Raise Your Hand for
The American Dream
For many, the American Dream has become a nightmare. -Bernie Sanders
Educator in Miami-Dade County
Play Me
There is no better way to understand what it feels like to be in the shoes of educators today than to hear them express in their own words what it is like to be in the education field. I had the privilege of interviewing Ms. Sills, an elementary public school teacher, who was also my teacher when I was in elementary school.
During the interview I had with Ms. Sills she gave me a better outlook of what lies ahead for educators and any future educators. As a future educator myself it made me question whether or not I want to continue pursuing the pathway towards education. It opened my eyes to the fact that there will be a burden of loans that will take years to pay off, I will be under appreciated and I can wave financial security goodbye. Also, in Ms.Sills very own words she says, "The only reward that comes out of this field will come from the kids."
Working everyday endlessly would only make sense if the salary I would potentially make balances out all the effort and dedication I am putting in. But, unfortunately, educators today are being paid far less than what they actually deserve. Furthermore, I have to take into consideration that not only will I have to dedicate all my time and energy into educating and teaching valuable lessons to other people’s children but also I would be depriving myself time away from my own family.
So does this mean that the American Dream for educators today only comprise of them having to struggle to make ends meet with the hope that their retirement money is not affected? The system in America has been and currently still has long-standing issues that educators have to endure because they are not being credited or recognized for all that they are doing. The ideal American Dream eventually remains just a dream since America as a whole fail to recognize that teachers are the ones who mold each and every individual the core values that are needed to live in this world. These are the same people who taught each of us how to read, write and count are the same ones who put their dreams on hold to ensure that their students are receiving the best quality of education in preparation of becoming tomorrow's future leaders. To further understand what it is like to live a life of an educator listen to the interview I had with Ms. Sills as she expounds on the past 26 years she has been in teaching, she also shares some advice to anyone who decides to pursue in the field.
Testimonials
Being an educator in America I would have to say No! There is no possible way the American Dream is achievable mainly because of the cost of living. There is this barrier that stands in the way since I have a Master's Degree only because I relied on student loans. Despite that, it is a pleasure being in a position where I can input knowledge and wisdom on the students I teach even if there is no financial stability.
-Ms. Mandrell (Elementary Public-School Teacher)
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No, I think it is very hard to achieve the American Dream because I have a masters in Education in which I have to take loans out to pay for it. So comparing the debt and and the amount I am being paid for, receiving a masters would not make up for it. I think that educators are not treated fairly when it comes to our salaries but I do appreciate my job because I love what I do!
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-Ms. Mapps (Elementary Public-School Teacher)