When starting out in our teaching careers, most teachers don't think about moving to different schools. I came into my teaching career thinking, "OK, this is it! This is the job in which I'm going to retire!" I honestly thought that I would start teaching at my current school and finish my teaching career at my current school. I dabbled in several activities — including a course called Advancement Via Individual Determination — and became very attached to my school. Little did I know that there would be a series of incidents that would cause me to leave, never looking back.

I told my students today that I wouldn't be returning next year. I cried. They cried. It was a rough day. After dispelling rumors of being fired or laid off due to budget issues, I explained to my students that my standards and expectations were not in line with the standards and expectations set forth by the school and district, and that I was leaving by choice. I also explained to them that it was not an easy decision, and that it was not anyone's fault, as kids tend to blame themselves for negative things. We discussed in vague detail the series of circumstances leading up to the decision, and that the part that frustrated me the most was that they all deserved a GREAT education. I knew I could give them a great education, but not in the given environment.

You see, great teachers need great support systems. It's not an easy job. Great teachers put all of themselves into their teaching: mind, body, soul, heart and every other ounce of their being (which partially explains the need to go to bed at 7:30 every night). When teachers don't get the support they need, they get burned to a crisp and, ultimately, leave the teaching profession altogether. The average lifespan of a teacher is five years. I want to outweigh those odds and continue inspiring students until I'm old and gray. In order for me to do that, I need to be in a place with colleagues who are like-minded in terms of standards and expectations. I know I've found that place and am extremely excited to enter this new step in my career.   

I will miss many of my students, but will definitely carry them with me in spirit from this point on, every step of the way.