I Teach, They Resist, I Break

Second year teaching middle school. I thought the first year was supposed to be the hardest, but this one hurts more. I walk into class every morning already bracing for the pushback—side conversations, blank stares, the way they look through me when I ask a question. It’s not just one kid; it’s the whole room, like they’re in on some silent agreement to not care. I try everything—games, stories, honesty. Nothing sticks. I go home exhausted, replaying every lesson, wondering if I’m just bad at this. I know they’re kids, but it feels personal. I used to think I could make a difference. Now I just hope to get through the day without feeling like I’m failing them and myself. I’m tired of fighting for their attention when I barely have any left for myself. #TeacherBurnout #ClassroomStruggles #NotJustGrades #Education