The Final Bell: Embracing Change in Education

A woman with locs confidently leads a classroom presentation, engaging students.

Welcome to the Deep Roots, Open Skies community! As we kick off this journey together, I want to take a moment to reflect on some of the pivotal experiences I shared in the first episode of my podcast, titled "The Final Bell: My Journey to Leaving the Classroom." In the episode, I opened up about my journey as an elementary school teacher, navigating the joys and challenges that come with inspiring young minds. Picture a bustling classroom filled with laughter, where students were not just learning but living the lessons through engaging activities. Whether we were cooking fractions or venturing outside to explore geometry in nature, teaching was more than a job for me; it was a calling. However, as we all know, behind the colorful bulletin boards and enthusiastic smiles lies a different reality. The demands of teaching can often feel overwhelming. I shared my struggles, from the weight of personal challenges at home to the pressures of managing a classroom filled with diverse needs. And while I was dedicated to my students, I also faced the harsh truth about burnout and the need for support in our educational system. It’s no secret that many teachers today are feeling the strain. Recent studies reveal that nearly 50% of educators are considering leaving the profession due to burnout and a lack of resources. This statistic is alarming, and it raises important questions: How are our students measuring up? What can we do to ensure they have the tools and knowledge to thrive, not just in our country but on a global scale? In my podcast, I also reflect on the importance of mentorship in teaching. My own experience as a new teacher was shaped by a mentor who, while well-meaning, was struggling with her own challenges. This lack of structured support highlighted the gaps in our mentorship programs and the need for better guidance for both new and veteran teachers.

Despite stepping away from the classroom, I remain committed to keeping my teaching license active and continuing my professional development. I recently graduated with another master’s degree, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning. I urge all educators to consider keeping their licenses active as a backup plan in these uncertain times.

Join the Conversation

I invite you to listen to my podcast episode and reflect on your own experiences. Have you faced a crossroads in your career? What challenges have you encountered in the educational landscape? How do you think we can better support our teachers and students?

I believe that sharing our stories can foster understanding and build a community of support.

Engage with us by sharing your thoughts in the comments below or on our social media platforms. Let’s keep the conversation going!

Listen and Share!

You can tune into "The Final Bell: My Journey to Leaving the Classroom" on and I encourage you to share it with friends, family, or anyone who can resonate with the struggles and triumphs of the teaching profession.

Together, we can embrace change, learn from our experiences, and inspire one another on this journey.

Thank you for being a part of the Deep Roots, Open Skies community. I look forward to hearing from you!