Janelle Schuurman, an elementary school teacher in Michigan for 11 years, has left her post to join Costco, one of the world's largest retail brands, citing unfair pay and mediocre benefits. In her own words, "I dreamt of being a teacher since the time I was in kindergarten. I remember thinking, 'I'll just stay here until I'm old enough to be the teacher.'"
Despite her passion for teaching, she reached her breaking point in 2022, citing extreme burnout from teaching elementary students and sought a new path. Reflecting on her decision, Schuurman emphasised that teachers must be supported and paid reasonably to stay in the classroom.
