Episode 149: What to Do When Your School No Longer Feels Like a Safe Place

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This isn’t your typical episode about strategies or games. Today, we’re talking about something real, something we don’t say out loud enough in our teacher circles: What do you do when your school no longer feels like home?

I’m joined by the amazing Kia D. London, a world language educator and returning guest, who opens up about the pain of leaving a school she once thought she’d retire from. In this raw and vulnerable conversation, we talk about what happens when your admin doesn’t support you, the grief that comes with leaving, and how to begin again—without losing yourself in the process.

Whether you’re in a toxic school environment or supporting a teacher who is, this episode will make you feel seen and remind you: You are not alone.

🎧 Tune in now, and let’s have the conversation we all need. 💛

Show Notes:

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• What to do when your principal doesn’t support you
  
  
• Signs of a toxic school culture
  
  
• Why grief is real when you leave a school (even if it was your choice)
  
  
• The importance of honoring your emotions while starting over
  
  
• How Kia rebuilt her confidence and professional identity in a new space
  
  
• Why we need to normalize conversations about burnout, grief, and integrity
  
  

This episode is for any teacher who has ever felt stuck, unsupported, or unsure whether it’s time to go. It’s also for those who are rebuilding after a hard transition.

🔗 Links & Resources

🎙️ Kia's podcast:
 Wisdom From An (Almost) Failed Teacher — Powerful, reflective episodes from Kia’s journey as an educator and human being.

📘 Related Blog Post:
What to Do When Your School Is No Longer a Safe Place – A deeper dive into Kia’s story and practical steps for teachers navigating unsupportive environments.

🌐 Connect with Kia:
Instagram: @clases_de_london

Website: bit.ly/klondon

Podcast: Wisdom From An Almost Veteran Teacher

Facebook Group: Culturally Diverse and Equitable Curriculum Design Group

🌐 Connect with Claudia:
Instagram: @growingwithproficiency
Website: www.growingwithproficiency.com

📩 Want more support and resources for your teaching journey?
 Join The Spanish Teacher Academy → growingwithproficiency.com/academy

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🧡 Gracias for listening, profe. You're not alone—and your story matters.