why don't teachers like teaching anymore/ leaving teaching ?
I am 16 and plan on becoming a teacher but I'm having second thoughts. I always wanted to become a teacher and I didn't really care about the pay yeah its not the best but If I like the job then that's all that matters but everywhere I go I see negative things about teaching and people saying that they regret becoming a teacher. so if you are a teacher please be honest tell me if its as bad as they say it is and disprove it because I am out of options and I wouldn't know what else to do.
9 answers
John’s Answer
I also used to be a teacher. I left for better pay. My partner is a principal, so I have a unique perspective from multiple angles of the school system. Teaching can be a very rewarding career, but there are stresses that come with it for sure.
Students are almost never the problem. Parents, other teachers, administration, district support, community involvement, lack of funding, and extracurricular expectations can all contribute to the stress of teaching. If you want to make a career of being a teacher, I think the trick might be to find an environment where you can mitigate as many of those stresses as possible. Seek out schools with lots of community engagement and parent collaboration. Look at environmental ratings to understand how happy teachers are at potential schools and how supportive their administrative teams are. Find high-performing districts with good test scores. While teaching positions with the perfect environment may help reduce the stress of teaching, they are also the most sought after and difficult to get. Additionally, it's often the schools where the conditions are not ideal for teachers that need good teachers the most. So, you'll have to trade off your passion for teaching with some amount of these stressors.
Keep in mind that you can increase your pay with specialty degrees or certifications. STEM, Special Ed, and sometimes Gifted certifications are in demand and will help your go where you'd like. You might also consider what extracurricular activities or clubs you might enjoy that you could get involved with, either to secure side income or for additional job security. Also, keep in mind that you'll get 2 months off with full pay every summer. That's the main perk of teaching that makes it worth while.
Hope this helps! Best,
-John
Garima Lajras
Garima’s Answer
Good question! Honestly I'm not a teacher, but I’ve done some tutoring for young kids, and I really enjoyed it. I think teaching is such a meaningful and rewarding career, but like any job, it has its challenges. A lot of the negativity you hear might come from things like long hours, high workloads, or lack of resources in some schools, which can make it tough for teachers.
These days, teaching can feel overwhelming because of issues like low pay, excessive administrative work, large class sizes, and sometimes a lack of respect for the profession. Many teachers feel burned out because they’re expected to do so much with so little support. This doesn’t mean teaching isn’t worth it it just shows how much the system needs improvement.
That said, many people love teaching because of the difference they make in students’ lives. If you’re passionate about it and willing to adapt, it can be incredibly fulfilling. It’s important to talk to current teachers you know, research what teaching looks like in different environments. Don’t let the negativity discourage you it’s your passion, and that’s what really matters.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck!
Fred’s Answer
Let me be clear...I LOVED teaching. There are times where you can almost literally see the lightbulb going on over a students head. All the sudden, they "get" what you are teaching. It is an amazing feeling (I taught 7/8th grade math).
Now, BEING A TEACHER sucked, for many reasons. Lack of parent involvement. Student being assigned to be in school as their probation. Lack of funding for supplies or books. The politics with the administration and the district. The stress i put on myself.
After considering many of these factors and much more, I realized teaching was not for me after all.
Marylou’s Answer
Dr’s Answer
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Why Teachers Leave (Beyond the Obvious)
Here’s a deeper dive into the real reasons some teachers hit the exit button, leaving us all wondering if they ever considered staying:
1. The “Pay Doesn't Stretch” Problem
Teachers don't become rich doing this—unless we’re counting in life-changing moments. So, if you're expecting to roll in dough like a Wall Street exec, you might be disappointed. But hey, you’ll be rolling in the smiles of your students, which is pretty sweet too. 😄
2. The Bureaucratic Jungle
Picture this: Teachers, armed with nothing but a stack of forms, having to navigate the labyrinth of rules, tests, and paperwork. Sometimes it's like trying to get through a haunted house blindfolded while solving a Rubik's cube. Some teachers just don’t have the energy to survive this paperwork apocalypse anymore. 🏰📑
3. “Is This the Real Life or Just a Fantasy?”
