Elementary education teachers?

Question

hello, i'm in my second yr of community college doing general studies for elementary education...i was thinking of transfering to ucf or usf but i'm not sure if i want to stay in this major...are there any elementary school teachers out there on YA who can tell me what to realistically expect in this field...i was thinking the teaching the little ones like 2nd grade...right now in fl they're firing a lot of teachers and a lot of graduates are out of a job...i feel like this is my calling, but then again i also want security in my job as well as money...please help if u can...thanks

Answer 1

Here in Las Vegas (www.ccsd.net), we are hiring every year as new schools are opening every year.  We have had some pretty severe budget cuts this year (who hasn't?) but like a previous person said, once the economy bounces back things will be back to normal.  Our teachers start around $35,000 I think but I will be starting my 6th year this fall and I will be around $54,000 with a Master's degree.  In large districts (we are #5 in the nation) there are great opportunities to do things outside the classroom if you need a break.  I am an elementary school math specialist so if frees me from grading and report cards but still allows me to work with kids.  I think that teaching is a pretty secure profession as long as you don't mind starting out in the "rougher" neighborhoods until you get some experience (many people prefer to stay in these schools even with experience).  Good luck!!

Answer 2

They're firing teachers because of the property tax cut that voters passed last fall. The schools are loosing $130 per student. That doesn't seem like much but when you have 500 students per school (which is a small school) that adds up to $65,000. However, once the economy bounces back, I'm sure that they will be aching for teachers again.

I've been teaching in FL for 5 years and was an Elem Ed major in college. I do know that you'll have the advantage because Florida is one of the only places that I know that allows people without education degrees to teach.  You really shouldn't have a hard time finding a job, especially if you go to areas with a lot of need.

You're going to be a teacher and you need to be realistic. You're going to start out around $30,000 (ish) and most counties top out around $55,000 after 20 years. Plus, you're going to spend a good $500 a year on your classroom for supplies and such.  Although you do get decent benefits and retirement which are fully provided by the county. It's not all bad, but it's a job that you have to LOVE or you won't make it!

Answer 3

I'm an education student also.  only 2 semesters left :)  i wanted to be sure that teaching was for me too.  you should try substitute teaching.  its not the exact same, but it gives you a good idea of what everyday will be like.  It gives you a chance to get used to being in the classroom and having reasponsiblity for 25 kids. Also, i read that by 2010 there will be many openings for teachers, as the baby boomers will all be retiring.  as for the money thing, there isnt much you can do about that expect for get your masters +15.  but dont get your masters until you have been hired someone, or they will never hire you.  they dont want to hire people that they have to pay more money too.  Also, after a few years you could look into an administration postion like principal or something.  they get payed more.  Hope i helped!  teaching is a great job and teachers are awsome.!

Answer 4

Not sure where you are, but in California, the pay is higher than the previous person posted - starts at $50,000 or so where I live (Bay Area).  There are always teaching positions available, though you may have to owrk your way up to gain experience before you are hired in a more stable district.

I am a kindergarten teacher, and I love it.  I am about to start my second year, so I am still very new, but I enjoyed every day of subbing, interning, etc.  Little kids can be tough, but if you are patient and kind, you get pretty far.