Story 04: Steph from MA: ‘Teaching Can Be Political’

My name is Steph >>>

…and I’ve been teaching since 2011.

Teacher pressure feels like >>>

…teachers are expected to solve everything on their own without help.

Teaching in 3 words >>>

Rewarding, Exhausting, Political

What made me decide to be a teacher was >>>

…I enjoy connecting with students.

A frustrating moment >>>

A student got switched into my class that hijacked the dynamic.

A proud moment >>>

My computer updated in the middle of my lesson and I was still able to teach it from memory.

A sad moment >>>

That same student who got switched to my class had trouble with 2 other teachers and was singled out a lot.

My current burnt-out level >>>

(low) 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 -5 - 6 - 7 - 8 (high)

It helps me replenish if I >>>

…get enough time to rest and I don’t have to take work home.

My support level >>>

(low) 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 -5 - 6 - 7 - 8 (high)

Find me on >>>

@teach4underdogs

My mission is to support new teachers so they are prepared for the evaluation process, can navigate workplace politics, and find the right fit.

Something I’d like to say >>>

Teaching has been very political and there is unwritten expectation that you’re supposed to just figure it out. On top of that the working environment can be cliquey.