Are there many teachers that quit after the first few weeks of school?

Question

I am a certified high school science teacher in Texas without a job. Just wondering.

Answer 1

It happens for different reasons. It's more common in rough schools or districts. During my first year, I knew about 5 people who quit (not at my school though in the same NYC borough where I work). One quit because of confrontations with her administrators. Another woman quit because she couldn't control her class and did not get support. It actually became physically dangerous for her. Kids were throwing chairs at her and threatening her. She did not have a strong presence and was not able to command respect from those 7th graders.

A lot of teachers come into urban schools and can't cope with the tough environment. They leave. Don't give up hope, look in tougher districts because you never know what could happen.

Answer 2

No - that is extremely rare.  If you quit in the middle of your contract period you can lose your license, so most teachers stick it out unti the end of the year even if they are miserable.  

There are long term substitute positions that open up all the time, often for teachers going on maternity leave.  Also, sometimes schools will add one or two teachers after the start of a school year if their student enrollment is larger than expected.  

Answer 3

I am sure some do. I am  also a teacher (recently certified) and have been looking for my first teaching job. It is August and I am disappointed because my plans included a job by now. I will just be patient.

Just wait and see there is a shortage in science teachers. Come to South Texas they have bonuses.

good luck

Answer 4

This happens more often than you might think.  Most of the time these are first year teachers.  Typically, they come into the classroom after their internship where the veteran teacher has established the rules and procedures.  These newbies find themselves overwhelmed just with establishing a discipline routine never mind learning a curriculum.  On top of that, they don't usually get the "cream of the crop" and their peer teachers and administrators let them sink or swim.  I've seen it happen time and time again in my 17 years in the education field.

If you are willing to travel, try another state or perhaps think about teaching for The Department of Defense (DoDDS).  http://www.eu.dodea.edu/home/