What is the difference in the salary of different teachers?

Teachers: Some advice for a teacher wannabe?

• Hello, my name is Jenny and I need some advice. I really really want to be a teacher, and it's scary saying this because I've always only looked at careers that pay a lot. But I've been thinking seriously and I think teaching and making a difference in students' lives is what will make me truly happy. These are my questions... 1) Do you find teaching rewarding? Does it make you happy? 2) Is it a very stressful job? 3) It's no secret that teachers are the one of the most underpaid, underappreciated people in the world. How do you manage with the low salary? Would you say the low salary is worth it? 4) Aside from teaching I would also like to pursue writing and publish novels. Would teaching give me enough free time to write? Thank you in advance!

• Answer:

  1) Do you find teaching rewarding? Does it make you happy? Yes. I do find it rewarding and it does make me happy. It has to. That's why I decided to become a teacher. Now I honestly do have to say, I don't feel that way all the time, there are ups and downs. Which leads to question 2... 2) Is it a very stressful job? Very much so. There are a lot of demands on teachers because of the accountability for student achievement. Depending on your students, sometimes you really have to do a lot just to see them gain a little. That's part of teaching. 3) It's no secret that teachers are the one of the most underpaid, underappreciated people in the world. How do you manage with the low salary? Would you say the low salary is worth it? Go back to question 1. That has to be the reason any one would want to be a teacher. When things get though, refer to question 1. A lot of teachers leave the profession before their 5th year. They came in with all the right intentions, but just couldn't find its worth. The salary isn't what most people would say is fair for someone with a college degree, many with masters. You can make a living from it, but don't expect a luxurious life style. Salary isn't good, but it isn't bad either...just so-so ok. 4) Aside from teaching I would also like to pursue writing and publish novels. Would teaching give me enough free time to write? You will always have time to write. Teaching does take time, but don't let it consume you. Part of the reason why some teachers burn out is because they are too much involved in their work. Everyone needs time to themselves. If anything, being a teacher will give you plenty to write about! Every teacher has stories to tell...oh the darnest things kids say and do.