^{August 17, 2024}

Leave Mid-Year On Your Own Terms

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Last week, we talked about leaving mid-year when you have good relationships at your school. But, what does a mid-year exit look like when your relationships are bad or strained?

As much as you just want to leave without saying goodbye (or worse, saying something nasty no matter how true it might be), how do you exit gracefully without looking unprofessional?

Why This Matters

Toxic work environments destroy your mental and physical health. If you find yourself in a situation where relationships with colleagues or administration have deteriorated, staying through the rest of the year might not be the best option for you.

However, leaving mid-year comes with its own set of complications, especially in a school where continuity is crucial for students

Common Solutions You're Likely Considering and Why They Might Not Work:

1. Giving Notice, Effective Immediately: While this might seem like a quick solution, giving abrupt notice might damage your professional reputation and make it harder to secure future employment. Schools rely heavily on staff continuity, and leaving suddenly might create a negative perception of your reliability.
   
   
2. Powering Through: Some people opt to stay until the end of the year, despite the toxic environment. This might seem like the 'right' thing to do, but it will take a toll on your well-being and effectiveness. If your health and happiness are suffering, this approach will only hurt you more.
   
   
3. Avoiding Communication Altogether: In tense environments, it is natural to avoid difficult conversations. But, this will lead to tension, whisperings, and distrust. Be professional at all times and engage in necessary conversation to get your job done during the time you're there.

A Better Approach For You:

1. Plan Your Exit Thoughtfully: Before making any decisions, consider the timing of your departure. Aim to leave at a natural break in the school year, like the end of a semester. This minimizes disruption for students and the school and demonstrates your commitment to your professional responsibilities.
    
2. Communicate Clearly and Professionally: Draft a resignation letter that is clear, concise, and positive. Focus on your desire for personal growth and new opportunities rather than the negative experiences. If possible, have a face-to-face conversation with your principal or direct supervisor to explain your decision, maintaining a professional tone.
    
3. Ensure a Smooth Transition: Offer to help with the transition process, such as organizing your classroom, providing notes on student progress, or even helping to find a replacement. This gesture shows that you care about the students and the school, even as you move on.
    
4. Prioritize Self-Care: As you prepare to leave, focus on your mental and physical health. Engage in activities that reduce stress and seek support from friends, family, or a counselor. This will help you transition to your next role with a positive mindset. 

Summary

• Plan your departure around a natural break in the school year. 
• Communicate your resignation professionally and positively. 
• Offer to assist in the transition to demonstrate your commitment. 
• Focus on self-care to manage the stress of leaving mid-year. 

Want to Dive Deeper?

Explore strategies in the Elevated Careers Career Change Accelerator™ for making a successful career transition, even in challenging circumstances.

Your Next Steps

Ready to make a possible mid-year exit with dignity and minimal stress? 

Here's what do to next:

1. Draft Your Resignation Letter. Keep it simple. You don't owe anyone an extensive explanation. Steal my template:
   

   [Your Boss' First and Last Name]
   [School Name]
   [School Address]
   [School Address] 

   [Current Date] 

   Dear [Boss' Name], 

   Please accept my formal resignation from the position of [Position] at [School]. My last day at [School] will be [Last Day of Work]. 

   Between now and my last day, I will work with you and the team to complete an effective knowledge transfer of my activities to ensure a proper transition. 

   I am grateful for the valuable experience I gained at [School] and wish you all the best. 

   Sincerely, 

   [Your First and Last Name] 

2. Schedule a Meeting with your supervisor to discuss your decision. 
3. Prepare for Transition to help with the handover. 
4. Take Care of Yourself as you make this change. 

The key to changing careers when the timing or relationships aren't perfect is to stay professional and concise in your communication.

Some people will accept it. 

Some people will get angry.

Some people won't care either way.

None of these are in your control.

Stay classy and move forward.

Hope you'll keep this in your back pocket for when it's time to leave.

See you next week.