Isabelle
I want to teach math, but I have knee problems that need a consistent stream of money to stay okay. Advice?
I am good at math. I get As in AP math classes and tutor and do competition math for fun. But honestly, my biggest joy in math is my tutoring. I love to teach. Nothing fires me up like a kid that hates math because a bad math teacher failed them and convinced them they're awful at it. I hate that so many math teachers never take the time before they go into teaching to learn how to NOT understand, since so many math teachers were geniuses that always got it, and then they don't know how to explain something to someone that doesn't immediately get it. My biggest strengths as a tutor come from places I haven't understood, that I've had to work for hours on my own to finally get.
So, I want to be a math teacher! But I also have knee problems which will only get worse throughout my life. So I'm going to have to pay for surgeries and appointments and treatments and braces and lots of things that are really expensive. I don't want a life of luxury, but I know I'll have all these extra expenses and I don't think a high school teaching salary will cover that.
My current plan is to get a good math job for a while, save up some money and get some experience, and then get my teaching certification and go into teaching. Is that realistic? My parents both did the "high school to college to more college to working in the field to college professor," but can I do that and teach high school? And can I make enough money to support myself somehow in this?
#mathematics-education #math #mathematics #money-management
5 answers
Douglas Lemmo, P.E.
Douglas’s Answer
The fact that you are good at math and like to teach math is a big point in your favor. As you may know, math and science teachers are in big demand. But, I see you question a little differently than your ability to get a high school job teaching math. I see it as more of an insurance question. Sorry to hear about your knees, because teachers do spend a lot of time on their feet. My suggestion is, and this may be hard to do, is pick a high school in your area that you like and find out what kind of insurance coverage you would have as a teacher there. You may find out that insurance will pay for whatever treatment you need later in life after you have become a teacher, if your knees really do get worse and require attention. Or if you knees are already "not so good" right now, could you be considered disabled ? Have you spoken with you doctor concerning your becoming a math teacher and the possible issue of you knees limiting you later in life? If you have your heart set on being a math teacher, my advice is go for it. I have a feeling that there are accomodations that would be made for a good math teacher. Also, if after awhile teaching, you find that you can't do it any longer, there are other professions that a math major /teacher could work in (business, insurance, engineering) where you would sit at a desk.
I hope this helps.
Aya Sirriyeh
Aya’s Answer
Hilda De Bara Kulkarni
Hilda’s Answer
Sekharbabu Haridasula
Sekharbabu’s Answer
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Financial Stability and Career Options
Isabelle, it’s commendable that you have a passion for teaching math and want to pursue a career in education despite your knee problems. It’s important to consider your financial stability while pursuing your passion. Here are some potential career options and financial strategies to consider:
1. Teaching Math in a Traditional School Setting You can pursue a career as a math teacher in a traditional school setting. While this may provide a consistent stream of income, it’s important to research the salary and benefits offered by schools in your area. Public schools often have structured salary scales, and you may also have access to benefits such as health insurance.
2. Online Tutoring Consider exploring opportunities for online tutoring. Platforms such as Khan Academy, Chegg Tutors, and Tutor.com offer opportunities for individuals to tutor students remotely. Online tutoring can provide flexibility and may allow you to continue teaching math while managing your knee problems.
3. Private Tutoring In addition to traditional teaching, you can offer private tutoring services. Many students and parents seek private tutors for additional support in math. You can set your own rates and schedule, providing some control over your income stream.
4. Financial Planning Given the potential medical expenses related to your knee problems, it’s essential to create a financial plan. Consider consulting with a financial advisor who can help you develop a strategy to manage your expenses while maintaining financial stability.
5. Disability Accommodations If your knee problems significantly impact your ability to work, it may be worth exploring disability accommodations or support programs that could provide financial assistance.
6. Pursuing Advanced Degrees Consider pursuing advanced degrees in mathematics or education, which could open up opportunities for higher-paying positions in academia or educational leadership roles.
Conclusion While pursuing a career in math education, it’s crucial to consider both your passion for teaching and the practical aspects of managing your knee problems and associated medical expenses. Exploring various career options, creating a financial plan, and seeking professional advice can help you achieve both your professional and personal goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) The BLS provides comprehensive data on occupational outlooks, including information on the job outlook, median pay, and educational requirements for various professions, including teaching.
2. National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) The NCTM offers resources and information related to math education, including insights into different career paths within the field of mathematics education.
3. Financial Advisor or Planner Consulting with a certified financial advisor or planner can provide personalized guidance on managing finances while dealing with medical expenses and planning for long-term financial stability.
GOD BLESS,
James Constantine.