Redefine Teaching

Welcome everyone.

First and foremost we’re all here for one thing; students. If you aren’t, then teaching for you is a job, not a passion. That distinction matters. If you’re reading this as a passionate educator who wants to influence lives, shape futures, and leave something meaningful behind, then welcome. You’re exactly who this space is for.

The question we all get asked is “what is your why?” It’s my assumption that most teachers will answer this question in such a way that it would please the asker, but the truth is likely much different. In researching for this entry, I came across a subreddit where teachers revealed this truth behind the anonymous veil of the internet.

“Pay, summers off”

“Pension, working 188 days”

“Benefits, a lot of vacation”

“Eight more years until retirement”

What this tells me is not that all teachers feel this way—but that many do. And that’s a problem. They are there for themselves. To me, the question of why we are educators should be universal amongst all of us. Imagine any other profession that is in service of the public. Would you rather a police officer take that job because he wants the pension, or because he has a heart for helping people? Should a politician have a career in pursuit of personal financial gain, or should they earn such merit based on their record of service to their constituents? These are easy questions to answer, and so is the one we’re asked when someone wants to know why we’re a teacher.

Of course we all have lives to maintain, bills to pay, healthcare needs, etc. Nobody should be made to feel shame for needing basic human necessities, but in a profession as precarious and delicate as teaching, our collective future is dependent on selfless service and sacrifice. Even to those who demand everything from us, who drain us, who push us to our limits. Especially those who demand everything from us, who drain us, and who push us to our limits. They’re often the ones who need us most. And yes, we do it for little pay, we work long hours, we follow procedures that don’t make sense, we field nasty emails and phone calls from parents, because we’re doing it for students.

Teaching should be driven by a passion for learning, empowerment of young minds, and the desire to leave behind a lasting legacy and impact on a community. So how do we redefine what it means to be a teacher? How do we reignite purpose in veteran educators who feel burned out or disconnected? How do we guide new teachers who are overwhelmed, discouraged, or questioning if they belong? How do we make teaching something people don’t just enter—but commit to for decades?

I don’t have all of the answers. At the time of writing this first post, I’m only a second year teacher. However, I do believe that I have a perspective worth sharing; some insight into teaching that I can share with others. This blog can be helpful for new teachers who are struggling to find their way; and for veteran teachers who need a reset, not a resignation.

This blog is not about perfection.
It’s about honesty. Reflection. Growth.

So if you’re willing to rethink, relearn, and redefine what teaching can be—stick with me. Together, we’ll find our way.