Being a teacher means I don't just have 2 children - I have a whole classroom full of them. Being a teacher means that I never stop thinking about them. Everywhere I go, something reminds me of someone. I rehash what I taught after every lesson. Shoot, I replay everything virtually the minute it comes out of my mouth. As I drive home or to school, I am constantly thinking about what can I do to drive my students, to raise their comprehension, to deepen their understanding, and to keep them excited about learning.
Being a teacher means that I work really long hours. Just because my contract says that I am here from 7:40 - 3:30 doesn't mean that is when I start and stop. I get there early to set up lessons. I stay late to grade papers, to create lessons, to create power points to keep my students engaged, to cut out materials, to prep stations, to make copies, to call parents, to help students who may need help after school or just a safe place to hang for an hour or two, to attend professional learning communities, to help out the PTO, to meet with colleagues, etc., and to finally eat my lunch.
And those summers that everyone complains about teachers getting? I preview the curriculum. I read up on professional books that will make my teaching better the next year. I am constantly searching for "things" for my classroom. When you are a teacher, you never really turn off your "teacher" button in your head, it will pop up here and there. For instance, I was on craigslist last night and came across a chair. My first thought, "Hey! That would be awesome for a reading area in my classroom." Or at a yard sale I am constantly on the search for books that can be in my classroom library. I found a set of 9 styrofoam balls at a yard sale and I was so excited that I had found the nine planets, just waiting to be painted. Oh, Let's not forget the professional development that every teacher is required to maintain. In TN we had to complete 18 hours every year of unscheduled (meaning off of contract time) inservice. Here in WI, you have to complete 6 credits in 5 years to renew your license. Most teachers do this in their "off" time AKA summers.
Sure, I play with my kids. I catch up with my husband. We visit family and friends. I read fiction books like they are going out of style. We go for bike rides in the mornings and hit the pool. I'm not a martyr nor do I want to be made out to be one. I enjoy my time off just as much as the next person. But I truly feel that I earn every second of it.
I LOVE being a teacher. Honestly, in high school, this was the last job I thought I would be doing. But here I am, happy as a clam. I have the best job in the world. I love my students, I love teaching, I love coming up with that lesson that brings the "aha" moment. I wouldn't trade this for anything.
Being a teacher, however, DOES NOT mean I want to discuss politics with you. Yes, I have an opinion. No, I do not want to debate it with you. Since I have moved to WI that is all people want to do.
"Oh, you teach?"
"Yes, I do."
"Oh, where do you teach?"
"I teach 5th grade at _____"
"So... if you don't mind me asking, what do you think of the Walker situation?"
"Um... I just moved here... but.... uh..."
Actually, I do mind. I'm just too nice to be rude and shut you down right away. Nope, I'll discuss curriculum, student's achievement, research on teaching methods (Yes, we teachers actually use research based techniques!), how much schooling I invested to become a teacher, or even the weather, but I do not want to discuss politics with people I just met. Don't assume I do.
Let's just say, I have my opinions, you have yours.
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Growing up with two teachers for parents, I fully understand how you never turn off that teacher side! Our road trips were VERY educational. :) Your kids and students are lucky to have you teaching them! It's dedicated people like you who make great teachers and make a difference in our children's lives. Just wanted to say, You Rock! Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post, Steph! I agree completely, having grown up with two teachers, one of whom spent a LOT of time toward the end of his career butting heads with the "powers that be". The politics can wear you down, I think! Your kids are lucky, though, having a teacher as dedicated and enthusiastic as you are...and one who knows when and how to separate the classroom from the politics.
ReplyDelete::applaud:: Thank you for such a thoughtful post about your much appreciated career! For the last 12 years, since my son started school, I have caught glimpses of the dedication and HEART that teachers have to their calling. Then last summer, I worked at The School Box (school supply store) and rang up $1000's of OUT OF POCKET expenditures. This was an even more poignant reminder of how much you guys go ABOVE AND BEYOND. I hope things are well in your new home and you have a great first year at the new school!
ReplyDeleteYou are an exceptional person Stephaine Baker! Which makes you an exceptional teacher; I can only hope my children will be lucky enough to have a teacher who is as dedicated as you are.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great work! :-)