Seasons Change

The spring equinox is always a time of reflection for me, but this year particularly. In December of 2022, I left my classroom for what I thought would be a short term leave of absence. I loved my students and their amazing families, but I did not feel supported, and ultimately, it became impossible to pour from an empty cup. I was burnt out, and dealing with the adverse effects of the excess stress on my physical and mental body. At that point, I decided to terminate my contract early to make time for my own healing.

It was difficult to leave the classroom. This was the community I poured so much energy and love into, but I needed time and space to catch my breath, refocus and ensure I kept my own light on in order to spread it to the people I served. When I decided to end my contract, I wanted to express my departure to kids in my class, as well as their families. With the type of relationship I had with all families, I hoped that they’d understand my decision. However, my administrative team deemed it “inappropriate” for me to do so.

I realized that at that point, I was of little value to the administration. I was a liability outside of the classroom, no longer that “asset” or that “we’re so glad you’re here!” During my time away from the classroom, I realized what I missed most was the connections I built there. I loved working with kids, supporting their families in navigating systems and advocating on behalf of my little community of scholars.

I decided to step into my(self) more and create a space in which I can connect with community and help each other grow. On this day, Spring Equinox 2023, I am welcoming a new season of growth—after a period of loss, reflection, redirection and repurpose. This is how H3RNAND3Z Educational Services came to be.