The real struggle isn’t the kids (well, not all the time), it’s the stress. Burnout happens when teachers feel like they're juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle—without a helmet. When they feel unsupported by administration or overwhelmed by the needs of their class, the burnout hits harder than a bad Wi-Fi connection in the middle of a Zoom lesson. 🔥🔥
4. Not All Heroes Wear Capes, But Some Do (and Some Don't)
Some teachers show up and are absolutely ready to change lives—others… well, let’s just say they’re there for the paycheck and maybe a few gossip sessions in the teacher’s lounge. The passion? Gone. And when that happens, it’s time for them to leave. 🙄👋
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But Don’t Worry, Ana! You Got This!
Now let me tell you about my personal teaching odyssey:
When I first started teaching primary school, whoa, it was a jungle. The first three days were an emotional rollercoaster. I cried! (Yes, I cried—because I thought I was totally messing up and ruining their futures with my "bad teaching" skills. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t that bad.)
But here’s the twist: I dug deep, threw in some fun activities to match the topics, and guess what? By day six, I was the teacher everyone talked about. I wasn’t just the “tutor” anymore; I was the friend, the mentor, and yes, even the person higher graders came to open up to. 🙌🌟
Pro Tip: When you’re genuine and care about your students, they can feel it. That’s your secret weapon to win their hearts (and their attention).
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The Real Deal—Why Some Teachers Don’t Stick Around
I gotta be real with you: Not all teachers are all-in. I did some “research” (basically hanging around, watching how the pros do it), and I noticed a trend: Some teachers weren’t even trying. Their methods were as exciting as watching paint dry, and the students felt it. No wonder they’re out the door as soon as the bell rings.
So, here’s why they bail:
Lack of Passion: When you’re just there for the paycheck, you’re probably not going to crack that teaching code. Kids notice when you’re phoning it in.
No Support: Some teachers feel like they’re left to sink or swim with zero backup from the administration. They’re drowning in classroom management and dealing with a mountain of paperwork. Nope, nope, nope. 😱
The Struggles Are Real: If you’re not feeling inspired, it’s hard to keep pushing through tough days. So some teachers opt out when they feel they’ve hit a wall.
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But YOU? You’re a Super Teacher in Training!
If you’ve got the passion (and the patience), you can totally rock this! The fact that you're asking these questions already shows you’ve got the heart of a teacher. You want to make a difference, and that’s the first step.
And trust me, you won’t just be another teacher— you’ll be the teacher students remember. So when you’re feeling exhausted, just think of those moments when your students light up because you helped them get it, or when they run up to you in the hallway to say, "Hey, you’re the best!"
Teaching is a marathon, not a sprint. Take breaks when you need them, celebrate the small victories, and don't forget to laugh at the chaos. And hey, when you become the "cool teacher" that everyone remembers forever, you'll know it was all worth it.
So Ana, go ahead—teach the world your magic! ✨ You got this. You’re going to be the kind of teacher that makes even the "Karens" from PTA want to say, “You’re the best thing that ever happened to my kid!” Go forth and be awesome! 🌟
Gloria’s Answer
You have gotten a lot of advice but I wanted to offer a few thoughts of my own.
It can be difficult to be a teacher, especially when the students do not want to be in class. You will need to consider WHO you want to teach and WHAT you want to teach as a part of becoming a teacher. I have only taught adults and that comes with its own challenges. Some think that they know more than you and disrespect what you bring to the classroom. Sometimes what I have taught is boring to me and makes teaching a bit harder to do. (And believe me, the students know when you don't like what you are teaching.) So I would recommend figuring out what you would be passionate about teaching. For example, my brother was a Government and Political Science teacher in a high school setting. He was passionate about what he taught, so much so that he still closely studies government, American history and political issues even as a school administrator. I know some teachers who will only teach kids under the age of 10 for the variety of topics they get to cover. I know some people who just teach music. I know someone who was a nurse who now teaches people how to be a nurse at the college level. I am a great believer that teaching something that interests you is important to staying a teacher for a long time.
