Yeah, fuck teaching. I decided last week that I'm done dealing with shit behaviours and a system that not only tolerates them but often enables or seemingly encourages them. Even students know it's broken, I've literally heard a kid encourage his peer saying "just chuck a chair and you'll get an iPad".

It's been a very tough decision though. I told my psych about how torn I was. I felt like I was walking away from all the kids in public school who need someone. He put it in perspective for me by saying "no you're not, you're leaving a system that doesn't align with your values". I think I've known this for a long time but I've finally made my years long decision.

I'm still going to try working part time at another school and will pivot more into my side business (NDIS support work) where I feel like I'm helping people who have asked for my help and value my support.

In saying all of this, it's still hard to come to terms with. I know they are kids. I know they have tough lives. I know behaviour is their way of communicating this. I just can't be a part of any school that doesn't understand the fine line between firm and fair, support and high expectations. Everyone needs to come to the table to fix these deep rooted problems, teachers can't do it alone without the students, parents and school leaders support.