Good morning to all....
I AM APOLOGIZING FOR COMING ACROSS AS BEING REALLY PISSED. Maybe I was....but when going back today and rereading what I wrote I know that I had a lot of emotions going through me at the time. If I took the time to reread the previous posts, I'd prob. have my blood boiling again. BUT I'M NOT GOING TO DO THAT.

I want to apologize for coming across so ANGRY!!! I am not usually like that, but this topic is pretty personal to me. I love what I do, and for whom I'm doing it for, and for no other reason. I'm leaving it at that....

When I read this post I feel like the blame for kids not learning is placed upon us teachers, and I know there are some pretty bad teachers out there. So, I am just going to mind my own business and continue to do the best job I can, and encourage those teachers around to do the same. I'm in it for the kids, and when that changes I WILL RETIRE!!!! Sorry for being so HOT HEADED!!!!

I glanced through the beginning, middle and end of this. Forgive me for not thoroughly investigating the thread before posting. I just must say, I agree with you, Rob. The salary is what it is - and teachers who teach because it is in their heart do not have issues with this.


The issues stem from, I believe, others complaining about what teachers do and do not do. Overall, I believe there is a misunderstanding about a teacher's "job". I don't just teach a subject (geometry and Algebra)...I teach kids how to respect themselves and others, I teach kids that they CAN do more than they imagined, I teach kids to complete a task so they can have pride in themselves for a job well done.

I teach "gang-bangers" what lies ahead of them if they continue the path they've begun. I teach young ladies that they do not have to "prostitute" themselves for the affection of a man. Well, I don't need to go on.

The point is, if teachers COULD teach a "subject" and parents DID have a vested interest in their children, the "job" would be more manageable. (I am not insinuating that this is the case for "most" kids/parents - I just happen to work with a quite needy bunch)

No, I am NOT complaining - I love that I am able to reach some kids who don't have anyone else who gives a lick about them. I HAVE had other careers - far more lucrative and less stressful - but I choose to be here for now and do the best job I know how.

*stepping off my soapbox*