I know most teachers, particularly those with young children at home, are struggling to find a work/life balance in this brave new world of remote teaching. But I'm really struggling and my child is a young adult.
So why am I struggling? Screen time, for one reason. I'm in front of a computer from 8-3 each day. I take a short lunch break, and then I'm back to work. I answer emails, explain and reexplain what students are to do, grade, create lessons, and then attend webinars and/or learn new online platforms. At 5 pm, I have to jump back on and take attendance. And the next day, I do it all over again.
I'm struggling with lack of face to face contact with people other than my family. I'm an introvert. But I like my colleagues and I miss popping next door to talk about an issue or concern, or ever something good. My colleagues make me laugh. Sometimes they pop into my room and force me out of my shell. I'm lonely.
This experience has forced me to understand that I need to make friends and not rely on my teacher colleagues. I've asked a couple of colleagues who I thought were friends if we could have a video chat, but they can't. Or won't. I don't know. I'm sure they're as overwhelmed as I am.
I'm worried about my students. Several have indicated to me that they aren't doing well. And yet, I've offered to video chat with them, and they've politely thanked me and said no. I can only imagine their struggles.
I'm a teacher, and I'm struggling as I learn new platforms, new ways to teach. It's exciting and frustrating and difficult all at the same time.
I'm a teacher, and I'm struggling with the stiffness and soreness that comes from sitting for seven hours.
I'm a teacher, and I'm struggling with loneliness, sadness, grief. I'm mourning the end of the year without saying goodbye to my students. I'm mourning the end of the year without saying goodbye to my colleagues. I'm mourning the end of the year without saying goodbye to my classroom and the building. I'm mourning the loss of a routine that's as familiar to me as making spaghetti sauce.
I'm a teacher, and I'm struggling, and though I know I'm not alone, I feel like I am.
