Hi, I'm a 22 year old male college student majoring in ECE and I am roughly early in my major(I've taken several early childhood education classes, but I still have a long way to go before I get my bachelor's) I recently got hired as a transitional Early Childhood education teacher at a local Kindercare. They describe the position. As for the first year of employment, I am going to be with another teacher (like a teacher's aide I think) however, once I finish one year of employment and have my state certifications I will be The lead teacher of a classroom. Because I am not towards the end of my degree, I have not yet completed my student teaching hours. I did some observational hours for a previous Early Childhood education class but never full-on teaching. Does anyone have any advice for this job and what to expect/ advice for in the classroom?

Hi! I have 5 years of in person experience teaching and I’m certified in Georgia for Middle Grades math and 6-12th business Ed. I’m feeling burnt out and I loved online teaching during covid so thinking about the idea of doing it full time.

I have my masters in teaching and I’m fully licensed in Georgia. Anyone have good experiences finding online jobs for certified teachers (not online tutoring but full time teaching) that you’d recommend? Thanks!!!

I'm in my second year of teaching and am teaching senior History and Classics (Ancient Greece and Rome). I'd love to just stand there for 85 minutes and lecture and dish out readings, but unfortunately, that's not the go for 15-16 year olds...

For context, I'm trying to use PowerPoints less and would prefer to rely less on computer-based activities (so they can't just copy and paste answers).

Some activities I use quite often are giving out worksheets based on a provided reading, filling in the blanks, summarising articles or readings, having them do research online for questions I give them, and group essay-writing activities later in the year when it comes to exam prep.

Any and all ideas are welcome!

I need a lot of help from any teacher in Texas. I hold a BS in Kinesiology and a couple AS in Kinesiology and Nutrition. I know I’m more likely to hired as a PE teacher and I’m fine with that. But I just have a few questions about testing for my certifications and I’m also interested in testing to be a social studies teacher. Would I still have to do an alternative teaching program to test or is it possible since I’m currently working as a substitute teacher to test to become certified for both or at least one for now while I get used to being full-time?

Extra details: Only reason why I didn’t graduate from a teaching program is because I was out of FA and I didn’t want to take out more student loans to stay in college for at least another year or two to get back in the program.

Hi everyone, hoping someone knows the answer to this because of the ODE is so bad at answering questions.

Little background… I did all the requirements to have an alternative residents license in SS but couldn’t find a job so I took a job as a year long, long term sub for 4th grade intervention. It’s been wonderful and I love it.

After a discussion with my building principals, they would love to have me move into a 4th grade classroom. Currently the spot that is looking like it will be open is a math classroom where I will also have to do a phonics classroom. It is listed as a 4th grade math/ELA job.

I know how to get a resident education license in math, but the ELA part is confusing to me. I know that in early childhood age you have to get the phonics (foundations of reading?) OAE stuff done but that is different than the integrated English test that I have already taken. Any guidance?

I've been a sub at the school I student taught at for a year and a half now since I couldn't find anything after graduating. It was a bummer, but I get it, Social Studies is really hard to get. I also really like the school and have built a good rapport with a lot of the staff, including my "own" department, so it hasn't been all bad.

Recently, there was an opening in the Social Studies department thanks to someone getting a way better job somewhere else. I obviously applied and was super excited to maybe be on the verge of being a full-on member of a community I've really become fond of. I go into the interview very optimistic. My old mentor and other department members I know are there, and the admin, who I also get along with, are there too.

That's where the problems start. I know, and know that they know, that I had some struggles with classroom management when I was student teaching, but I ultimately overcame it enough to pass. Problem is, I was never given a question about classroom management, so I never really had an opening to talk about how much I've poured into refining my skills and knowledge ever since I finished student teaching. I guess I "could" have just gone on a tangent about it, but I didn't even feel that much of an opening to do that either. Instead, a lot of the questions almost felt like they're made for people with at least a decent amount of experience already; that that's who they want in the first place.

