OK, I've been reading, and finally HAD to weigh in. Any of you who think teaching is a "piece of cake dream job" is MORE than welcome to come spend a week in my classroom. FYI, I started my professional life in the private sector (marketing) and switched to teaching in my thirties. I have been teaching now for 12 years (oops - I gave my age away!
), have NEVER had a summer off (can you say "mandatory CEU's" - that I, not the district, have to pay for
) and of course, summer school teaching so I could make ends meet (single mom, 2 sons).
I chose this profession as a calling - the salary was NOT attractive, compared to what I could have made in the private sector. Most of my students have probation officers, have problems at home, are behind in their schoolwork, etc. etc. I spend hours every week coming up with new ideas and curriculum (much of it purchased out of my pocket) to keep my students (junior high) engaged and in school. Any one who thinks this is a cush job, email me and you can come volunteer in my classroom to find out for yourself!!!
All this being said, I wouldn't go back to private sector work - I do love what I do. The pension (to which I contribute over HALF, directly out of my pay, whether I want it or not) will make up for the lack of salary now, but WE DO NOT GET PAID RETIREMENT MEDICAL BENNIES. Also, I contribute to my 403B because I know the pension won't be enough. Yes, some teachers who are retiring now have better benefits - they were grandfathered in. Times have changed - so, before you all weigh in with your opinions, check the current facts!!! 'Nuff said