Quote:
Originally Posted by laylo
1. How/Why did you go into education?
1b. Did you get a masters? Before starting the job or during?
2. Do you plan to continue teaching or go on to administration, policy, or some other field?
3. What are the pros and cons of the grade level you teach?
4. What advice do you have for those considering this field?
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1) I have always wanted to be a teacher. For me it was giving back. I wanted (and still do) to teach high school because my teachers were so influential. I had teachers who went out of the way to help me. I teach 1st grade and I love it because I know my kids are learning.
1B) Yes, I have my masters. I got it via certification. I did an alternate route for certification. I got my MA in Elementary Ed with certification emphasis. So a two for one type of deal.
2) Yes, I plan to continue teaching.
3) Pros-working with the kids. I can see when they are learning and retaining the knowledge. Plus, at 6-7 years old, they love me. They put huge smiles on my face and I miss them when I haven't seen them for a while.
Cons-Again their age can be a con.
. They are still at the age where they throw tantrums when they don't get their ways. The other cons I have about teaching have nothing to do with the grade level, but about the practice in general (i.e. NCLB)
4) Man so much to list... but a couple...
A) Join your union. Your union is there to protect you. To fight for you. If your district, for some reason, doesn't have a union join your state union or the National Education Association.
B) Don't let your district walk all over you and your rights as a teacher. Fight back. Knowledge is power.
C) Talk to your coworkers. They are there for a reason. Befriend them. They have untapped knowledge you can use (especially for T-3 teachers (less than 3 years teaching)).
I have so much more advice, if anyone wants more information or advice please PM me.