I just read Tom Bloch's book Stand for the Best. He tells the story of why he left his CEO job at H&R Block to teach middle school math in the inner city. Tom felt that his life was missing something and that helping struggling students who didn't have the luck he had would fill that void. Thirteen years later, it turns out he was right.
Not all teachers gave up a million-dollar salary to do what they do, but all teachers certainly share that altruistic nature. You get into this career knowing you will never hit it rich, knowing how all encompassing it is, knowing that people assume you leave at 3 and enjoy leisurely summer vacations... so why do it?
I'm putting the question out to you. Why did you become a teacher? Share your reason or personal story in the comments section.
PS Tom's book is much more than a feel-good story. He describes his struggles and failures as a teacher and founder of a charter school, as well as the ultimate successes. He debates major issues and policies in education like charter schools, merit pay, and character education. It was really thought-provoking. If you're interested, check it out.
4 comments:
I teach literature classes mostly because no one ever wants to talk about literature outside of school... and I love when people are better writers at the end of my class than they were on day 1.
Seeing that improvement is definitely rewarding.
I became a teacher for many reasons. These are in no order. First to have summers off. Second to work with children. They make you laugh when you least expect it. Third, I love the ability to teach someone something that they have not learned before.I love looking back to see the progress the children have made.
Bookworm, thanks for sharing. I do love those kids, but you're right, summers come first.
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