With passion, you still need to understand the practice of being a teacher. You have a lot of work beyond the classroom - getting ready to teach and sometimes creating everything around what you teach (like course plans, tests, and grading). Teaching is often an in-person profession where you are standing all day. So maybe consider if you would prefer to teach remotely. Depending on where you teach, teaching is not year around so would you need to do work in the summer? Or like some people I know, do they love having the summers off to travel or spend time with their children? Those are decisions that you are going to need to make for yourself.
As to not knowing what you would do if you were not a teacher, teachers have very powerful skills that are transferable to other jobs. Public speaking is helpful with jobs in communication. Teachers normally have good written communication skills which means that you can turn that talent towards marketing or writing books. You should think about some of your natural talents - is that art? Is that listening well? Are you good at research? There are many teaching skills that make teachers good for other jobs. I know some teachers leave teaching to do research and analysis for government organizations like the FBI. Teaching can be a foundation of an unexpected career trajectory for you.
Gloria
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Understanding Teacher Attrition and Job Satisfaction
1. Overview of Teacher Attrition
Teacher attrition refers to the phenomenon where teachers leave the profession before retirement age. This issue has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the United States, where many educators express dissatisfaction with their jobs. Various studies indicate that approximately 40-50% of new teachers leave the profession within their first five years. The reasons for this high turnover rate are multifaceted and can be categorized into several key areas.
2. Factors Contributing to Teacher Dissatisfaction
a. Workload and Stress: One of the primary reasons teachers cite for leaving the profession is the overwhelming workload. Teachers often work long hours, including evenings and weekends, to prepare lessons, grade assignments, and manage classroom behavior. The stress associated with these responsibilities can lead to burnout.
b. Compensation Issues: While you mentioned that pay is not a primary concern for you, it is essential to recognize that many teachers feel undercompensated relative to their workload and educational qualifications. According to the National Education Association (NEA), teacher salaries have not kept pace with inflation or cost of living increases in many areas, leading to financial strain.
c. Lack of Support: Many teachers report feeling unsupported by administration and policymakers. This lack of support can manifest in inadequate resources for classrooms, insufficient professional development opportunities, and limited input on curriculum decisions.
d. Classroom Management Challenges: Managing a classroom effectively requires skill and experience, but many new teachers find themselves overwhelmed by behavioral issues or lack of student engagement. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and frustration.
e. Policy Changes and Accountability Measures: Frequent changes in educational policy, standardized testing requirements, and accountability measures can create an unstable work environment for teachers. Many educators feel that these policies do not accurately reflect student learning or teacher effectiveness.
3. Positive Aspects of Teaching
Despite these challenges, there are numerous positive aspects associated with a career in teaching:
a. Impact on Students: Many teachers find great fulfillment in shaping young minds and making a difference in students’ lives. The opportunity to inspire future generations is often cited as a motivating factor for entering the profession.
b. Community Engagement: Teaching allows individuals to engage deeply with their communities through school events, parent-teacher associations, and local initiatives.
c. Lifelong Learning: Educators often enjoy continuous learning through professional development opportunities and interactions with students who bring fresh perspectives.
d. Job Security (in some regions): While job security can vary based on location and district funding, many public school positions offer stability compared to other professions.
4. Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
As you consider your future career as a teacher, it’s crucial to weigh both the challenges and rewards associated with this profession carefully. Engaging with current educators about their experiences can provide valuable insights into what you might expect if you pursue this path.
Ultimately, while there are valid concerns regarding job satisfaction among teachers today, many still find joy and purpose in their work despite the obstacles they face.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. National Education Association (NEA)
The NEA provides comprehensive research on teacher salaries, working conditions, and attrition rates across the United States.
2. American Federation of Teachers (AFT)
The AFT conducts surveys among educators regarding job satisfaction and offers insights into factors influencing teacher retention.
