As a teacher, there are countless moments that make me grateful for the classroom. Despite challenges, the reasons to stay in the classroom far outweigh the obstacles. Here are 13 amazing reasons why I’m not leaving the classroom anytime soon.
- It’s where God has called me to be
I didn’t want to be a teacher, and I fought it for years. I had other plans, but God had a different idea. He hit me over the head with a proverbial 2×4 (just like Jonah from the Bible) and showed me that teaching was where He wanted me. Once I realized I didn’t have a choice in the matter, I became a teacher, and I have been blessed tremendously by it ever since. I feel God’s presence guiding me in this calling every single day. - I love math and I can share it with others
Math has always been a passion of mine. The opportunity to share that enthusiasm with students is a privilege. Helping others understand the beauty of math brings me joy. - Great benefits
The benefits of teaching, from health insurance to retirement plans, provide a sense of security. It’s one of the many perks that make this career a long-term choice for me. - Math and computer science shapes the world around us
The world runs on math and technology. I’m excited to be part of a field that is so integral to everyday life. Teaching these subjects allows me to equip students with skills that will shape their future. - It gives me pure joy
There’s nothing like the joy of seeing a student’s eyes light up when they finally grasp a difficult concept. That sense of fulfillment is what keeps me going. - Snow days
Let’s be honest—snow days are a teacher’s dream! They give us a chance to recharge, spend time with family, and reflect on our work. - Amazing coworkers
Having a supportive team of colleagues makes a huge difference. I’m surrounded by like-minded individuals who inspire me every day. - Amazing administration
The support and encouragement from our administration are invaluable. They help foster a positive and collaborative environment that benefits both teachers and students. - Impact future generations
Teaching gives me the chance to impact future generations. I know the lessons I impart today will carry forward, shaping not only their education but also their character and worldview. I was once asked in a teaching interview, “What would you like your obituary to say about you?” My answer was, “That I made an impact on at least one student’s life.” I still mean that with all that I am. If I can make a difference in just one student’s life, I know I’ve done my job. - Continuous learning
The world is constantly changing, and so is education. I love that teaching offers me opportunities for lifelong learning, both from my students and the ever-evolving subjects I teach. - Building relationships
Teaching is more than just delivering lessons—it’s about connecting with students. While we are taught in school that building relationships is crucial, you can’t truly understand the value of it until you live it out. The difference it makes in the classroom is profound, and it’s the #1 thing I always tell first-year teachers. Building those personal connections with students doesn’t just help them academically, it helps them grow as individuals, creating a classroom environment that is supportive, engaging, and encouraging. - Opportunity for creativity
Every day offers a chance to be creative, whether it’s finding new ways to teach a difficult concept, designing engaging lessons, or coming up with fun classroom activities. The creativity in teaching keeps me excited and motivated. - Living out my faith
As a Christian teacher, I have the privilege of living out my faith in the classroom. My name means “Beacon Light,” and I take that seriously. In a school system where I’m not allowed to push religion, I still strive to be a light to my students by modeling love, kindness, and integrity in everything I do. Whether it’s being patient with a struggling student, showing respect to my coworkers, or encouraging students to always do their best, I try to be a reflection of Christ’s love in a way that is felt but not forced.
These reasons remind me why I’ve chosen this path and why I continue to be passionate about teaching. The reasons to stay in the classroom, for me, have become so clear over the years. Every day is an opportunity to make a difference, and I wouldn’t trade this calling for anything.
I’d love to hear from you! What’s your reason for staying in the classroom? Or if you’re not a teacher, what’s something you love about your work or calling? Leave a comment below and let’s continue the conversation!
