Why teaching

My journey into teaching as a profession has been a long one. There have been many twists and turns along the way. Teaching has always been in the back of my mind. When I first went to college I had no idea what I should be doing. I’ve always had a passion for fitness so I looked to a career path in that direction. Research didn’t interest me. I decided to share my enthusiasm for being active with children. My undergraduate field of study was physical education.

I have had some times of doubt about teaching. As a male and a bodybuilder it isn’t something that I should be doing. It has been a struggle to come to the realization that many people will never understand why I chose teaching. They all say I should be a high school teacher and coach a sport. That may be where I end up, but I doubt it. I love the enthusiasm and willingness that elementary age children bring to the classroom. When I’m teaching something that I am confident in, it doesn’t ever feel like work. I cannot imagine doing anything other than teaching. Being an educator helps me learn about myself through my interactions with others.

One insight that I have had after my first week is that there seems to be a disconnect between American educational values and the reality of the educational system. Most Americans talk about free and equal education for all. Free and equal is on of the cornerstones of American ideology. Teachers have great ideas for providing excellent educational experiences for children. Somewhere along the way the system in many places around the country is not in tune with these ideas. Lack of funding and staff affect the students that need the most help.