Shaundalyn Elliott's Diary
The First 180 Days

The First-Year Teacher Blues

Week 25

At the end of the school year, when I reflect on what I have learned about teaching, I'm sure the emotional highs and lows experienced by many of those who work in this profession will be at the very top of my list. For me, at least, this entire year has been a time of intense emotional swings.

I started out in August, as I imagine most first-year teachers do, feeling completely overwhelmed by my responsibilities. By December, those emotions had been replaced by feelings of excitement and an increased desire to teach. Now, in March, I find myself right back where I started. I live for the spring holidays and eagerly await summer vacation. I frequently ask myself if teaching is what I am destined to do. I wonder whether this profession is really my calling or if there is something else I'm better suited to.

Every veteran teacher I have spoken to has tried to convince me that all teachers experience difficult times during the first year. They have assured me that the second year will be far better. I know I'm not the only one who feels this way. Many teachers are so unhappy during their first year that they never return for a second year. Some of those who leave are the very teachers who demonstrate the most potential -- resulting in a tremendous loss for both the teachers and the students.

What is it about teaching that creates such excitement -- and such misery? What can be done to hold on to those teachers who, with experience, will preserve -- and eventually raise -- the caliber of education? What will it take to inspire first-year teachers like me to return for a second year? What will happen if that inspiration never comes? Will society continue to allow children to suffer as teacher turnover skyrockets? Will anyone listen to a frustrated first-year teacher's plea?

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Shaundalyn Elliot
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