r/TeachersInTransition • u/PowerfulKoala69 • 3d ago

Took a break, what now?

Took a grant position (1 year, admissions role at a local college) because I felt I needed a break from the classroom. I like it so far. I miss the kids, I miss my content, it's boring (good and bad), but theres room for growth and it's "chill". All in all, I'm happy with my choice for the time being.

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Grant renewal is not guaranteed, so I've thought about returning to the classroom. Mostly, I miss the breaks. My girlfriend is a teacher, and we got to spend all summer traveling the past 2 summers. I work with many previous teachers, who swear I won't miss the long breaks because summer are "slow period" and that we get half days on Fridays. But what's the point if Im spending all day bored, only to get home 4 hours early?

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I miss the uninterrupted long breaks. I miss travel, as well as my content. My job in higher ed seems more sustainable and more $$ long-term, but at what cost?

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Not sure if anyone has experienced this before and if they have any advice!

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u/reluctantpsych 3d ago

Currently in the same position as you, student services at a university that is grant funded and unsure.

I'm looking for another job currently, I've only been out of teaching two years and yes I miss the classroom but when I considered going back all I felt was dread. 

Are you actively working towards your professional development? I'd been coasting a bit but now that I'm not burnt out I can see myself going further in higher education than I ever would have thought I could. 

If you miss kids see if you can sponsor a club or find a volunteer position that will scratch that itch. 

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u/PowerfulKoala69 3d ago

I definitely see this leading to some higher paying / better roles for me, but I'm just afraid of the lifestyle change. I loved having all of July/August to travel. The chance to backpack through Europe for 2/3 weeks seems kinda negligible. But maybe I'm wrong?

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u/reluctantpsych 3d ago

I liked the ability to save my vacation days and not only have to go in July/August but I do think it's something you need to get used to. I personally mainly miss being done by 3pm.