Still, I did the best I could. I answered the questions, even the odd ones, the best I could using the experiences I did have as a student teacher, and pointed out that I thought I would only be better at it now. I also laid out other plans I had if I were to be hired for this and that aspect of teaching, made it clear how much I enjoy being part of this community, and left at least a little optimistic.

A couple of days later, the principal told me I didn't get it. They were actually very understanding; it almost sounded like they, for one, were leaning toward me when they were talking about the candidates. That's when they told me that the department (meaning, I know, my mentor) said a lot of the answers I gave about this or that scenario were "incongruous to how you were during student teaching." I thanked them for their consideration, put on a good face, and that was that.

But privately, I'm just really hurt. I'm not even that mad, just really, really personally hurt. First off, like I said, I was never given a clear chance to say, "So I know I struggled a bit in these areas, but since then, I've studied this and that theory and developed this and that plan for it." None of that. But also there's the idea that they just "assumed" that I haven't grown at all in the almost two years since I was a student teacher and based their whole idea of my skills on a version of me I've outgrown and improved from. All of this coming from people that I really respect and want to be part of a team with. I'm not a crier, but I really felt like I was on the verge of tears when that sunk in after the meeting. And if they wanted someone with experience, like the questions implied, or if they still think that's how I am, why even interview me and give me hope?

I know I shouldn't be presumptuous, but I felt really good about this one. I've been trying to get a full-time job for almost two years now, and this one really felt like a dream come true; one that was in my grasp, too. I could almost taste it, that's how good I felt before the interview. It was *right* there, and I lost it because of unfair assumptions that I wasn't even given a chance to clear up. And it makes me think, "If I couldn't even land it here, where I'm known and liked, can I get one anywhere? Am I just not good enough for this, even after all this time?" I don't know, it just really, really sucks, I'm still really bummed out about it, and I needed to vent about it. Thanks for attending my lecture.

Last year was my first year teaching in a small school. I had a ton of issues with my team, solely because I was the new girl and I was amongst a group of tight knit women. My principal was very supportive of me, and saw the drama for what it is; women being petty. They bullied me a lot and refused to help me as a first year teacher. Finally, he had enough and called a meeting with my team where he defended me and told them to basically cut the bullshit.

I just found out a year later that they spread a rumor about me and him having a sexual affair together. The women that started it no longer work at my school, but I feel so uncomfortable. It is not true at all, and it was a year ago this started going around, but I feel so embarrassed that people heard that rumor being spread about me. I can’t walk in the halls anymore without thinking that people view me as someone who “sucked my bosses’ d***”. Idk how to get over it. It’s really bothering me. The mentioned principal no longer works here either, and now I feel guilt thinking it may have had to do with that rumor. Please help

I don't know if this sub is strictly for teachers, but I'm a senior in high school hoping to become a teacher. I want to be a high school English teacher because I genuinely believe that America needs more common sense, the tools to analyze rhetoric, evaluate the credibility of sources, and spot propaganda. I believe that all of these skills are either taught or expanded on during high school English/language arts. However, when I told my counselor at school that I wanted to be a teacher, she made a face and asked if I was *sure*. Pretty much every adult and even some of my peers have had the same reaction. Is being a teacher really that bad?

Does anyone else's district make steps really hard to follow? A few examples:

My first public school district, I came in on step 5 as a brand new teacher. It was the lowest step they had at the time, no step 1. I ended up on step 12 by my 7th year (so 1 year of experience = 1 step). I switched districts and recently asked what step I'd be on if I came back. They said they don't discuss salary placement before offering a position but that 1 year of experience = 1 step. However, they now start at step 1! So I'm inclined to believe I'd be at step 10 for my 10th year teaching next year - more than I was making in my 7th year since they redid the schedule, but less than I make now.

My current district, I came in with 7 years of experience, plus 1 year teaching abroad that they accepted (previous district didn't). This is now my 2nd year for a total of 9 years of public school teaching + the year I was abroad. I'm on step 18?! They redid their salary schedule right when I came in.

I'm interested in switching teaching positions but it's making it impossible to tell what I'd be making in a different district. Anyone else have similar experiences?

