Hey all,
I’ve been searching all year for a great job offer in order to make leaving my public school US job “worth it”. Well, I finally got an amazing job offer, which has basically been a dream in the 2026 market for my experience / qualifications.
However, I’m emotionally struggling to accept it. My job here in US public schools FEELS like public service. Especially right now. It’s been very challenging, draining, exhausting, but there’s always been the resolve to keep going for students who don’t have anyone else. I’m an ESL teacher and have taught through ICE raids this year, deportations, etc. I’m very active in my teaching union and have really made an impact on union efforts in my southern US state.
I’m really struggling with the idea that I’m going to sell out and work for a private school that serves a very wealthy community. I feel like I’m leaving this community that relies on me behind.
Really seeking some advice from others who have felt similarly and how they got past it? Do you plan on going back at some point?
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Context: US ESL Teacher with great job offer in Tier 1 Chinese city. Already know I’m moving to Ireland for 2027/2028 school year. Next year is either staying with my US job or going to China.
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Edit: Edited to be clear, I’ve got no grudge against privileged students and I know they need as much support and critical education as anyone else. More about feeling like I’m being economically pushed out of public schools and economically pulled in to private schools abroad.