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Will teaching pay off?

I have wanted to be an elementary school teacher for a long time. Is this actually a good job?

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Olivia’s Answer

I think this depends on how you define "pay off". If you are looking for a financially lucrative career, the answer is likely no. Coming from a family of elementary school teachers, I can tell you that it "pays off" emotionally every time they see one of their former students in town and hear how that student is progressing in life. Teachers are highly undervalued and it's commendable that you want to join the profession. If you are looking to stay within the realm of elementary education but are looking for something more financially stable, I would recommend looking into EdTech roles. These roles are designed to facilitate education through the use of technology. Although you likely won't be in the classroom with students if you go down that path, you will still be making a difference in a young person's life.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Bella
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Debra’s Answer

I started out absolutely loving my career choice. Working with kids is always rewarding in itself. The problem I saw through my 25 years was the pressure put on schools to have performance scores that were unrealistic. It started in kindergarten where kids weren't learning socialization skills and how to share, but were pushed to having to write complete sentences, which many weren't cognitively ready for. That is just an example but I believe a general representation of how the school system fails the needs of our children, early on. Boys especially would become frustrated, showing defiance and a negative attitude toward education. I personally left due to poor administration and the unethical practices that went on behind the scenes, to achieve high scores on paper. I currently teach art and chess to elementary students and opened my own art gallery. I make much less money than I did teaching, but I am my own boss, still doing w hat I love, but without the bureaucratic bs. I am sure it increased my lifespan.. if I could do it over again, I would still be a teacher. Depending on the state and school district, it could be your chance to change the world.
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Diane’s Answer

I wanted to be a teacher when I was a kid. When I became an adult, I changed my mind. I do teach but not as a professional. I teach my grandchildren, godchildren and others willing to learn. I did teach as a corporate trainer for a few years and I enjoyed it. I had to travel every weekend and I learned alot as well.
Thank you comment icon Your advice was so helpful! Bella
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