Like you mean what I learned today (I teach high school)? I feel attacked! I joke around with my students that I am in my 24th year of high school. I tell them I have been institutionalized….I no longer understand the walls outside of the high school. Some days it feels as though this is true (response to WordPress daily writing prompt).

I have learned an incredible amount in 24 years of high school. I learned how to make websites as a teacher in high school as a matter of fact on Google Sites. I learned how to become a proficient leader and public speaker. I learned volumes about all types of history: World History, U.S History, U.S. Government and Economics the best way you can learn, teaching! I owe all of this experience for becoming the prolific lifelong learner I am today!

I learned how to run a business, how to market things in a rudimentary way, and how to be a smart financial person. I learned about the stock market, the crypto market, and a whole host of wonderful graphs to help analyze any decision.

As a student, I had some amazing teachers in high school who inspired me to think I could pull this teaching thing off, or pretty much anything for that matter. I learned what love was, what true friendship was, and how to serve my community.

I guess I never made it to the “top” of the corporate ladder and probably never will, but I would not trade everything I have learned for any amount of money, nor the memories of the relationships that I have formed.

Pros And Cons of Teaching

I interviewed Chat GPT for a list of pros and cons of teaching, here is what it came up with.

Teaching is a noble profession, often revered for its ability to shape young minds and inspire future generations. Yet, like any career path, it comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of teaching, exploring the multifaceted nature of this vital role.

Pros of Teaching:

1. Making a Difference: One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is the opportunity to make a positive impact on students’ lives. Whether it’s helping a struggling student grasp a difficult concept or witnessing a student’s personal growth and development, the sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing you’ve made a difference can be unparalleled.
2. Building Relationships: Teachers have the unique privilege of forming meaningful connections with their students. These relationships extend beyond the classroom, often lasting a lifetime. The bonds forged between teachers and students can provide support, guidance, and encouragement long after the academic year has ended.
3. Intellectual Stimulation: Teaching is a profession that demands continual learning and growth. Educators have the chance to delve into their subject matter deeply, exploring new ideas and concepts alongside their students. The intellectual stimulation that comes from teaching can be invigorating, keeping educators engaged and passionate about their work.
4. Creativity and Innovation: Teachers are creative problem-solvers, constantly adapting their teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of their students. From designing engaging lesson plans to incorporating technology into the classroom, educators have the freedom to innovate and experiment, keeping their teaching practice fresh and dynamic.
5. Job Security and Benefits: Teaching is often considered a stable career path, with opportunities for job security and benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. For those passionate about education, the stability and security of a teaching position can provide peace of mind.

Cons of Teaching:

1. Workload and Stress: Teaching can be a demanding profession, requiring long hours both inside and outside the classroom. From lesson planning and grading to attending meetings and extracurricular activities, educators often juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously, leading to stress and burnout.
2. Limited Resources: Many teachers face challenges due to limited resources, including outdated textbooks, insufficient classroom supplies, and overcrowded classrooms. The lack of resources can hinder educators’ ability to provide quality instruction and support to their students, leading to frustration and disillusionment.
3. Low Pay: Despite the importance of their role, teachers are often undervalued and underpaid compared to other professions requiring similar levels of education and experience. The low salary can make it difficult for educators to make ends meet and may deter talented individuals from pursuing a career in teaching.
4. Lack of Autonomy: Teachers often have limited autonomy in decision-making, particularly regarding curriculum, assessment, and classroom management. External mandates and standardized testing requirements may dictate the pace and content of instruction, leaving educators feeling constrained and disempowered.
5. Emotional Toll: Teaching can be emotionally taxing, requiring educators to navigate complex issues such as student behavior problems, family crises, and societal challenges. The emotional investment required to support students’ social, emotional, and academic needs can take a toll on teachers’ well-being and mental health.

Commentary

I would have to agree with Chat GPT on this one. Teaching is a giant rollercoaster ride. The ups and downs are numerous and are all going on simultaneously in the minds of each student. I do enjoy the creative aspects of teaching immensely, however, so that is a big plus for me. When all is well, it seems as though one is barely working, but the storm clouds can gather quickly and sometimes without warning. The most important thing is to keep the kids on your “side”. Students will work themselves to the peak of their abilities if they know you “have their back” and are genuinely giving your best, with the intention of having them reach their best.

The emotional toll of teaching can be soul crushing at times. I had a student end her life last year and it was devastating. The stress can be overwhelming dealing with so many different emotions each day, then the parents, and the administration on top of that, not to mention the litigious nature of society these days. Our principal has been sued twice this year and he is a really good principal, doing a lot of extra things for the community, it is really sad.

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