Should I teach?

Question

I'm thinking of being a high school Chemistry teacher and people keep telling me no that being a teacher isn't worth the money

Answer 1

Chels, I'm married into a family of public school teachers, and the job may have it's perks, but it is not an easy job.

One person explained it to me like this: teaching is like public performing for several hours a day. It's not an easy job to do.

Yes, the money is not great, but most teachers are in unions where they can earn more money each year. Besides, how many other jobs offer 13 weeks off a year? Many teachers will also decide to take on a summer job to supplement their income.

But one thing to consider is No child left Behind and their requirements for teacher accountability. Make sure that you understand the ramifications of that act on a teaching career.

Good luck in your decision.

We definitely need more teachers that are passionate about developing creative minds and chemistry is a great profession!

Answer 2

Research other areas to use your skills - like being an industrial chemist for a medical company first. If you're sure you couldn't do better than teach - make sure you can teach people who want to learn. I would advise teaching adullts or little children. Adolescents often - too often have their own axe to grind. "Discipline" or behaviour management is a HUGE issue. I don't know where you are thinking of teaching but check out the pay scales and think carefully. It is a very stressful occupation, and I believe not highly respected in the community. A good teacher spends a mountain of time marking, preparing courses, lessons and keeping up with technological developments. There are few benefits - you don't get a car, phone, meals, trips away or huge tax breaks like you can in other forms of employment. And of course cheap travel is out as you are traveling when the vacations are on. I became a teacher-librarian. It is a good way of being a teacher in a high school without having to be closeted away with a group of teens who don't all want to be there. Maybe you'd have more fun working in the perfume industry, or a plastics development company? Everything is made from chemicals. If I were you I'd explore every option - think laterally - there are more fun jobs than teaching in a high school in th 21st century. Enjoy your choice.

Answer 3

Science teachers are in high demand, and if you get a master's degree and/or national certification, you will be paid more than decently. Unless you have outrageous student loan and/or other debt, a teaching check is really quite decent.

It's true that there is a great deal of stress, and it is not exactly a job you can leave at the office--you do often have to take it home with you. It is up to you to consider if you love your subject and young people enough to deal with that. The money won't be the problem.

Also do be aware that although science teachers are in high demand, it is likely you will be asked to teach other things besides chemistry, such as biology, physics, or earth science, at some point. Trust me, after a while you will be glad for the change though.

Answer 4

Searcher makes a lot of great points. I would advise that you call a local high school and ask to spend a day or more with a Chemistry teacher. Or, if you're in high school, meet with a Chemistry teacher to really find out their day to day responsibilities. I am a teacher right now (in my 6th year) and have really considered making this my last year because I really don't have time for anything BUT teaching. It is extremely time consuming and stressful, but SO rewarding. It is tough to decide whether it is worth it or not most of the time.

Answer 5

As most teachers say, Teaching is really not for the money. But you get paid a decent amount. Most people say that teachers are underpaid because of the extra stuff we do (and a lot of it out of school). However the more years you teach, the higher your salary becomes (not to mention if you have graduate hours or a masters degree).

Answer 6

I think what they were telling you is that there's no money in it. Not worth the money would imply that you actually made some money, and the high school teachers I know make next to nothing.

Answer 7

Monty Roberts is quoted as quoting one of his teachers

quote
What I will always remember about her is her statement that there is no such thing as teaching-only learning. She believed that no teacher could ever teach anyone anything. Her task as a teacher was to create an environment in which the student can learn. Knowledge...is not to be forced on anyone. The brain has to be receptive, malleable, and more important, hungry for that knowledge.

unquote
So, why do you want to be a teacher? Is it to save people? You can't ever do that...you can't force kids to learn and you can't force them to be thankful for the opportunity. Is it to be in control of their learning? There is no glory in that. Is it because you LOVE chemistry and want to share that love with others? Then be willing to be frustrated when not everyone shares that love.

I think being a teacher is a wonderful calling, if you're willing to compromise. Be willing to learn outside of your classrooms in college, read John Holt and try to find alternative ways of teaching. i just spent two years in teaching classes that were completely contrary to all my experience in raising and teaching my own children.

Answer 8

I had a friend who was a teacher and it was not her passion. It made her very miserable everyday. She did get paid very well for someone just coming out of college. If teaching is your passion then don't think about the money, it is your choice. It also depends on what area in the country your teaching. My friend taught in one of the worst schools in nyc. Not nice. But if you go to a good school, and it's your passion then go for it.....but make sure it's where you want to be.

Answer 9

Are you thinking of teaching for the money? Are you willing to participate in an activity that is worth the money? And if so is that what you want? And is what others say worth the money? I have found no money worth the effort of teaching where others benefit in learning and applying that knowledge in reality.

Answer 10

People don't go on teaching for the sake of money only, it is more of a personal conviction. A conviction that is rooted deeply in one's commitment to transform lives, culture and society. Teaching is the greatest call , yet it is undermined. I strongly encourage you not to let money be your driven force and people preventing you from changing people's lives and achieving your objective.