The Underrated Profession

I can't help but observing that the regular careers in education don't take off yet, specially in third world developing countries. Naturally, there are teaching positions that are occupied by excellent educators who receive high praise. But the whole conception of teaching doesn't keep up with other fields.

It's like the rule of thumb. And it is obviously not linked to the specific skills any teacher may have. So, in this summer break, where most teachers are taking their deserved time off, I think it is a good opportunity to ponder a little bit on this issue. I know many do - I have several times. It is in he vicinity of the common sense to probe what has gone throughout the school year. Put on the balance the pros and cons as a way to fortify the teaching's calling.

So, instead of trying to answer why teaching is not perceived as valuable as other professions (because everyone has their own perceptions), I prefer to point out some important elements that are part of the lives of teachers.

The rewards

Of course, any teacher is not supposed to have harbor only monetary purpose. It should be one of the many. Like any other noble career, the duty to serve others is paramount. But as I said, there are places where teachers are treated like martyrs.

This essentially has an origin in the governmental systems. And it's paralleled to the honorability from the "elected" officials. If we look at how professionals in education are treated in certain regions such south America, Africa and parts of Asia, we can only feel shame to see this happening.

The hard work professionals do everyday, trying to enlighten minds is poorly rewarded. And I'm not talking about huge profits, but the enough earnings to at least sustain the basic needs. Very few people know this, and others in different areas even joke about it, but teachers in the mentioned places are exploited and denigrated economically and socially. And it has settled down like a tradition.

Teacher's life matters as well

It is common to see these teachers where they have to travel long distances to get to their work places. It resembles a lot the time when they were students, and were promised that someday their lives would improve when they become professionals.

It is Not good to improving only the lives of others while your own life remains stagnant, in the same place. Others will say that it is an admirable sacrifice. But you have to be very careful who you listen to. Because people, specially those in the government or some in the private sector, can easily take your passion for teaching and try to manipulate you.

That's why it is always imperative that teachers, and other professionals too, have dignity and self-respect. If we're in the business of inspiring youngsters, so to speak, in order to get the best of them, we need to portray a remarkable example.

I know that this is easier to say it than to do it. Teachers don't have much support in some countries. They can organize themselves and ask for better treatment. However, it is fruitless because the efforts don't provoke a major change yet.

Choosing to be a teacher

When some people talk with such high distinction about educators, I wonder if they really ask themselves about the general appreciation from communities. Because if we look at a random family, we see that parents feels prouder when their children tell them their desire of becoming a doctor, an architect or even a lawyer.

With some exceptions, the majority doesn't get so much excited when a child says that he/she wants to be a teacher. Maybe they unconsciously know what destiny will bring them. And if they feel happy, perhaps they harbor the idea that their children aim for higher positions instead of just settling down as a school teacher.

It's the perception of how society sees this profession. And it gets embedded in the mind that it lacks of importance. So, when we observe the personal problems teachers go through, it's taken slightly as if it comes with the job.

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As I said in the beginning, all depends on the region you live in. In some places it is high valued. And teachers feel appraisal and receive better treatment from institutions, societies and governments. But sadly, the world of education is not tailored the same.

@edave

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