Ex-teacher explains 'root cause' behind teachers' exodus from American education — and it's eye-opening

Teachers everywhere are either quitting or seriously considering the option for various reasons. Likewise, Mike Bonitatibus (@betterwithb), a former teacher, had his reasons to call it quits. In a video posted on his TikTok account, he spoke about the "real reason" that affects teachers' mental health, forcing them to leave the noble profession, and no, it's not the paychecks.

Low pay, lack of administrative support, and problematic students might contribute to the crisis, but Bonitatibus said that there is a bigger reason associated with the entire issue. "The root is that teachers don't have control anymore," he said. The former teacher explained that since the pandemic, great teachers who have been wanting to do well are struggling because the administration isn't allowing them to have "free rein in their classroom."

Next, Bonitatibus said that parents no longer want to support them and are always eager to blame the teachers. To fight inner battles, the teachers lower their expectations and accept the reality without questioning it. The constant fight for control adds to the frustration, forcing them to choose resignation in the face of helplessness. "Once a teacher gets to a certain level where they recognize, 'I am lowering the expectations of my classroom. This is not okay, so I have to leave,'" Bonitatibus confessed. While teachers are battling these systemic demons, the world often sees them as weak individuals who aren't able to cope with career adversities, making them slip into a never-ending guilt trap. Bonitatibus explained how the situation can only improve if the teachers lower their expectations, but are also assured control.

"I do think that parents should be involved in their education, but I think there are too many parents who are not good at that," he added, pointing at how parental involvement in classes is creating problems. Emphasizing the current dynamic, Kathy Brunner, who has worked in the education field for many years, explained how her clients, who are either teachers or former teachers, have left the profession they once loved because they were fed up with the lack of control. Besides, the teachers, she said, report that the lack of respect is another reason that they consider switching professions. Bonitatibus, who clearly understands it more than anyone else, explained that it is nearly impossible to strike a balance, but nothing will improve until the teachers regain control.

Meanwhile, reacting to Bonitatibus' video, @lynnt17 commented, "Spot on! But we are so tired of feeling defeated! It’s getting worse and worse! I’m trying not to worry about what’s not in my control, but it’s hard. I like an organized, structured classroom." 

Similarly, @aquariuscounty wrote, "Kinder teacher here, COVID babies are now in kindergarten. I’ve been teaching for a decade. Parents run my classroom, admin supports my parents, and 90% of my 28 children are altruistic. Yeah, contemplating quitting. I’m so stressed and overstimulated; I don’t want to go to my classroom anymore. Teaching isn’t fun anymore. And I’m underpaid!" @thecuriousone03 wrote, "A big problem is that schools no longer remove or have punishments for the problem kids. And those kids make it hell for the teacher and other students. Then everybody falls." @ec.260 confessed, "As someone who is leaving the profession after this school year, this is the best explanation as to how I feel I’ve heard. Thank you for bringing attention to this!"

You can follow Mike Bonitatibus (@betterwithb) on TikTok for more teacher-related content.

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