Is teaching worth the sacrifice?

[DancingNancie81]

I got my associates in animation and that didn't exactly pan out. My fallback was to go into teaching art, but that's another 4 years of college and expense, so now i've settled on elementary education, but i hear so many negative things! Lousy pay, threat of strikes, dangerous students, bad parents, office politics, and so many quitting within the first few years. And after being burned with one useless degree and a looming student loan debt, i'm wary to take on another one. I'd really like someone with experience to weigh in. Thank you in advance for your help!

[eastacademic]

try talking to a veteran teacher and ask them what they like about their career. You will hear an earful. You cannot become a teacher with a negative attitude. We are in the business of helping students achieve their dreams and goals - negativity works against you here. Half of new teachers leave the profession within five years because they underestimate the pressures, stress and rigors of the job. So here are just some quick thoughts about your list from a veteran of 16 years:

lousy pay: we do get paid 8-15 percent below careers with like educational requirements. We pay for school supplies and required education out of our own pocket. They pay certainly is not high enough to attract enough candidates in math, science and special education. *but* pay increases the longer you are in the profession, and most teachers can afford to live and own a home in their school's community. There are 4 million of us who work with what we are given.

strikes: There has not been a strike in my area since the 80's.

office politics: you do not need to be a part of this. What job does not have this?

dangerous students: I have not in 16 years had a student I'd call dangerous. I teach in Los Angeles. Ive had disrespectful, angry, confused, and a myriad other negatives - but dangerous no. They are kids. Most at my level are still trying to figure out who they are. 99 percent of my students and parents are wonderful to be around. The thing about teaching is that *you* control your environment. The teachers that display negativity and hostility towards the kids are the ones that have the most trouble with student behavior. You set your classroom up so that its a safe, friendly atmosphere, you get the same.

The best way I can think of to help you with your choice is suggest that you talk to people who truly love the profession. See what they all have in common - I think you'll find that they each are optimists.