They Just Need You to Stay
The Unwritten Curriculum of Social-Emotional and Behavioral Classrooms
💛 For every teacher who’s ever whispered, “I don’t know if I can do this again.”
This isn’t a book of strategies.
It’s a story of survival and quiet strength.
They Just Need You to Stay follows the true story of a J-1 teacher placed in a Social-Emotional Behavior classroom during her first year in the U.S.
Six students.
Six storms.
One teacher who refused to give up.
This book shows what it really means to teach when lesson plans fail and emotions take over.
You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe even breathe easier knowing you’re not alone in the exhaustion, the guilt, or the quiet victories that don’t always make it into your lesson plans.
Because this book isn’t about having it all together…
it’s about showing up when everything falls apart.
✨ You’ll Discover:
What teaching really looks like inside social-emotional classrooms
Why connection always works better than control
The truth behind “staying calm” when everything feels like chaos
Gentle reminders that your work… and your heart… still matter
Who This Book Is For
Teachers working in Social-Emotional (SEB), SPED, or high-needs classrooms.
J-1 and international educators adjusting to the realities of U.S. schools
New teachers who feel overwhelmed and unseen
Anyone who’s ever thought, “Maybe I’m not built for this.”
This book is for you.
A Note from the Author
This book was inspired by a real J-1 teacher whose story reminded me what teaching truly means…
not control, but connection.
Not perfection, but presence.
© 2025 Teach-USA LLC. Written by Maria Gemma Hilotin. All Rights Reserved.
Unauthorized duplication or distribution of this material is prohibited.
Disclaimer: This resource is for educational purposes only. Results may vary depending on classroom context and implementation. This product is not affiliated with or endorsed by any school district.