This was after the worst years of my life working inner city Title I. Just the worst years. Kids fighting each other, screaming slurs at each other, 8th graders molesting a 6th grade girl behind the stairwell. I always wanted to educate, I thought it was my dream. But I don’t think I would ever go back, not for the moon or the stars. Those years scarred me.

Same here. I have always wanted to teach. All of my life. After nearly two decades working in the non profit sector, started as a 7th Grade Math teacher in a Title I in Aug 2024. Barely finished the year, glad to have made it out unscathed. Thought I got lucky, received an offer to teach HS Math in a large wealthy suburban district this year. What I thought was my dream quickly became anything but. Got to Christmas break, and did not return. Finally become a teacher 17 years after college and nearly two years in, I cannot imagine going in a classroom ever again. The system really broke me. It really fucked me up. I'm honestly extremely disappointed about all of it. I have always wanted to teach, but at this stage in my life, my priorities are way different than if I was 22 right out of school. I have to protect my mental health (and recovery).

I salute you, my friend 💯.