Since September, I have arrived at work between 6AM and 6:30AM when my day officially starts at 7:10. I have never left at 3:10 when my day is officially over. It is more likely that I leave around 5:30 or 6:00. I dont teach math, but two weeks ago a student with pressing family issues was crying because she wasnt doing well in her math class. She needed a text book, but they are not handed out in class nor are they available to take home. I had to secretly borrow one so she could keep up. I havent had a single lunch without students being present. I have students trying to get into college who need my help EVERY day after school - and occasionally on weekends - to prepare for college applications and auditions. I do not get a stipend for the after school work I do. I have not taken a sick day in the last three years because I was sick. I took them to get work done for work. I hoard office supplies because I dont know when I will be able to afford more. I built my own desk because I am routinely asked to leave my classroom to make room for other activities and I cant have a permanent one. I dont have a home printer because I needed to donate mine to my classroom AND supply my own ink for it as I print and copy items for my students. Contrary to what many think, we do not get paid for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring or Summer breaks. Our abilities as experts in our fields are questioned daily. And yet, I love my job. I love my students. I am lucky to have a administrators who support me the best they can. I am good at what I do. I never wake up and wish I didnt have to go to work (although I honestly wish it started at 10AM). I never even really think about the amount of money I am paid except when I am buying supplies. My real complaint is this: If you want to reform/complain/blame educators, come spend a year in the classroom. How bout them Rotten Apples?
Posted on: Sun, 16 Nov 2014 15:54:57 +0000
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