Pros & Cons of elementary teaching in 2017

[GiveMeCoffee]

Originally Posted by LifeonLongIsland

Tenure = the right to due process. That is all. Many private sector jobs have an equivalent system set up under a different name.

Teaching is a rewarding profession if it is what you truly want to do.

However, under the current climate, it is a profession under attack. Most of the public is misinformed about what you do. Don't expect anyone to pat you on the back. Public sector "benefits" are under attack. Don't do it for the "benefits" as who knows how long they'll be around. Do it because you love teaching.

If it is your passion, do it. I am a teacher and I can say it is the most rewarding and stressful thing I've ever done. That said, I have no regrets. Feel free to PM with any specific questions.

This, exactly.

Also, job openings are few and far between for Elem Ed. (Even in the city. So the whole, "I'll go work in NYC until I get a job on LI" plan might not work out).

[Coney]

Originally Posted by lauradee

I have wanted to be a teacher since i was in kindergarten. Unfortunately teaching isnt all it seems as a kid. I know all teachers say they arent in it for the money, but that is important to me. I hear teachers work extra hours with no pay for it. And i can only imagine the stress of trying to get 30 kids to pass standard tests.

Can any teachers please send some advice.

Be open to relocating to a different part of the US where there are teacher shortages. Just because you live in NY now doesn't mean you have to stay here.

[Quick Commenter]

Originally Posted by GiveMeCoffee

This, exactly.

Also, job openings are few and far between for Elem Ed. (Even in the city. So the whole, "I'll go work in NYC until I get a job on LI" plan might not work out).

Exactly.

Things have changed in many ways in the LI/NYS/NYC teaching world the last 40 years or so.