I was a teacher.

I was a teacher.

Some might discount that: Emily, you only taught for two years.

Those two years, as a 5th Grade teacher, in rural Maricopa County, Arizona, changed my life.

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It was 2008-2010.

Columbine occurred when I was in 7th grade.

Virginia Tech occurred when I was a junior in college--when I knew people attending that school (less than two hours away).

I came of age in the school-shooting era.

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My students and I had to duck and cover a couple of times (due to folks in the neighborhood brandishing weapons during domestic disputes, and other things).

Our classroom had one small window on the door and another, slightly larger window next to the door.

The door to the adjoining classroom did not have a lock on it.

Did I think about what would happen if a shooter came to our classroom?

Yes.

Did I think about how easily a shooter could walk from my classroom to the one connected to ours?

Yes.

Did I think about laying down my life for my students?

Yes.

Without a doubt, I would have protected those children however I could.

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Anyone who knows me knows this: I often think about returning to teaching.

Those were the hardest yet greatest two years of my life.

Simply put: I am who I am today because I spent two years teaching 5th Grade in rural Arizona.

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In hindsight, I left teaching for many of the reasons teachers are now leaving in droves:

-- Lack of support

-- Lack of resources

-- Being overworked

-- Being underpaid

-- Not being appreciated

-- Not feeling heard or seen

-- Not being treated as a professional

Nothing has changed for teachers.

In fact, it appears it has only worsened.

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Not many famous folks or people in power have thanked teachers and school staff for what they did on Tuesday.

Thank you is not enough.

Even so, I am grateful for you.

I hear you.

I see you.

I respect you.

I am angry for you.

I demand change, for you.

#wellbeing #enough #teachers #culture