Relate, Then Educate: The Untold Stories of Teachers, By Teachers

by Andrea Avey, Rick Holmes

Compiled by two former educators, Relate, Then Educate contains the firsthand stories of sixteen seasoned educators’ professional hurdles and personal moments of heartbreak and joy. To be an educator is to be thrown into the classroom without much practical training. Young teachers can languish for years without knowing if they’re “doing it right,” and, despite the wealth of tactical curriculum resources available, the intangible needs of educators often go overlooked and unmet. Former educators Rick Holmes and Andrea Avey understand this perspective well; they collected the stories within Relate, Then Educate for teachers seeking experienced insight and support as they decide the trajectory of their career.  This unbiased collection of candid and approachable experiences are written to challenge, inspire, correct, and console teachers—and humans—who need direction. It features stories of unthinkable tragedy, like the tragic death of a student midyear, and rich rewards, like lifelong friendships with students. Relate, Then Educate breaks down each teacher’s story into three their path into education, a defining moment in their career, and an instructional best practice.

196 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2023

Reviews

[Kari Rich · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you don’t understand what today’s educators are going through, read this book. It took me TWO years to finish it because I would sob after almost every chapter. I was encouraged and supported but I was also reminded of why I am so exhausted and broken down from the difficulties we face every day. Thank you Rick and Andrea for your dedication and for telling these stories! Teaching is not for the faint of heart. Thank you for the support and encouragement!

[Amber Mcmath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just closed this book and have a lot of feelings and words that are too many for a proper review. Simply, this book is like medicine for educators. Each story relieves a pain point. I administered the book in doses depending on what kind of day I had at school. It worked! Truth, solidarity, and those unique teacher fingerprints that make everything better. I recommend this healing book to all!

[Bryce Harkrider · Rating 5 out of 5]

Important book for educators those not educators to be exposed to the realities of teaching and a balance of both. Builds through the end and finishes with a strong and thoughtful exhortation. So much value in educators.