Career Teacher

So I received this memo prior to Christmas break informing me that I am eligible for what is called “Career Teacher” status for my school district. Along with this title comes a small, and I do mean small, amount of money each year. The memo is still lurking in my “inbox” on my desk. It has haunted me since its arrival. It is looking at me at this very moment while I write this post…I think it just made a face. Why do I find this disturbing you might ask? It would seem like it’s an honor to be recommended or offered this status. Perhaps. But let’s look at what this really means…

First of all, following this short, succinct memo is a trail of paperwork that could take you to the moon and back. In order to receive said money, I must fill out a mountain of forms AND provide documentation to prove that I do, in fact, meet each of the stipulations for “Career Teacher” such as sponsoring student clubs or activities, presenting at state conferences, etc. All of this for about $800 bucks a year. I wonder what that works out to be per hour after filling out the forms and copying my “proof” to be included, especially after taxes…Hmmm…

Then there is the bigger issue. Am I a “Career Teacher?” I find this question perplexing. While I do believe that teaching is a marvelous profession, I find that it lacks the nobility that it once held for me. The majority of my reasons for finding it “marvelous” are selfish. My schedule is the same as my children, ample time in the summer, a reasonably short workday, job security, health benefits, etc.

I find that I enjoy the planning and creating aspect of teaching far more than the actual implementation of the lessons. Conflicting as this may sound, it’s true. I excel in designing lessons, particularly those that incorporate the use of technology. However, when it comes to interacting in the classroom, hmmm…not so much. I am competent, and, I think, better than average, but I am tired of all of the bureaucracy that comes with teaching. (See previous post regarding ridiculous waste in education) I am tired of the student apathy, the paperwork, bad attitudes (primarily students), etc. This would be why I left the classroom for my current position. I am an instructional technology resource specialist, and I help teachers primarily. My interaction with students is more limited, and it is primarily kids who want/need my help so they are a little more respectful and courteous. While I love my school and I enjoy my job, I am not sure that I can or want to do it for the rest of my life. It is good for right now, but forever? Hmmm...

Am I a “Career Teacher?” I can’t say for sure that I am…maybe. But in the meantime, I guess that I’ll take the $800 bucks.