Why Do People Become Teachers?

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A compelling reason to become a teacher is the opportunity to have a positive influence in the lives of young people. Many teachers also have a natural inclination for learning and instructing, which means teaching allows them to tap into their gifts and passions.

Teaching is a relatively autonomous profession. One has to follow laws and basic policies set forth in a school district; however, a teacher has some control and authority over the materials and techniques she uses for instruction. Some teachers enjoy the creative process of developing fun and interesting activities to teach kids certain lessons.

Work-family balance is another motive of teaching. Teachers typically get much of the same break time as students receive from school, including summers off, winter breaks, spring break and other holiday breaks through the year. These constant breaks allow teachers ample time for family vacations and the pursuit of other interests. The work day for teachers is often finished by 4:00 p.m. as well, which is earlier than a typical office job or business job ends.

Teaching is also a noble profession with good stability. After one has developed a successful formal or informal tenure in teaching, a district must have a compelling reason to terminate a teacher.