Pandemic effects will ripple through our future

Just this morning I found out that two young and talented English and journalism teachers are leaving the profession when the current school year ends. I know one of their stories, and she was clear that being forced to teach in-person all school year (at a school near the ski resorts) had put her in a difficult position concerning her own health and the health of her father, who has cancer.

I don't know the particulars of the other teacher but assume that leaving mid-career was a tough call for her.

I also know that most teachers are "hitting their stride" after teaching 8-10 years, as both these teachers are, and that the loss of such expertise and experience is nearly impossible for a school to overcome, at least in the next few years.

Both of these teachers have worked hard over at least the past 6-8 years to develop strong media programs at their schools along with strong bonds with students and the community. They will be missed.

Here is something I do NOT know, but strongly suspect: a large number of experienced teachers are likely having the same sort of thoughts as these two who have made their official decisions. And teachers who are in the last few years before they can max out their pension benefits (usually with 30 years of total experience) might be doing some calculations as to whether 100 percent of possible benefits or 90 percent (or less) is enough to provide a solid retirement.

Something else I suspect: if you happen to be a person just finishing up a college degree and considering public school teaching as your first career, the next year or two may provide a LOT of options and (maybe?) a bit better compensation. 

For every business that suffered during the pandemic there are businesses that grew or found new products and services to offer, but the overall movement has likely been to larger, better-connected businesses and away from smaller businesses (see Amazon, for instance).

Larger, better-funded school districts will offer some tempting opportunities for teachers in smaller, rural districts. Rural school districts are often like the minor leagues for teachers (not that there aren't plenty of educators who prefer that environment and who would never leave).

This is the time of year teachers have always announced retirements and made decisions about alternative futures, so I shouldn't exaggerate the effects of the pandemic just yet.

But who can doubt that changes are likely accelerating in all areas of life -- education, business, entertainment, and more?