Hello, so I want to work language with a child who can't read or write yet so I'm looking for recommendations of any websites that can let the child "interact" with objects like for example if we're talking about fruits so that the kid can move fruits around and maybe slice them or something that seems engaging. But preferably a website where I can create the resources so I can make different ones about various topics. Thanks!

I’m stressed out my ass and I’m going day by day. And it’s so hard for me to keep going. And now it’s showing up in my kids. They’re not working anymore! I teach art and i used to have 15/22 kids working, now it’s like… 4/22. Like it’s so bad. And im like “hey we gotta get to work!” And they’re like “lol we’ve not been working this whole week?”. Everyone i keep asking about classroom management is like “you gotta reign it back in” but these kids are walking over me and i still don’t have a backbone even as much as i try. Even when i really really try, they don’t even listen because ive been too damn soft and weak. Like I’m trying to go into next week as a fresh start but I’m so afraid the kids are gonna just keep doing nothing. And it’s my fault, like 100% my fault. I love this job but a first year teacher is so damn stressful like. Jesus bro.

It’s my fifth year teaching 10th grade ELA. First year was Covid, and online learning so it’s basically my fourth year in-person teaching. My first year I was way too nice. Practically a doormat to the kids because I foolishly wanted them to have fun and like me. Stupid, I know. Fast forward to this year, I’ve been the strictest I know. I have policies and expectations, and minimal behavior issues. It’s been working. Only thing is I wish there was more “learning fun” in my class. It would be cool to hear the kids laugh once in awhile. Not at me bc I am no way a comedian but just from the joy of doing activities together. I’m trying to find my balance between having a respectable class where my students take me seriously but also weave in fun from time to time so things aren’t so dry and rigid. Idk I guess I got wrapped up in them following a strict routine and I want to add some leniency and fun if that makes sense. I see the worth in the strictness, but I feel it’s possible to have a balance. Any suggestions would be great, and I’m new so I acknowledge the ignorance I may have. Thanks for your time.

I have 23 kindergarteners and half of them are ELL students. They are very chatty.

They aren’t loud as in yelling. There are just so many of them in our small classroom..

How can I be a more effective teacher when my class is so chatty? I don’t want to be a super strict teacher and yell at the kids all the time. But I don’t know what else to do. I read “Interrupting chicken,” “my mouth is a volcano.” I’ve done extensive lessons on respect. We’ve talked about not talking when the teacher is talking. What can I do?

Also because my class is high ELL, I have to repeat directions multiple times. Even if I say “what did I say?” Or “ask a friend.” Without fail, I have kiddos talking all the time. During lessons they are so good at being listeners and sitting but by the end of the day, I feel like I have horrible classroom management.

The kids aren’t running around and being destructive or yelling. They are just chatty as a group. We spent 20 minutes just cleaning out our lockers and getting to the carpet. Is this normal or am I expecting too much out of kindergarteners?

My coworkers look at me like I’m crazy when I say that my class is very chatty like their classes are perfect angels.

HELP!

I just started teaching I’m on my 4th month. I have realized kids learn different now especially after Covid. What are some of your best strategies to keep kids engaged? I’ve been trying group work where the class breaks into small sheets and they will do a task together. I try to lecture for 5-10 minutes max at a time so I don’t lose them. I’d like to try Ed puzzles. Any suggestions?

I am considering moving districts from a non-union school to a union-backed district but I have all kinds of nerves about starting fresh. Looking for some fresh perspectives about union -vs- non-union experience.

I am currently 3 years in at a non-union charter. This my first full time position; I was a sub for many years before this. I was hesitant to take the job because there was no union but I needed work ASAP and I liked the idea of school's culture. We have at will contracts, salaried (but not tiered or according to degrees or units, and only 6 days paid leave per year. I stay for after-school meetings or clubs at least 2 days a week, and advise 7 students outside of my classes on school projects, on prep or after school (about 21 meetings). Teachers also attend all 504s and IEPs scheduled on prep or after school, and 2 meetings a month with curriculum coach.

