From Reluctant Learner to Passionate Educator

“Taking a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of teaching. It’s in these moments of reflection that we find the seeds of growth. As educators, our experiences in the classroom shape not just our students’ lives, but our own. Here’s to the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the unwavering dedication that fuels our passion.”

— Jessica

Well, what if I said, that I never wanted to be a teacher?

I loved reading and learning, but school was not one of my favorite places to do it! So, how did I end up 30 years later retiring from teaching? Becoming a mother! Yup, mother turned educator. Not too far-fetched. Parents are the first teachers a child has in their life.

After my children got older I fell into education by chance. The perfect job was being a Teacher Assistant in my children’s district. I needed limited education and the hours fit. Long and short I learned on my feet that being a teacher was much different than parenting! I spent 14 years learning what works and what not to do from some of the best teachers. My main job was building relationships with students who were disrupting the classroom.

Why is sharing my journey from the very beginning important? Every experience. every failure helped mold me into the teacher I became. In my late 30’s being an adult learner in college struggling with being a constructivist learner and becoming a teacher gave me a new awareness of my students’ needs.

My first commitment to myself as a teacher was that I am a life-long learner and I would build something new into my toolkit every year. I may reuse materials, lesson plans, and resources, but I would not let myself get stuck. I would use them in a new way or add another activity. I vowed to stay in the know with all the best practices reading and collaborating with others. professional learning is my addiction!

It didn’t take long to get pulled into teacher committees! Writing curriculum, school leadership team, grade level coordinator… I found out there was more to being a teacher than the world in my classroom. Now, not everyone takes this route, but it was a natural fit for me. It was important for me to see the big picture of the school and the district and how it all fits together to support students as they travel through their academic careers. Then came. Teaching teachers! A colleague said to teach with me, and then a new path began. Providing professional learning opportunities for teachers in my district! It seemed like a natural step I loved soaking up as much as I could get! This took more learning, failures, and reflection. Finally, in about 8 years, I became the director of our local Teacher Center. A teacher’s most important tools are professional learning and self-reflection. The more you know, the less stress you have…

Thirty years later, I couldn’t imagine not being a teacher! Never, say never! Education is my passion, it is in my soul. The other commitment I made to myself was I would leave the classroom before I became that teacher hanging on just to hang on. I am ready to take all that I learned from my successes, failures, students, colleagues, and adventures I got myself into with YOU! I am ready to support teachers who are eager to continue learning new ways to engage and motivate their students. Join me on this journey, and start your own adventures.

Tip #1 Do not engage in the back-and-forth struggle. The last word is not important.
Tip #2 Every student has varying levels of needs and you need to meet them where they are at.
Tip #3 Self reflection and Reflection with others help you grow as a teacher.
Tip #4 Be a teacher leader, and getting involved allows for the teacher's voice.
Tip #5 Even if you do not want to facilitate professional learning, attend as much as you can anywhere and everywhere! Keep building your toolkit.
Tip #6 Remember new learning means strengthening your skills as a teacher.

So here I am, after thirty years, retiring from teaching—something I never imagined I would do. My journey from reluctant teacher to passionate educator has taught me invaluable lessons, not just about teaching, but about life. Embrace every opportunity, learn from every experience, and remember that the most unexpected paths can lead to the most rewarding destinations. Never say never, and keep learning—always.

Join me on this journey, start your adventures, and remember: teaching is not just a profession, it's a calling.

#TeacherReflection #EducatorJourney #TeachingMoments