Description:
This is a book for teachers who don't want to have to quit.
Review Quotes:
Cleeves offers insightful and down-to-earth guidance for educators who find meaning through their work, but who are interested in ending their relationships with "psychopathic" school systems. Cleeves shows how the conditions of U.S. public education can cause burnout, demoralization, and exploitation, but she also offers guidance for those committed to finding ways to teach with integrity and joy. For teachers who want to stay but who are facing difficult conditions and unpalatable choices, this book is for you.
- Doris Santoro, PhD, Professor of Education, Bowdoin College, Author of Demoralized: Why Teachers Leave The Profession They Love and How They Can Stay
Cleeves' recent book describes a practical yet theory-based approach for realizing the joys and counteracting the challenges of being a teacher. The author shares her personal experience and stance as an educator throughout, making the book an easy and compelling read; at the same time, she presents a variety of perspectives based on current research and relevant for any educator. Compassion for thestruggles many teachers face is balanced with direct and probing questions or recommendations aimed at improving teaching practices, dismantling White culture in school settings, and motivating sustained passion for exceptional work with students. At the end of each chapter, Cleeves outlines clear take-home messagesand presents workbook-style checkboxes and questions that promote self-reflection and thoughtful self-care.
Within the pages of Planning to Stay, beginning teachers, seasoned classroom teachers, and teacher educators alike will find immediate and relevant guidance for developing their well-being and professional joy.
- Elisa Stone, PhD, Program Director, CalTeach; Executive Director, Berkeley Science and Math Initiative, UCBerkeley, Berkeley, CA