Teaching in the Trenches: The Reality Behind Classroom Doors | Epi 2

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Are teachers just educators — or secret social workers, therapists, and supply closets rolled into one?

In this powerful episode, veteran educator Cathy Tooley pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to teach in America’s classrooms today. From heartbreaking stories of kids carrying trauma to the invisible burdens teachers shoulder daily, Cathy shares raw truths and inspiring moments that reveal the humanity behind the profession.

🎓 Highlights:

• The real reasons students act out in class (and why sending them to the office doesn’t solve it)
• A moving story of a teen who’d never been told she was beautiful — until her teacher said it
• How teachers balance lesson plans with feeding hungry kids, navigating abuse, and being emotional anchors
• Why teaching is a calling, not a “fallback career”
• Words of faith and hope for educators questioning if they can keep going

Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or simply curious about what’s happening behind classroom doors, this episode will open your eyes — and your heart.

📚 Cathy Tooley is the author of “The Education System is Broken” and a passionate advocate for educators everywhere.

Get the book on Amazon - https://a.co/d/9vf5e0E

Listen, subscribe, and share this episode to support the unsung heroes of education.

//About

Cathy Tooley is the Founder & CEO of Tools for Success and a seasoned educator with over 40 years in K–12 classrooms and school leadership. From high school teacher to principal, Cathy has dedicated her life to supporting educators. In 2014, she launched Tools for Success to provide real, in-person instructional coaching—not just “PD in a box.” She’s the author of The Education System Is Broken, a national speaker, and a fierce advocate for teachers. Through this podcast, she’s spotlighting the ripple effect of great teaching.
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