Significant Career Lesson from a Supervising High School Teacher at Pajaro Valley School District
Elisabeth's most significant career lesson is the importance of perseverance: "you don't give up," she emphasizes, highlighting the inevitable ups and downs of teaching, including moments of self-doubt alongside great successes. This resilience, she suggests, is crucial, especially given the current teacher shortage, advising others to find a supportive environment if their first experience is not ideal.
Resilience, Overcoming Challenges, Motivation, Achieving Goals, Hard Truths
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Elisabeth Rettenwender
Supervising teacher 9-12
Pajaro Valley Unified School District
American College in Paris and Smith College
Smith College BA
Ethnic & Related Studies, Psychology
Education
Education
International Student, Transfer Student
Video Highlights
1. Resilience and persistence are crucial in overcoming challenges and setbacks. Even the best educators experience highs and lows, and learning to persevere is key.
2. Finding the right working environment is vital for job satisfaction and success. If a current position isn't the right fit, don't hesitate to seek other opportunities.
3. There is a significant need for caring educators. If you are passionate about education and are dedicated to helping students, there are opportunities available despite shortages and competition.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
The most significant lesson I learned in my career was that you don't give up. Whatever happens, you stand back up, dust yourself off, and go back to the classroom the next day. You go back to the staff meeting, you go back to that parent. You just have to keep going.
There will be ups and downs in the career. There will be times when you feel like a great teacher, thinking, "Oh my God, I'm the best teacher in the whole nation." Then there will be days when you think, "Oh my God, I made a mistake. I can't believe I said that to that student," or that was a significant error that I overlooked. You can really have highs and lows.
For me, the biggest thing was to be humble, to learn the lessons, and just not give up. If you need to find a different school where you feel like you'll be more appreciated or where your work is more welcome, then you find another job. You can find your home.
There's a huge teacher shortage in America. We need people who care. If your first experience or your first school isn't the right fit, don't give up.
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