| BabyGirl Rosie | 05-17-2011 04:48 PM |
Quote:
Originally Posted by lisaly
(Post 3539510)
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.
|
I love my job and I am really glad that I teach. However, I agree with Lil Sis to some degree. Teachers don't seem to get the appreciation we deserve. Also, I believe we are the most underpaid professionals around. Now without teachers would you have doctors, lawyers, etc. Testing just, well for lack of better words, suck. But it is here and we have to deal with it. And Common Core will make even bigger challenges.
However, there is always that one student each year that reminds me of why I teach. The one student that I made a difference for. The one student that will remember me forever. That one student that makes you want to shout "Now that is why I teach!" Words can not explain the look on the face of a child that after years of struggling finally "get it". That is when you know that you made a difference. That student that says "Your my favorite teacher" or "thank you for caring about me". I can list the negatives forever. But I always like to think about the positives.
Teaching is tough. You will not sit behind a desk all day. You will be tired when you get home and still have a lesson to plan and papers to grade. Parent phone calls to make and heaven forbid the visit to the principal's office because you just are not doing enough to please the parent. Students will complain, not do their homework, and of course, they get "smarter" every year. But taking all this does not even come close to comparing how you will feel when you get that "one child" I was talking about.
I too am very lucky to work in a wonderful district. I have a wonderful boss and I work with the best group of teachers ever. I will hold my head high as I say that yes I am a teacher.
If you really want to teach it is in your heart. I don't think teaching is a career that you just pick. I truly believe teaching is a calling. | 