Teacher-strikes are prominent in the news right now. As always happens, people hear about them and lash out with “facts” as to why teachers should not be striking, how they’re being selfish and greedy and should be in the classroom babysitting, er, I mean teaching, our kids. Following is a list of 21 myths, meaning perceptions about teachers that are NOT true. See how many you’ve heard recently, then speak up next time you hear one. For an explanation of each, go to https://blog.reallygoodstuff.com/21-myths-about-teaching.
Myth #1: Teachers get three months off every summer.
Myth #2: Teachers work from 8am to 3pm and never work weekends.
Myth #3: Teachers get paid vacations.
Myth #4: Teachers sit behind a desk all day.
Myth #5: Teaching is easy.
Myth #6: Teachers build up a tolerance for every germ and virus and do not get sick after teaching a few years.
Myth #7: Teachers do nothing except play with the students all day.
Myth #8: Anyone can be a teacher.
Myth #9: Teachers do not have to go back to school after they have their teaching degree.
Myth #10: All Kindergarten teachers do is color and nap.
Myth #11: Those who can – do. Those who can’t – teach.
Myth #12: Teachers are overpaid.
Myth #13: Teachers can do everything.
Myth #14: There are always a lot of teaching jobs available.
Myth #15: Teachers collect unemployment over the summer.
Myth #16: Teachers have a lot of extra time during the day.
Myth #17: Students always behave.
Myth #18: Students always master things the first time you teach them.
Myth #19: There is no need to plan – especially if you teach Kindergarten.
Myth #20: Everything teachers need to teach is provided for them. They have no out-of-pocket expenses.
Myth #21: All teachers have loads of patience.