell my house.
@newbeginnings36032 жыл бұрын
This my first year. I was a sub & and aide the last 2 years.
@newbeginnings36032 жыл бұрын
After 14 weeks I can feel the stress gradually building up. I am resigning in December. Tired of stress, insomnia, irregular cycles, long work hours, behavior problems w/students etc.
@HappyHolyHealthyLife3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing! I did TFA too and am in my 8th year of teaching, and I think your experiences are very common to teachers these days. I'm so glad you have been able to do online tutoring that's awesome 👌👏
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Wow, 8 years! That's amazing! Where did you do TFA? I was a 2013 corps member!
@HappyHolyHealthyLife3 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach Me too! 2013 Kansas City! Our training was in Tulsa Oklahoma. 😄
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Very cool! I was in Milwaukee. 🤗
@casinostrada77963 жыл бұрын
I resonated so much with what you said. Since I started my teacher training in 2017, it has been very taxing emotionally and mentally for me because of my social anxiety and erythrophobia, but still I wanted to challenge myself. Maybe more so because I always enjoyed helping others understand the fascinating subject that is maths, and so I thought a teaching career was the right thing for me to persue. Long story short, after much consideration I decided to quit the classroom at the beginning of 2020. This decision to stop teaching left me quite vulnerable and discouraged, thinking that I am not good enough as a teacher, even though I know it was the right decision for my mental health. Ever since, I wanted to start tutoring online but didn't have the courage to get myself to just give it a go and trust myself again. Watching your video, I feel encouraged and motivated to start tutoring online and use my skills and knowledge to encourage and inspire students that need that little bit of help and support. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your willingness to share your story! I'm so glad this video has inspired you to start tutoring online!
@kicshiakicshia13743 жыл бұрын
You are really nice person. I’m wanting to do this online tutoring. I dont have a degree in teaching my degree is in communication. Should I get a degree in teaching. Thank you for your videos.
@hagifour34512 жыл бұрын
Oh my God!! Thank you so much Sonia. Your story is so similar to mine. I have just quit my teaching course coz of anxiety and stress. I don't know what to do now but your words have made me stronger. God bless you🙏🏿
@soniateach2 жыл бұрын
My heart goes out to you!! Wishing you all the best on this new step of your journey!
@amandakalkstein6914 Жыл бұрын
You are right. Literally nothing can prepare anyone for the classroom. I went the traditional route and still it was so so so difficult. I’m on Year 8 and highly considering leaving the field. So much guilt.
@Pr1ncefan3 жыл бұрын
I enjoyed your video. :-) Peopled used to encourage me to go into the teaching profession. I am glad that I listened to myself, because I knew it wasn't for me. If I had become a teacher, I would have had a mental breakdown after a month (actually...not sure I would have made it that long).
@tamarataylor68033 жыл бұрын
Omg! This is my story totally. I went through an alternate program as well and it really doesn’t prepare you for the classroom and being a para doesn’t either. The responsibilities of a teacher are tremendous and their is no support. I had to take FMLA for depression and anxiety my second year. I am in my third year now but I don’t think I am going back.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Sending you love and positive thoughts!
@Michelle-pn9xt2 жыл бұрын
there
@nathanielburbery48902 жыл бұрын
I'm a teacher from NZ. Same story. I somehow made it to my third year, although burned out in second year and needed to take a year off in between. Teaching the senior classes that WANT to learn (physics) had been awesome Younger students who have no choice and are forced to take the subject are awfully difficult (behaviour management???). I felt forced to resign, and am leaving in a month 😭
@xxroxysoadxx3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for sharing. You are brave ❤️❤️
@kimberlybrowndiaz9293 Жыл бұрын
they blame teachers for bad behavior;i quit
@ChrisOpachan3 жыл бұрын
I know it wasn't easy to share such a personal story. Wishing you the best!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! You too!
