Teaching Broke Me, Not Just My Bank Account

I used to think teaching would mean making a difference. Turns out, it mostly meant making do. I watched videos about Finland’s schools—smaller classes, respect, support. Then I’d walk into my American classroom and count the broken chairs. I stopped believing I could fix anything. The kids knew it, too. I’d grade papers at midnight, then stare at my paycheck and wonder how I’d pay rent. My students asked why I looked tired. I lied and said I was fine. I wanted to be the teacher who changed lives. Most days, I was just surviving. No one tells you how much hope you lose before you even quit. #TeacherBurnout #EducationReality #UnderpaidAndOverworked #Education