4 answers
Jaylin
Student
Olathe, Kansas
1
Question
Asked
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Why is it that teachers get paid so little ?
I was wondering if teachers are so important and we need them to continue with our brain development and evolution why is it that we pay them so little ?
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
1060
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
Because the government has under funded education in the United States.
When it comes to funding other domestic, international and military programs, we are placing a higher value on them, and we are substantially behind other countries, who place a higher value on education and academic programs within their populations.
When it comes to funding other domestic, international and military programs, we are placing a higher value on them, and we are substantially behind other countries, who place a higher value on education and academic programs within their populations.
Tess Levin
Consultant
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Tess’s Answer
To add to the above, if you are passionate about teaching, remember there are a few options you can do to supplement/optimize for a higher salary, as well as additional points to consider.
While salary is unfortunately overall low for teachers, remember that with teaching you typically have:
1) Career security (there is a shortage of teachers and therefore you have strong security in your role)
2) in many school districts there are still strong benefits such as pensions, strong health insurance
Ways to supplement/add to salary:
1) during summer break, which is often ~2-3 months, you can nanny/babysit/tutor/work at a camp...other ways to make additional money
2) Various school districts and schools pay differently; if income is a concern, make sure to look at a variety of options in the area you will be teaching at (e.g. Public School vs. Charter School, Urban vs. Suburban, Private...etc)
While salary is unfortunately overall low for teachers, remember that with teaching you typically have:
1) Career security (there is a shortage of teachers and therefore you have strong security in your role)
2) in many school districts there are still strong benefits such as pensions, strong health insurance
Ways to supplement/add to salary:
1) during summer break, which is often ~2-3 months, you can nanny/babysit/tutor/work at a camp...other ways to make additional money
2) Various school districts and schools pay differently; if income is a concern, make sure to look at a variety of options in the area you will be teaching at (e.g. Public School vs. Charter School, Urban vs. Suburban, Private...etc)
Elizabeth (Betsy) Kvedar, CPTD®
Learning Consultant
75
Answers
Shelburne, New York
Updated
Elizabeth (Betsy)’s Answer
Jaylin,
Your question is incredibly insightful and it's one that doesn't have a straightforward answer. A great teacher has the power to transform a student's life, turning them into a precious asset for their community. However, there can be constraints on teacher salaries in certain school districts due to various factors.
My friends who chose teaching as their career were aware of these financial limitations. But their passion for education and their joy in interacting with students outweighed these constraints. This career provides them with a sense of profound purpose and immense gratification.
There are careers, like teaching and art, where the financial rewards may not be high. Yet, those who choose these paths often find immense satisfaction in the impact they make, such as nurturing students to reach their full potential. The joy they derive when others value their work can be immeasurable.
Are you contemplating a career in teaching?
Your question is incredibly insightful and it's one that doesn't have a straightforward answer. A great teacher has the power to transform a student's life, turning them into a precious asset for their community. However, there can be constraints on teacher salaries in certain school districts due to various factors.
My friends who chose teaching as their career were aware of these financial limitations. But their passion for education and their joy in interacting with students outweighed these constraints. This career provides them with a sense of profound purpose and immense gratification.
There are careers, like teaching and art, where the financial rewards may not be high. Yet, those who choose these paths often find immense satisfaction in the impact they make, such as nurturing students to reach their full potential. The joy they derive when others value their work can be immeasurable.
Are you contemplating a career in teaching?
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
520
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
It's a valid concern. The issue of teacher salaries is complex and varies depending on the region and education system. Several factors contribute to this situation, including budget constraints, government policies, and societal priorities. While teachers play a crucial role in shaping future generations, their compensation often doesn't reflect the full value of their work.
As a society, we need to recognize the significance of education and invest in it accordingly. By prioritizing education funding and advocating for better salaries for teachers, we can show our appreciation for their essential contributions to our brain development and the progress of society as a whole. Supporting initiatives that promote fair compensation for educators can make a positive impact on both the teaching profession and the quality of education our children receive.
As a society, we need to recognize the significance of education and invest in it accordingly. By prioritizing education funding and advocating for better salaries for teachers, we can show our appreciation for their essential contributions to our brain development and the progress of society as a whole. Supporting initiatives that promote fair compensation for educators can make a positive impact on both the teaching profession and the quality of education our children receive.