Not all departments are treated equally. I write and revise all my own English units every year (including daily activities and assessments), whereas another department follows a textbook almost page by page and has an online program with pre-built lessons for independent practice. I constantly feel like I am drowning and can never catch up with all I have to do.

I have 3 family members who have worked as union reps or closely with union staff and have several teacher friends in union backed districts telling me to get out ASAP. I really would like to work at a union-backed school but I am so scared to "lose" all the work I have invested into my current classes. How would my experience be different at a union-backed school?

What has your experience been working in a union school? How has having a union benefited you as a professional?

So I was a paraprofessional for 3 years and then graduated college and got certified to become a teacher. While I was in college I was told that in Texas, para years count towards service years. However, now that I’m a teacher, I’m finding out that “some” districts do this. I’m confused because after doing some research I found out that this is clearly listed legally so how are some districts not acknowledging the years? i have emailed a contact in the district and was told they don’t do that without any explanation. I have talked to my principal and she was very supportive. She agreed with me and we sat down and wrote an email to one of the district contacts but got no response.

Anybody has any idea, experience or any advice on this? Or am I just not understanding this correctly?

I have attached the link for reference:

https://www.tasb.org/news-insights/creditable-experience-for-paraprofessionals-transitioning-to-a-teaching-role

I’m in my 2nd year of teaching. I was a paraprofessional for 3 years.

I got a letter from the superintendent that cell phones are banned starting in one month. WOW, thank Gandhi for this one. Then I read it's in all of Maryland.

This should have happened long ago. Kids are depressed and disconnected from real life.

Not to bore you to pieces (and sorry if I do) but here's part of the email from the superintendent.

Some of the verbiage has a few holes in it. So, the kids are allowed to bring them but not allowed to use them----oh great

While more information will be provided to students, staff and parents/guardians prior to the March 3rd implementation date, here are the highlights of the adjustments that were adopted by the Board: 

• No students, PreKindergarten-12, will be permitted to use cell phones and other personal devices during the student day (first bell to last bell of the day) except for reasons detailed in a student’s IEP, 504, or health plan. 
• Smart watches will be permitted to be worn to check time but may not be a distraction.  
• When a personal device is used in violation of the new policy, the device will be confiscated for the remainder of the student day. 
• Students may be in possession of personal devices, but they must be “away and silenced”, meaning devices are not able to be seen by either the student or staff member and are set to make no noise. 
• Personal laptops may be used for instructional activities in high school when permitted by the teacher. 
• A staff member on a school-sponsored field trip may permit the use of a personal technology device by a student in limited situations where capturing a picture or video may be appropriate or contacting a parent/guardian is necessary.   
• School administrators and school administrators’ designees may authorize use of a personal device in rare instances such as an emergency for communication purposes.

No matter how hard i try to stay one step beyond the students and their desire to not do theor own work and instead just use AI for EVERYTHING, it is just physically taxing and impossible. Teaching has become a sham. Ugh.

Pretty much what it says on the tin, I gave a fiction free write assignment and a kid wrote a short story about me marrying another teacher because we’re both single. I thought it was hilarious, I just started at this school and I haven’t even met this other teacher and also I’m gay so I hate to crush her shipping dreams but it’s never gonna happen. Now I get to grade fanfic about myself. 😂

Hello all!

I am currently student teaching a 9th grade biology class in Ohio. My cooperating teacher has not taught biology for a number of years, and the resource folders she has been sharing with me are somewhat lacking of modern content and organization.

Would any bio teacher be willing to share any resources with me to help supplement my unit/lesson planning? I am currently planning Mendelian genetics & patterns of inheritance. But any units resources would be appreciated!

Thank you! 😊

I'm dealing right now with a friend who is a bit too open with students, which means my name enters the conversation more than I'm comfortable with. As it happens, I'm dealing with financial fallout from an issue last year, and so she offered to let me rent from her. Now I have students asking me all kinds of weird things about my home life. I told her to not talk about me with students -- ever -- and that nothing outside the walls of the school is their business. Her response? An indignant "Well kids know things and I talk about my life with students and so you'll come up sometimes and I'm tired of watching what I say." I'm baffled. Like, aren't you busy TEACHING? I barely have time to get through a lesson, so I don't have time to talk about myself, and it's never been a burden to not talk about coworkers. Am I being unreasonable here for being upset?

