I grew up knowing that I wanted to be a teacher, and after more than 20 years in this profession, I now understand that although I eventually left the classroom, that didn't mean that I stopped being a teacher. Maybe you're wondering if you are going to be a "lifer" and stay with teaching your entire career, or if maybe teaching inside an elementary classroom may be a stepping stone for you for something else. This episode will help you to get clear about what it is you really want - and encourage you not to consider leaving the classroom until you've given this dream an honest, fair chance. To access the complete show notes for this episode, go to: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/why-i-left-the-classroom   If you're struggling with mastering your classroom management, learn more about Your Chaos to Confidence Classroom Management System here: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/confidence Connect with Lori and other new teachers by joining our Beginning Teacher Talk Private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/BeginningTeacherTalkGroup/ Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/ Connect with Lori on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlorifriesen  If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show! Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)! I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one. Xo Lori P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist