My Why
The Journey to Teaching: A Personal Transformation
Life often unfolds in unexpected ways, and sometimes, the paths we choose are shaped by circumstances beyond our control. For me, this was certainly the case. I had always vowed never to become a teacher, but life’s twists and turns led me down a different path. The loss of my husband in a tragic car accident in San Antonio, TX, left me with three young children and a profound sense of uncertainty. Moving back to Del Rio, TX, to be with my parents was a necessary step, but it also presented new challenges. Little did I know that this significant life change would ultimately steer me toward a fulfilling career in teaching.
The decision to return to Del Rio was driven by a deep need to be with my children—my youngest son was just two and a half years old; my daughter was four, and my oldest son was six. The adjustment to this new reality was daunting, and I was determined to remain close to my kids, especially as they began their educational journey. Initially, I volunteered at their schools, wanting to be involved and support them in any way I could. It was during this period of volunteering that I stumbled upon the opportunity to become a substitute teacher for the district.
Becoming a substitute teacher offered me the flexibility I needed to stay in my children’s lives while still contributing to their education. It was a role that allowed me to be present in their school environment, a comfort and necessity given the recent upheavals in our lives. As I spent time in various classrooms, I gained invaluable insights into the educational system—both its strengths and its shortcomings. This exposure sparked a realization: if I truly wanted to make a difference, I needed to become more involved.
The idea of pursuing a full-time teaching position began to take shape. I saw an opportunity to drive change from within the system. By obtaining my alternative certification, I could transition into a role where I could not only advocate for improvements but also actively contribute to enhancing the educational experience for students. The prospect of being able to influence teaching practices and policies was both exciting and motivating.
Despite the challenges of balancing a new career and raising three young children, I was determined to succeed. With determination and faith guiding me, I embarked on this new journey. The transition from being a substitute to having my own classroom was both daunting and exhilarating. It was an adjustment that required immense effort, but it also opened a world of fulfillment and joy.
Teaching quickly became more than just a job; it became a passion. The moments of joy—students' smiles, their enthusiastic responses, and the positive feedback from parents—reaffirmed my decision to pursue this path. These small yet significant interactions provided the encouragement I needed to continue, even during challenging times. The classroom became a space where I could make a tangible difference in the lives of my students, and this realization was profoundly rewarding.
Now, as an empty nester, my life has undergone another significant transition. Although my own children have grown and moved on, the classroom remains a vibrant and fulfilling place for me. The students I teach today fill the space that once was occupied by my children, and their presence helps ease the loneliness that could have accompanied this new phase of life.
In retrospect, my journey to teaching was not the one I had originally envisioned. However, the circumstances that led me here revealed a new purpose and passion. The decision to become a teacher was driven by a combination of personal necessity, a desire to contribute positively to education, and a deep-seated love for learning and teaching. It has been a transformative experience, and I am grateful for the unexpected path that led me to a career that brings me so much joy and fulfillment.