I’ve been a teacher for 8 years now, and anyone who knows me at all knows that teaching is my life. I love my students with all my heart, and enjoyed my job. That all changed with the pandemic.

Talk to nearly any teacher and they’ll tell you that these last couple of years have been unimaginably difficult. Added to this, I’m high-risk and terrified of contracting covid, especially with cases in our state at an all-time high and growing higher every day. The kids have been real troopers about everything, but they’re also toddlers. Masks are hit or miss, and social distancing is a pipe dream.

Our district has screwed us over at every turn, which all came to a head when our raises were taken and we were all back to earning minimum wage (since we shut down early in 2020 they listed us as “new hires” when we came back). About half the staff already quit with three more on their way out. I started looking for jobs, too.

Since the holidays, the amount of kids and staff out with covid is insane, and that’s not including the ones who came in sick anyway. I spent all day shaking I was so scared. I couldn’t take it anymore, I couldn’t wait. I told my boss that I’d finish out the week (otherwise they’d have to shut down from lack of staff) and then I’m gone.

I’ve got Big Trauma about people being upset with me, and I hate that I’m leaving my kiddos, but I can’t do it anymore. For once, I’m taking care of ME. I know this is what’s best for my physical and mental health, but it’s so hard.

TL;DR : My job was (literally) killing me but it’s still hard to leave and I’m heartbroken. I’d love some cards and words of support and encouragement ❤️