3. Center for American Progress (CAP)
CAP publishes reports analyzing trends in education policy, teacher workforce issues, and recommendations for improving teacher retention rates.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
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|======================James Constantine Frangos==========================|
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Mehwish’s Answer
It’s truly one of the most impactful and meaningful careers in the world! While you’ve likely come across some negative opinions, I want to provide a balanced perspective and encourage you to pursue your dream if it aligns with your passion.
Every profession has its difficulties, and teaching is no exception. Here are some of the reasons you might hear about teachers feeling disheartened:
Heavy Workload: Teachers often work beyond school hours, grading papers, planning lessons, and managing administrative tasks.
Classroom Challenges: Handling diverse learning needs, managing behavior, and maintaining student engagement can be tough.
Feeling Undervalued: Some teachers feel that their hard work isn’t always recognized or appreciated.
These are real challenges, but they don’t define the teaching profession. Many of the loudest voices come from those who are struggling, while countless teachers quietly find fulfillment and purpose in their work.
Here's the BEST PART - Why Teaching is Worth It?
Let’s talk about the positive side of teaching—the reasons why so many teachers love what they do and why you should consider this career:
1. You’ll Make a Difference Every Day
As a teacher, you have the power to change lives. You’ll be more than just an educator—you’ll be a mentor, a guide, and sometimes even a source of hope for your students. Many students remember their favorite teachers forever because of the impact they had on their lives.
2. You’ll Help Shape the Future
Teaching is about more than delivering lessons; it’s about empowering young people with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. By guiding them, you’re shaping your community's and the world's future.
3. A Career Full of Variety
No two days in teaching are ever the same. Each class, lesson, and student brings something new. This variety keeps the job interesting and exciting.
4. Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning
Teaching helps you grow as a person. You’ll continuously learn about your subject, new teaching methods, and even yourself. The joy of helping others learn often inspires teachers to keep growing, too.
5. Strong Job Stability and Respect
Good teachers are always in demand, and the profession is highly respected. In many communities, teachers are seen as role models and trusted advisors.
6. Work-Life Balance and Time Off
While teaching requires hard work, built-in benefits like holidays and summers off allow you to rest, recharge, and spend time on personal hobbies or family.
So, are you still having negative thoughts? If so, then tell me I'll tell you more beautiful things about teaching :)
Michelle’s Answer
Wow, I am so glad that you are reaching out about this ! You will need a variety of different perspectives in order to make decisions for your dream career. Don't give up too easily, especially not based on how other people's careers are because no one can tell you how your specific journey and career will go. It's time to get a fresh look at things and know that you have many options in the world of Education ! You can do this !
Although my mother, two cousins, an uncle and an Aunt of mine had been educators, I only taught Acting to children through a Parks and Recreation Program which had it's regulations, but is nothing like working in the public schools. I do want to share some exciting information that may be inspiring, hopefully, so you can see the many ways you can use an Education Degree (preferably a Masters Degree).
Realize that the Public School system is not the only place you can teach in. I can predict that through your academics, you may be required (or may not) to student teach or do an internship within the public school system as your training base. But once you obtain your Degree and your Masters and certification, the door is wide open. Let's talk about where you can work that would not be in the public school system under the regulations of a School District.
With your Masters Degree and certification, you can work in a community college and a University, private or State run. You could also work in private, parochial and boarding schools. There is even the possibility of working in alternative education in Waldorf or Montessori Schools for which you would take their training. Don't forget that you can be a tutor or a Home School teacher (yes, parents sometimes actually hire teachers for special one on one or group homeschooling). In addition, with certification, at the same time as a full time job, you can do tutoring online or teach English to foreign speakers online. You can research information about all of these types of Education Career opportunities and learn more about each one. Learn every type of school in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas.
Don't go so much by the things you hear or see other people doing, go with what's in your heart and mind. The further you take it in college, the more opportunities outside of a public school system you will have. I have seen too many educators that have had stellar careers and it would be a missed dream if you give up on it this soon based on other people's experiences. It's just something you'll have to think about more and come to your own decision. I say, go for it !
I hope this is helpful and I wish you all the best !
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