@donniemoder14663 жыл бұрын
Sink or swim setting is really a brutal set up. It sounds like its a roll of the dice and if you as a new teacher with little training want help or seek help then it is not likely you will get support. You are being set up for failure and that is not a good situation to be in. They put the least prepared to cope into the worst setting. Obviously the experienced and trained teachers have chosen not to teach in this place and the school system searches for newbies who they treat like guinea pigs in an experiment.
@tatumguercio95353 жыл бұрын
Sending hugs! 💓 Totally relate to this, I am a brand new, inexperienced teacher and I have my first student tomorrow. It took every ounce of willpower not to cancel the lesson because I was like wtf am I doing, I'm not a teacher.😭😂 I guess the imposter syndrome haunts us all.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
You've got this! Are you doing 1:1 tutoring?
@tatumguercio95353 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach Yes, working for the online platform called Preply.🤗
@tatumguercio95353 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach Thank you so much, and thank you for sharing your experience!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
That's so exciting, all the best! You're welcome!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
I don't know if you're on instagram, but feel free to connect with me there! My handle is sonia_teach.
@avramwurf58042 жыл бұрын
I grew up a special ed student. I had to suffer years of verbal abuse at the hands of what I call so-called educators. I had stress, depression, as well as low self esteam for a long time because of being the victim of an abusive, corrupt system called public schools. When I entered a special ed high school, things did not get much better for me because I didn't trust anyone. Took me years to reform myself realizing that the verbal abuse I suffered was never my fault, but the fault of the policies of the greedy board of education & higher. Education must be reformed to make a learning enviroment benefical for children.
@soniateach2 жыл бұрын
Hi Avram! I'm so saddened to hear this! I agree that reform is needed. How are you doing now?
@avramwurf58042 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach doing well, I overcame it and improved myself in college. Understand that no matter what bad experiences we have, they happen for a reason. God gave us all a brain, therefore we need to use it in order to improve things which includes the education system. Good can come out of bad, and I believe that there are solutions that we can use to make things better. Yes I went through a rough time in a horrible place called public schools, but we all have a destiny otherwise we'll never learn anything. Understand?
@slowtv-drive2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing this - I'm a student teacher with less than two weeks to go before I graduate (if I pass!) It's a very tough job! The more I'm into my teacher training the more reluctant I am to pursue any type of career in teaching. I love it when a student has an 'aha' moment and the light turns on and they grasp the concepts that are being taught - that's the one good bit about the job. The more I talk with other teachers, some who have been teaching for 20 years plus, the more I realise how burnt out a lot of them are. The pressures on teachers are insanely high. Schools are under resourced, and teachers and support staff all go the extra mile (unpaid extra miles) to make things better for students. The ones that seem to last a long time in the job all seem to have developed a sarcastic sense of humour and have a tired resigned look in their eyes. You did well to leave and begin tutoring .(your videos are great, thank you). Thank you so much for your transparency and honesty - I wish you well in your endeavours
@peicai6623 жыл бұрын
Yah I feel ya! I’m teaching learners from different age group (3-88 years old!). I need to speak in different languages too! Not only physically but mentally drained and exhausted! I am also looking for another path. In Singapore it’s never easy to survive and stay fit with all the pressures and restrictions here!
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
That sounds so stressful!
@phillatella64702 жыл бұрын
Yea its a tough job, it requires a unique person to really stick with it
@elizabethmontemayor71463 жыл бұрын
I am also a member of TFA. I am in my second year teaching in Texas. I am struggling to complete my second year as I am constantly unhappy and feel stress and anxiety.
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
I'm so sorry to hear that! Sending strength & positive thoughts your way!
@jordanvereen73583 жыл бұрын
Miss Sonia, what is your advice for me? I want to start my career in teaching High School English or History teacher. There is not a lot of black male teachers. I want to get a bachelors and masters in education and then move into corporate training/diversity training/or HR?
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hey Jordan! Thanks for your message. We need more black male teachers, so your presence in the classroom would be so valuable and important. I say go for it. Teaching can be where you start, but it doesn't have to be your forever career. So if you want to move into HR later on, that's awesome! I'm excited for you!
