I have my certification to teach exceptional student education through grade 12. The thing is, I have learned so much about the public school system in the last couple of years that I am now unsure if I want to work in it. I am more apt to look for a job at a private school, where the administration has some wiggle room when it comes to discipline and enforcing good behavior. I want to be around children who have parents who are vested in their educations, who want them to be there, and who will participate in both the classroom and in their own child’s progress.

However, I really need the health and retirement benefits the public school system can offer. So, as you can see I am in that proverbial place between a rock and a wall. Yikes.

Public schools can be great. Some of the most dedicated teachers are in the public system. There are so many programs to benefit the poor and the learning delayed. There are spots teams for the kids (thought there is then the whole weird debate over illegal steroid and legal steroids and the fine line that my or may not be between the two). Rigorous testing motivates teachers and many students. The local district has implemented some amazing curriculum tools. The list goes on.

My main issue still lies in the area of discipline and behavior and the limitations that have been placed on teachers and administrators in the public system.

Rock and hard place, yes.