In today’s digital era, education is considered a vital aspect of our lives. When examining modern education, the unsung heroes are undoubtedly school teachers.
These educators are tasked with the responsibility of providing children with everything they need to grow and lead a successful life.
However, some students can be mean and disrespectful, making a teacher’s job feel almost impossible.
Sadly, that happened to Kevin Black, a teacher who called it quits on his first-ever day of teaching.
A Harrowing Experience
Taking to his TikTok account, Black posted a video in early August 2023, through which he candidly shared his experience on his very first day in a teaching role.
“So it’s my first day of being a teacher, and… I’m quitting,” Black says forlornly.
The experience was so overwhelming that it led him to draft his resignation that same day.
“I don’t want this,” he says.
Black’s shocking revelation underscores the many challenges teachers face, even when they are brimming with enthusiasm and passion for their craft.
Navigating the Complexities of Contemporary Classrooms
His 26-second video laid bare the realities many educators face when walking into modern classrooms. He said, “I went to school for no reason. I thought I [could] handle it.”
The despair in his voice was clear as he described his students as “mean” and “rude.”
Lack of Respect
Beyond the expected academic challenges, teachers today also face many behavioral issues among their students. These problems tend to overshadow their primary mission, which is teaching their entire class.
With a hint of disappointment and disbelief, Back concluded, “These kids were sneezing everywhere. So today’s my last day.”
@kevinenvy I quit on my first day of teaching.
♬ original sound
Understanding the Challenges of Teaching
Recently, educators globally have begun discussing and debating the wider issues they face at school. The difficulties they encounter are diverse, ranging from creating lesson plans to catering to the individual needs of students each day.
Moreover, the typically modest salaries most teachers earn make many wonder if it’s worth the struggle and question their career choices.
This profession can truly put huge stress on an individual. Furthermore, societal expectations and demands on teachers have increased, complicating their roles to an even greater degree.
The weight of the responsibility they bear is immense. Educators don’t just teach academic subjects; they also play the role of counselor, mentor, and sometimes even parental figure.
Community Feedback and Shared Experiences
The feedback left underneath Kevin Black’s video was rapid, with many expressing their sympathies and acknowledging the demanding nature of his chosen profession.
One TikTok user sympathized with his experience, stating that they were “23 years in” and that “this career is not for the weak.”
Others shared suggestions for Kevin. One user urged him to give it another shot, saying, “Maybe it’s just not the right age group. Don’t give up!”
Another said, “Okay, I’ve been teaching 11 years- you gotta be strict at first- first days, actually the first 9 weeks are the hardest!!”
Meanwhile, others suggested he try an alternate path. One user said they endured “2.5 years of misery” before switching careers, from teaching to becoming an ultrasound technician.
He went on to say that not only did he receive more respect in the medical field, but also better remuneration.
The Need for Adequate Training
This incident, while disheartening, has also sparked a discussion on the need for adequate training for aspiring teachers.
One piece of advice offered by a TikTok user stood out: ”This is why I’m subbing for a while first. My folks want me to teacher ASAP, but I said no, I wanna see if this is for me.”
Reflecting on the State of Education
The response and views on Black’s video speak volumes about the present state of education.
Comments like, “Get out while you can! So glad I did.” and “There is not a single day I regret leaving teaching” on Kevin’s video show how so many aspiring teachers ended up feeling disappointed.
As Kevin’s case indicates, for many educators, the reality of their role was vastly different from their expectations.
This underlines the need for a more holistic approach to teacher training and support.
Ensuring Support for Educators
As the education system keeps evolving, teachers must be offered the support and respect they deserve. These educators serve as the backbone of our future generation.
If teachers like Kevin Black continue to feel like “they went to school for no reason,” then the current education system may be in dire need of significant reforms.
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This article was produced by TPR Teaching.
Caitriona Maria is an education writer and founder of TPR Teaching, crafting inspiring pieces that promote the importance of developing new skills. For 7 years, she has been committed to providing students with the best learning opportunities possible, both domestically and abroad. Dedicated to unlocking students' potential, Caitriona has taught English in several countries and continues to explore new cultures through her travels.