No doubt about it: Working in today’s public schools is stressful. In October, we mentioned that the ATPE Member Legal Services Department had fielded an unusual number of calls regarding educator stress.

We know that educators might get to the point when they feel they just can’t take it anymore. When that happens, you might think that quitting is your only option. This is often not the case. A leave of absence might be an option to consider instead. It can provide a temporary break and may be a better option than a resignation, which is both final and, because teachers have contracts, can lead to long-term serious consequences.

There are several different types of leave a struggling educator might want to consider before submitting a resignation, but each has specific requirements and is available in specific situations.

To learn more about leave options, visit our guide to absences and leave.


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