Sunday, February 26, 2006

Tired... so tired.

I'm worn out. Burned. Fried. Just call me crispy.

Get the idea?

This year hasn't necessarily been any harder than others. I'm not teaching any more students or more preps. I don't think the kids this year are any more challenging than the average 7th or 8th grader (which is plenty challenging as it is!).
Maybe I'm just ready for a change. I've been teaching for 9 years.; that's waaaay longer than I've ever had any job before. I still love the kids, but there's just so much crap that goes along with the job.

I'm probably just frustrated. Spring break is coming up soon... that should help.

3 comments:

"Ms. Cornelius" said...

After I had taught at the same middle school for 11 years, I transferred to the high school. I loved middle school age kids-- it was the "middle school philosophy" I couldn't stand any more. No student accountability for learning any material, a thousand field trips to give them life experiences instead of making sure they knew how to write a sentence with proper spelling and grammar, and, worst of all, a dictate that classes be easy so that affective development could be the focus.

The decision was great. I think high school teachers actually have it a bit easier, and I no longer get goggle-eyed stares and/or pity when explaining my occupation. Plus, I got to have some of my students again, and that was great fun.

I love teaching, too, but middle school can grind you down.

When we break out of this winter weather, you'll probably feel better. Take it easy on yourself in the meantime.

Anonymous said...

I hope you are not thinking of jumping ship and going over to the "Dark Side"...administration. I know it's tempting to be able to double your pay, but male teachers in the classroom are a very needed commodity.

Unknown said...

I teach 8th grade language arts and over the past few years since NCLB I have become progressively more and more exhausted. The work load is daunting and impossible to finish even working 12 hour days which I have been doing for 25 years! For some reason I can't do it anymore. I used to work from 7:30 am until 3:00 pm then work until 6:30 and leave only because I felt like passing out. Then after getting home I would work until 10 pm. This year I just can't do it anymore. My doctor has been telling me for years that I'm killing myself! I'm afraid Ive really done that. I feel dead. Depleted. Exhausted. P.S. I work every vacation and holiday. In fact I always looked forward to having the extra time to get caught up on grading! I have missed out on numerous exotic vacations so I could catch up on my work! I have missed out on life. And now we have underinformed right wing politicians trying to make teaching even more insane. I feel like my life has been a waste. Get out while you still have a life!