Expert: James J. Kovalcin - 10/26/2006

Question
why do you like to teach so much? what are the positives of teaching? what are the negative?  

Answer
Pros:
1. The look on a student's eyes when he/she understands.
2. Every day is different.
3. A high degree of self autonomy.
4. The "stage"!
5. Every year is a new challenge.
6. You can always do better next year.
7. Decent pay [depending on where your work/live.
8. Good benefits/retirement [depending on where you live.
9. Great students! There will be many of these.

Cons:
1. Paperwork! Grading papers, writing lesson plans, tests, quizzes etc. [Essentially "homework for life!"]
2. Infuriatingly stupid school laws.
3. No child left behind! [Mediocrity is disguise!]
4. Misguided administrators, board members etc. who forget why schools exist.
5. Bathroom duty, hall duty etc.
6. Too little preparation time built into the school day.
7. Students who are mean, cruel, impolite, and inconsiderate. [There will be a small, but significant number of these! Occasionally they can make life a living hell!]

Final remark! I have been teaching for 35+ years and hope to be doing so 20 years from now if I am able!