3rd year? Ha!
Joining MTC was one of the greatest opportunities presented to me in recent years. Not only was I able to fulfill my lifelong dream of becoming an educator, I was able to do this WHILE earning a graduate degree…and a free computer! I have met some awesome people and worked alongside some of the most impressively driven, dedicated teachers. Sadly though, this feeling of pure joy and euphoria has slowly evaporated over my time in the Mississippi Delta- and I’m in search of that again.
I never thought I would say this, or feel this way about a place or about teaching, but I am so unhappy here. Unhappy with the rural lifestyle, the oppressed mindsets that many African-Americans have, the victim mentality witnessed in adults and my students, the misuse of resources and government aid, the lack of diversity- culturally and mentality, the constant blame, lack of emotional and professional support…the list goes on. It’s time for something new!
So, no. I will not be staying a third year…USELESS (maybe) I can teach a non-state tested subject. But even then, I will likely leave.
Top 10 Reasons:
- 1. I hate the constant pressure on state-tested teachers, despite the students’ ability level. (I have students in Algebra I who scored minimal and basic on their 7th grade MCT2…)
- 2. I have 1 more year of teaching in me before I decide to go back to finance or on to culinary arts. I would prefer for that 1 year to be in an excellent school.
- 3. The Mississippi Delta has little to offer a young adult socially.
- 4. The students are too aggressive and apathetic for me. I have seen a stark change in myself by just being in such an abrasive environment. Gotta get “me” back!!!
- 5. I would like to travel/live abroad, and next year may be the year I am able to check it off my bucket list!
- 6. There is an amazing church in Memphis that I really want to get more involved in.
- 7. Mississippi teachers don’t get paid enough.
- 8. The lack of diversity is killing me. Same people, same ideas, same thoughts, same bullshit.
- 9. Tasty food…but fatty food! :(
- 10. Cupid seems nonexistent here… </3
I have learned SOOOO much about myself and life by living in Mississippi. I definitely wouldn’t change this experience for anything. It was tough, but soooo worth it.
So long Mississippi. Until we meet again. <3
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