Yup. Ok. We get two months off. I'm not writing it off, nor am I complaining. I think it's fantastic. However, just a few things to bear in mind for those who scoff at teachers across the board.
1. Technically speaking, we work 12 months just like everyone else. 10 months are spent working like a dog in the classroom, 2 months are spent working to forget everything that happened in those 12 months so we can actually return.
2. I would gladly trade my "10 month" job for a position in which I could get up and pee whenever necessary. Urinary infections get old and expensive. Don't be fooled- our healthcare is not what it used to be.
3. At no time during 7 am and 4 pm can I close my door, make a phone call, give a hug, say a curse word, listen to music, check my e-mail, smile without consequence, drink some coffee or SIT DOWN. That leather office chair must be nice.
4. I would welcome a 45 minute meeting with 5, obstinate adults who make rational decisions over 5, 45 minute classes with 25-plus irrational teenagers. At least adults'll bring you donuts and pretend that they are listening to what you have to say.
5. I am more concerned about the state of my classroom and am more behind if I take a sick day than I ever was before I ever needed a sick day.
6. Lastly, for those from the "teacher's teach because they weren't smart or ambitious enough to pursue what they really wanted"camp- we are present in school for 10 months, but still get paid a full year's salary. Please tell me, who's smarter again?
So, don't ask teachers if they're working during summer. Don't joke about all the time off they have. How lucky they are to have such an easy job. How it's the Best Job on Earth. If it was, then you'd be doing it too.
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