WASHINGTON, D.C. — After more than four decades dedicated to education, First Lady Jill Biden has announced her retirement from teaching. The decision marks the end of a long and passionate career that she continued even while serving as Second Lady and First Lady of the United States.
During a virtual event with teachers from across the nation, she officially shared the news, reflecting warmly on her journey in the classroom.
“Sometimes it’s hard to walk away from a career you love,” Biden said. “Last Thursday, I taught my last class of the semester and my final class ever at Northern Virginia Community College. I will always love this profession.
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The First Lady expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve in education. She described teaching as an honor and thanked her colleagues for their unwavering dedication to students. Her remarks highlighted the profound impact educators have on shaping lives and strengthening communities.
Biden’s commitment to teaching is historic
She is the first First Lady to maintain a full-time, paid position outside the White House throughout her tenure. Her 40-year career began in 1976 and included teaching English, writing, and literacy courses at both high school and community college levels.
Even during the intense demands of national public life, she prioritized her role as an educator, often commuting to campus and grading papers late into the night. Her continued teaching served as a powerful example of the value she places on education and public service.
As she steps away from the classroom, Biden leaves behind a lasting legacy of inspiration for teachers and students alike. While she will no longer stand in front of a class, her influence on American education will continue through the many lives she has touched over her remarkable career.