@Michelle-pn9xt2 жыл бұрын
If you are going to teach English, your grammar has to be good. You want to start your career in teaching high school English or History teacher???? There are not a lot of black male teachers, not there is not a lot of black male teachers. If you teach your students to write or speak this way, they will need someone else to teach them proper grammar rules.
@kenyonbissett35122 жыл бұрын
I am so sorry you were set up for failure. Even doing your best isn’t enough in that setting.
@atp20162 жыл бұрын
These are all things that happened to me. Always wired up.
@mluna9cr3 жыл бұрын
Teaching is a marathon.. not a race. Ive been in this 20 years...I came from business which vaccinated me to not feel this as a job.. I enjoy more than I suffer. Manty days off a pretty easy job. Just have to have patience.
@Michelle-pn9xt2 жыл бұрын
Manty? What do you teach? You need more than patience. It is not an easy job.
@t.terrell70373 жыл бұрын
Do you have any pointers for former teachers that want to transition to full time tutoring after leaving classroom? How are benefits? How do you subsidize your medical benefits, retirement, etc? Is the pay lucrative? Thank you
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Great question! How lucrative your tutoring business is really varies from person to person and their goals. I just hosted a live training from a couple who support their family of 4 with a full-time tutoring business. If you want to get access to the training, it's part of my monthly membership! More details here: soniateach.lpages.co/4-figure-tutor/
@krish.58233 жыл бұрын
Gee, I thought it was my age that they won't even hire me to start my first year.
@chamatuition3 жыл бұрын
You all have the imposter syndrome from time to time. Your course is like the Teach first programme in the UK - you do not need any prior teaching experience but a qualification in the subject you want to teach. It can be extremely daunting.
@brianathen22772 жыл бұрын
Hello Sonia, thank you for sharing. I’ve been feeling really anxious and just mentally and physically tired. On Sundays I get panic attacks and don’t want to sit on my computer to lesson plan. It is really affecting my mental health I hate it. Have no quality of life teaching. Idk what to do. Any advice ?
@soniateach2 жыл бұрын
My heart goes out to you! I would consider exploring other career options.
@krish.58233 жыл бұрын
Do you loose your teaching credential if you don't teach under a coach for two years?
@hayley18683 жыл бұрын
Mam today I made a mistake in copy correction. I teach maths. There was a division sum the answer should be 603 as quotient but the child has written 63 and missed 0 . It was my mistake I saw the statement for that word problem and sent a correction mark ✔️✔️ and the parent called me and scolded me for that mistake and told me that he should complain to my principal about this. I apologized sincerely for my mistake and he said it's fine. But I am feeling extremely guilty and scared about this. I am in my first year of teaching. Please mam suggest me what I can do about this...
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hi Hayley! Thanks for your question. Out of respect for my paying clients, I do not provide 1:1 advice in the comments. All the best!
@teachjackie96672 жыл бұрын
You can now utilize your economic degree.
@teachjackie96672 жыл бұрын
I am a former teacher who has quit multiple times.
@ritaconley9544 Жыл бұрын
Oh my goodness, you were set up to fail. You should never have been placed in special education your first year. That takes so much more training than even a four year teaching degree. Teach for America has no idea what they are doing. I am so sorry. I can’t believe this happened to you because it never should have happened.
@soniateach Жыл бұрын
❤️❤️❤️
@weichongtang93093 жыл бұрын
Hi Sonia, thanks for sharing your story! I wanted to teach after graduating from college but found out that teaching is not suitable for me. However, I am interested in conducting online sessions for people who are interested in history. Is it ok if I message you on instagram for advice and tips?
@soniateach3 жыл бұрын
Hi Wei! You're welcome! Unfortunately due to the volume of questions I receive, I'm not able to share personalized advice via DMs. If you'd like to meet with me/discuss your personal situation, I can share a link to book a call, but just note this is a paid service. All the best!
@weichongtang93093 жыл бұрын
@@soniateach Hi Sonia, thank you for your reply. Since it is a paid service, I will have to reconsider. Thank you again!