Chapter 1: A Decade of Dedication

After nearly ten years in the teaching profession, I made the difficult choice to resign. Over time, my passion for the job waned, transforming my once vibrant persona, ‘Peter the Teacher,’ into the weary ‘Mr. Murphy.’

During this decade, I formed close connections with my students, cherishing the uniqueness of each child. However, a pivotal moment last year shifted my perspective dramatically.

As a primary school educator, I had the privilege of witnessing three classes progress from their initial struggles with language and writing to performing English plays by the fourth grade. It was fulfilling to see all my students thrive.

My experience wasn't limited to just primary education; I also taught kindergarten, middle school, and high school, which gave me a comprehensive view of the educational spectrum.

Around the midpoint of the last school year, I was still uncertain about leaving. My affection for my students persisted, despite my growing fatigue. But then, an incident occurred that changed everything.

A seventh grader, frustrated, began kicking a ball in class. When I asked him to put it away, he chose instead to kick it out the window and sulked in his seat. I couldn't comprehend the root of his frustration, nor could I speculate about it, but it felt all too familiar.

I realized this boy was not unique, despite what his parents might believe. He mirrored countless others I had encountered before—a mere repetition in a long line of students.

This sobering realization weighed heavily on me. I had never considered my students in such a way before; I had always viewed them as individuals, even the challenging ones.

This newfound understanding lingered with me throughout the week as I conducted my classes. Every fresh-faced student, whom I once greeted with enthusiasm, now felt like just another iteration of those from my past.

I questioned my effectiveness as an educator. It felt disheartening and hopeless.

I pondered, ‘How many more iterations of John, Ege, Sarah, and Elif could I handle?’

At 35, one should be at the height of their career, yet I found myself ready to call it quits. My experiences had dulled my enthusiasm, and all I could think was, ‘I’ve encountered this before.’

Perhaps teaching had revealed this truth about me rather than the other way around.

Currently, I work part-time at a college, where I consult and occasionally teach. Part of me took this role in hopes of rekindling my passion, while another part sought closure from my teaching days.

Every child is indeed special, but I feel as though I’ve seen them all at some point.

The one constant is my hope for their happiness and well-being.

Conclusion

This reflection isn’t truly about the students; it’s about me. I watch these young individuals, who once filled my classrooms, move forward, and I grapple with my own envy of their freedom to progress.

I yearn to move on as well, yet letting go proves to be a challenge.

This first video, titled "I Quit Teaching after 10 years | HONEST TRUTH| Activity Author," discusses the emotional journey of leaving the teaching profession after a significant period, highlighting the truths and challenges faced.

The second video, "I Quit Teaching: What Happened (10 Years Later)," provides insights into the aftermath of a teaching career, reflecting on the lessons learned and the impact on personal growth.