There are so many things you can do when you decide to leave the classroom. If you are anything like me, before I left being a classroom teacher, I pondered what would I do in the meantime. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a real plan. I just knew that I did not want to be the teacher of record anymore. I did not want to be responsible for saving the world. Well, being a teacher was not responsible to that extent, but it sure did feel like it.

During my down time, I would think of ways in which I could use my skillset and earn an income. I came across sites like Outschool, Teachable, and Podia. These are sites in which one can teach and sell courses. I considered subbing a day or two out the week. However, for me, subbing was a reminder of why I left the classroom in the first place. In the meantime, I would tutor students that needed extra help and support. I even provided online tutoring services. This gave me the freedom I wanted while allowing me to continue to make a difference in students’ lives. If you find yourself leaving education, just know there are so many things that you can do that does not require a new skillset.

In the meantime, I’m learning to simply be. I’m learning to exist without the alarm and without the bells upon dismissal. I am learning to engage in the things that I enjoy. I am learning to be thankful for the simple things. I’m learning to sit in the silence and appreciate the calm. In the meaning, I am the one being taught, learning about me. So as a teacher, when you decide to leave the classroom, teach in the meantime. Teach and cultivate yourself to being the best version of you.