Has anyone taught in a classical education setting? I have some qualms with the public school where I teach and am curious about other options. How is academic achievement? How is behavior and discipline? Is there a strong focus on academics coming from leadership?

I (25F) am not a teacher, but am considering becoming a high school biology teacher. To preface, I got a bachelor's degree in Biology, have NO teaching experience (unless you count being a gymnastics instructor years ago), and have been doing hair for the last year (lol)... I want a more stable career, but do not want to do the research/lab aspect of biology. i need someone to be honest with me & give me ALL the pros and cons and advice that I should know about this career! would they even look twice at my resume with no student teaching experience and my most recent job being at a hair salon? lol. obviously I have the degree and will take the mtel if I decide to do this but im wondering how important experience is as well... tyia :-)

Hi! As the caption says. I got into both Pepperdine and usc for the MAT program and I’m not sure which is better. Can anyone offer guidance or advice or personal experience. I’m doing multiple subject :)

Hi everyone! So I’m in need of advice for a particular student I teach in Hong Kong. She’s in kindergarten and her speaking reading and writing level is alright for her age but the biggest weakness she has is spelling. I’ve tried a lot of methods with her to improve her spelling skills but no matter what I do she seems to be stuck I’ve tried flashcards so that she can remember the words would concept check with her to see if she understands what she is being taught and the thing is she gives up too easily usually when she really gives her efforts she’s actually able to spell I’m teaching her some basic cvc words some beginning and ending blends to make sure she knows these and apparently she only knows half of it. Any advice on how I can help her out? Feel free to ask questions

I (58F) have worked as a teacher for 28 years. I am seriously considering quitting now and finding other work while I still have work-life in me, or continue working as a teacher to hit the 30 year mark to get the insurance subsidy benefit (50% insurance premium) for 5 years before transitioning in Medicare. I would love to hear what other teachers that have retired either before or after the big 30 year mark. Every year seems to get crazier. I like the idea of leaving before "I can't stand it or myself doing it". But, is it stupid not to go two more school years? Or is it crazy not to cut and run take the retirement payment, get another job, and get insurance from that job or on market place?

Please help! I am a student teacher in 3rd grade. A teacher fourth grade quit, and my CT was asked to/told to move to fourth grade. I was asked to takeover the class, but with constant support from either the behavioral specialist and the third grade instructional specialist will become my new CT, who will be there a little over half of the day. This will all be effective on Monday.

The principals introduced it to me by saying I would start my takeover in math fully next week and basically run whatever I feel comfortable with. They said the last thing they want is for me to be taken advantage of and said I would receive a “stipend” and become an employee of the school for the rest of the school year/my student teaching experience. I know the kids very well and was there last semester as well as this month.

In other words, I will be taking the place of a long term sub. I’ll be responsible for a lot of planning, parent contacts, etc but with the support of my new CT. What sort of pay should I expect/advocate for? What number is way too low?

For reference, I am placed in a charter school in a mid-sized midwestern city!

Advice on bullying? Real life scenarios. How did your school approach it? Did it keep you up at night? 4-6 grade

I work as a teachers assistant in elementary schools for special education. I’m the only Asian staff member working in school and today a kid walked by me and said “Ching Chong” to me. I pretended I didn’t hear anything because I did not know how to react. This kid is also in a Special Ed Class and we’ve been in the same classroom before, he was mumbling something while looking at me and I thought he needed help so I approached him and asked if he needed help or if he was talking to me. He responded saying that he was talking to the girl next to me and kept looking at us for the whole time I was there. Thinking about it now he probably wasn’t saying nice things about me to his friends who sat next to him. It’s giving me flashbacks of being bullied when I was in middle school and it didn’t feel too good. I am not a professional so I don’t know what I should do in this situation. I’m very upset about it but I feel like getting upset because of a special ed student would look very immature (I’m 19) can any teacher give me some suggestions?