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Originally Posted by Lil Sis  If this question was asked of me say.. two to three years ago... I would have given a totally different answer. I used to be so proud of being a teacher that shapes the future.. and I do shape my students. They know they are important to me.
I have friends who retired in the past couple of years and they are doing fine, they went through the system when pay was solid and the carrot that was dangled was given at the correct times. Times were good and they are lucky... not us.
I know we all are having rough times with the recession.. I just am having a bit of a pity party right now. I am sorry if I sounded so down on teaching, but I will restate.. if it is what your heart wants and nothing else will do - go for it!!! I would not advise teaching as a one and only choice now. I like EllaMay's advise a lot, it is close to what I give my children and students 
It is funny because I am searching now for what I will do when I leave teaching in about 5 years. I also want to do something with dogs.  
I will be too young to totally retire and want something that make me smile  |
I am really sorry that you have been hurt by all of the negativity surrounding teachers, particularly with the recession. I can personally speak of the hurt when others are questioning your worth when it's something you truly believe in and love. I hate all of the testing, the emphasis on scores and grades, and how things are not as child centered. I am really fortunate to work in such a wonderful, unique district, but we are not immune to all of the challenges. I think all of this could easily have destroyed me because I love my work so much, but for me, it's the kids who keep drawing me back. When I close the door to my classroom, that's all that matters. You are making a difference that will last a lifetime for the students that you touch. Try to remember that and remember your true worth without listening to the negativity surrounding you.