When the final bell rings and students rush out of the classroom, many people assume teachers go home and relax, but that’s seldom the case. From grading assignments to planning lessons and balancing their personal lives, teachers have busy schedules that many students never see. The “secret life” of a teacher reveals just how much work happens behind the scenes.
For Patrick Meyer, a Catholic Christianity teacher, life outside the classroom includes staying active and spending time with friends.
“I have a few hobbies,” Meyer said. “I go to 312 Fit, which is a high-intensity workout class that I love. I’m also in a volleyball league and a kickball league with my friends.”
Even after school ends, Meyer’s day is not over yet. He usually spends time speaking to other religion teachers about their day before heading to his workout class
“I love watching Survivor on Wednesdays,” Meyer said. “It’s something I look forward to during the week.”
Teachers also spend many hours working outside the classroom. Meyer says he spends about four to five hours each week grading assignments or planning lessons.
Balancing work and personal life can sometimes be difficult. Meyer explains that finding a healthy balance is important in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
“It’s tough balancing work, friends, and family,” Meyer said. “But practicing moderation is important. It can’t be all work and it can’t be all fun.”
Social Studies teacher Dane Mayer, shared a similar experience when it comes to balancing teaching responsibilities with personal time. Mayer often stays after school working.
“Most days I’m still here for a bit after school ends,” Mayer said. “I either have Speech, DnD Club, or some grading to do.”
Depending on the week, Mayer spends anywhere from one to six hours working at home on grading or planning. Despite the workload, he still finds time for personal hobbies such as watching movies, reading books, and even taking a stained glass-making class.
Teaching can also be emotionally demanding, something students may not always notice.
“Some weeks the balance is difficult because there’s so much to do,” Mayer said. “Teaching can also be emotional because we care about our students, and sometimes that follows us out the building.”
Students often notice the effort teachers make to make class fun. Freshman Kasey Peña described Meyer as a amazing teacher.
“Mr. Meyer is very funny and always brings a good vibe to the class,” Peña said. “He knows how to make people smile when they’re having a bad day.”
Peña said Meyer’s teaching style makes learning more enjoyable compared to other classes.
“He brings fun into learning,” Peña said. “When I’m in his class, I actually want to learn something because his energy is so radiant.”
Both teachers agreed that one of the most important things they want students to remember is that teachers are people too.
“Teachers are human,” Mayer said. “We have lives outside of school and feelings just like everyone else.”
