Though the decision to retire from a long career in teaching can itself be daunting, getting through the last few months before actual retirement can also be a difficult challenge. That said, those of us on the NSTA Retired Members Advisory Board (NSTAR Board) who have gone through the retirement process have some pointers for you to consider.

How Far Ahead of Time Should I Announce My Retirement?

Some people feel comfortable discussing their pending retirement openly. For them, it is a way of processing the change, gaining support, and making the transition easier. Others feel strongly that they don’t want others to know until the last possible minute, announcing their retirement only to a few close friends or to those who need to know in order to comply with state and district requirements. They may want to avoid feeling like a “lame duck,” or they may be fearful that people will “write them off” too soon, even though that may not ultimately happen.

How you want to handle telling people is a personal matter, but it is important that someone be there for you to give encouragement and support. People who have recently gone through the process or who are currently going through it can be of great help.

Remember, too, to let your friends help you bring closure. For some, retirement parties and district recognition are welcome and helpful to the process of transition. Though you may not want much hoopla to surround your retirement, people may sincerely want to do something special for you to mark the occasion. This can be positive for you, and it also helps others who care about you cope with the upcoming changes brought about by your departure. Graciously accept what is offered though you might want to ask for the chance to give input.

How Can I Share My Accumulation of Books, Supplies, and Files With Others?

By going through your files, bulletin board materials, posters, etc. -- discarding what would not be useful and keeping those things that are worthwhile -- you will be helping yourself let go of the job. Do this when you aren’t rushed as it can be therapeutic -- a time to remember and savor what the years in the classroom have meant.

Giving away items that have taken years to collect to others who can use them helps you feel that you are passing on the torch. Some retirees make donations to schools in impoverished neighborhoods. Others give books to the library of a local college that trains teachers, or they take items to an afterschool program that might be in need of them.

How Much Change Should I Plan For After Retirement?

You may be tempted to make major changes immediately after retirement, such as relocating to a different part of the country. But many people find they need time to adjust to leaving the profession, so they can make decisions in a thoughtful manner. Therefore, it may be best to wait a year before making big changes unless you’ve been planning them for a while beforehand. Amid the rush of retirement and all the paper work, as well as the physical work of moving out, perhaps some of the psychological work that goes into making a smooth retirement should be left until after the last days of teaching are done.

What Else Can I Do to Prepare Myself Psychologically?

Everyone will face the psychological challenges of retirement in their own way. Responses can range from euphoria to sadness to anger over past injustices to matter-of-fact acceptance. If you find yourself stuck in a negative mode (as some people do while coping with this huge transition), it may be helpful to seek out a counselor who can help you get over the hump.

How you leave the profession -- and the impression you make while doing it -- will be an important opportunity for you to show the kind of person you are. You will want to look back at this time with few regrets by retiring gracefully.

Teaching is a complex process that involves so much more than bringing home a paycheck. It defines who you are, giving you an identity which is often a source of self-esteem. Your work structures your time, and it provides a considerable amount of social interaction. It also provides mental stimulation and presents challenges that result in pride and satisfaction.

Well before your retirement date, it's important to give careful thought to how you will replace these different elements of your job. Experts say that you should plan for a smooth life transition just as you would prepare financially for retirement. That planning should begin three to five years prior to retirement by asking yourself who you are without your work and what you want to do with the rest of your life.

Finding ways to feel stimulated, useful, productive and valuable will help you look forward to your retirement with anticipation and delight.

Next column: What To Expect After Retirement