release from contract

[Runnin_Crazy882]

What is the name of your state? TX

I'm a third year teacher. I taught high school math for two years in Maryland, then I got married and moved to Texas and just started teaching middle school math. I haven't enjoyed teaching like I thought I would, but everyone kept assuring me that it would get better. It's NOT. In fact, this year it has become unbearable. I am sick with stress and I am not doing a good job. It scares me when I see the person that I am becoming in the classroom. I yell and yell and try everything else I can think of, but I just can't seem to get control. My administration is insane in what they expect of teachers...the other teachers agree and I know of 8 (experienced teachers) who are leaving after this year. My problem is that I really don't think I can make it to the end of the year. I feel like leaving mid year is selfish and detrimental to my professional life, yet it would be such a relief to be GONE!!!!! I have researched jobs in other fields and feel like I could find something better suited to my personality and strengths, but i am worried about breaking my contract.

What happens if I leave mid-year?
How do I go about doing that...who should I talk to first, etc?
Will it affect my ability to get a job in another profession?

HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[cbg]

What does your contract say will happen if you leave mid-year?

 

[Runnin_Crazy882]

it's not very clear about mid year. It talks about leaving between school years without penalty, but it doesn't say anything about mid year...with or without penalty...

 

[notsmartmark]

Contracts are in place for your protection, not your punishment. The goal is so that districts can't hire and fire based on population swings and willy-nilly reasons. The primary protections for districts are so that teachers can't jump from district to district, not to hold you in a state of prison. I would check with your union regarding how the district has handled similar cases.

But, I would advise you to find a way to stick it out through the year unless it will severely impact your mental health or you have the job of a life-time offer.

If you are going to stick it out look internally and externally for solutions.
Work on the structuring and pacing of your lessons.
Controlling students is best managed by your actions, not reactions to students misbehavior.
But, include means of external control.
Start an after school club. Target invitations for those students who need to make up time.
Do not think that administration can be your solution.
Students need to see you as the authority in your classroom.
Administration may need to support, but will never be an effective solution.
Communicate with families, especially positive comments.
Invite parents into your class.