Michael Van Eaton has spent most of his career teaching. During the course of his career, he worked as a chemistry teacher, a physics teacher, a swimming coach and a water polo coach. One of the questions that people who are considering getting into teaching ask existing teachers is why they would work for a public school versus a private school. While there are pros and cons to working in both a public school and a private school, many teachers prefer a public school setting. Here are a few of the reasons why.
Michael Van Eaton Explains Public School Teachers Typically Make More Money
Michael Van Eaton says that one of the biggest misconceptions about teaching at a private school is that private schools pay more. There is less demand for private school teachers, and as such, these positions typically pay less. They also typically have a reduced pension or retirement plan. According to The National Center for Educational Statistics, private school teachers earn an average of $10,000 to $15,000 less per year than public school teachers. Teachers do not make a lot of money as it is. As such, missing out on ten thousand dollars or more can be a huge reason to consider teaching in a public school.
Michael Van Eaton Details How Private Schools May Have Curriculum Teachers Disagree With
Michael Van Eaton explains that another benefit associated with working at public schools is that you do not have to teach curriculum you disagree with. Many private schools are faith-based schools. They often have courses pertaining to religion. Not every teacher is religious, nor do they all share the same belief structure. Religion and personal beliefs are not something that are taught in public school, so you do not have to worry about teaching something that you may disagree with or may not fully believe in.
Michael Van Eaton States Public School Teachers Often Have Less Oversight
Michael Van Eaton describes the final benefit of working at a public school as having less oversight. Private schools tend to have more oversight when it comes to administration and what is being taught. You may have to follow strict lesson plans. When you work in a public school, there is less administration. In turn, you have less oversight. Most people do not enjoy having their boss breathing down their shoulders as they work, and having less oversight helps to ease this burden.
Michael Van Eaton has made a career out of teaching and coaching. He enjoys helping children of all ages learn and fulfill their goals. Regardless of whether you decide to teach at a public school or a private school, deciding to become a teacher has many unique and rewarding elements. Being a teacher can be challenging, but it can also be highly fulfilling. Do your research to learn more about public and private schools in your local community and which may be the right option for you as a teacher.