Why I left the classroom (the second time)
Teachers leave the field for a variety of reasons-- it's rarely a single factor that motivates them to hand in their badge and (if they worked at a fancy school) their campus-issued...
Charmaine
Journalism school + editing + university newspaper 2010-2013
Education grad school + full-time teaching internship 2013-2014
Teaching elementary grades + Substitute teaching 2014-2023
A recap of subbing in the ’22-’23 school year
It's halfway through May, and I've decided to round out my substitute teaching year. (There are two times a year I won't sub if I don't have to: late May and early...
Pros and cons of deciding to leave teaching
Everything changed the last month of school when I finally decided to leave teaching at the end of the year. I chose to finish out my contract term, but then I'd be...
How my last classroom observation was my best
Even though I was a total ball of nerves every time I was formally observed, my last observation was my best– and dare I say, quite enjoyable. Here’s what I did:
How I started a small business with my fourth graders
In my last month of teaching before I nonrenewed my contract, I started a small business project with my fourth-graders. How I started teaching my students about business They were an entrepreneurial...
What to say to your principal when nonrenewing
In this post, I give my advice for having that hard conversation with your principal or boss about leaving teaching.
3 Important Things to Check with HR Before You Leave Teaching
Before you leave teaching behind, be sure to address these three simple areas with your human resources department.
Be sure to do these 3 things before leaving teaching
You've made the decision to leave teaching, calculated how to financially make the move work, and set your gaze to your next adventure. It's exciting and exhausting, especially if you're still trying...
A Unique List of Alternative Career Ideas for Teachers
What other professionals can engage 20 five-year-olds sitting in a circle on a rug in a read aloud of a giant picture book half falling off an easel with a singsong voice...
My top ten transferable skills for teachers in 2024
There are so many skills great teachers possess that are valued in the workplace and marketplace. Teachers leave the field to pursue other avenues all the time, we just don't hear of...
How to calculate if you can afford to leave your teaching job
With all the challenges modern teachers are up against, it's no wonder many of them are making moves elsewhere. It's possible you're considering leaving the profession. But first thing's first-- before you...
4 Signs It’s Time to Leave Your Teaching Job
Teaching is an inspiring and important career-- I'll cheerlead anyone making a positive difference in kids' lives. But if you want to leave? I'll probably encourage you in that, too. Because I've...