Professional Expectations & Benefits

Posted by rajajang

February 29, 2008

Like most businesses, education has professional expectations and offers benefits. Though specific policies and benefits vary from school to school, they follow general guidelines.

1. Professional Ethics

Teachers are informed and accept a code of ethics at most schools. The policies can vary depending on the public or private status of the school. These codes outline what most of us might think are common sense, but they exist to make sure there is no gray area. For example, teachers are expected to act professional in and out of the classroom.

Students and teachers must always have professional relationships, and teachers may not profit from student or parent relationships. Read over the expectations carefully and make sure that you won’t be crossing any lines you shouldn’t. Public school systems require a background check and fingerprinting to make sure teachers are suitable for employ.

2. Salary

Being a teacher is not a high paying job. Don’t look to make a salary based on your education, but do look for a salary based on your experience. Most public schools pay based on years of service and degree. A fifth year teacher with a masters will make more that a first year teacher with bachelors. Use TheApple Salary Calculator to figure out how much you’re worth.

Private schools hold discretion to pay their faculty on merit or experience. Ask your school if they distribute your salary over the course of the school year or over the calendar year. This will help you plan your finances and know what to expect come your first pay period.

3. Vacation

There are many vacation days built in to the school year. Don’t worry about having to take time off around the holidays; it’s one of the perks to being a teacher. You do accrue sick and personal days throughout the year, but don’t expect to use all of your earned days every year. Since the teaching schedule is so great, when school is in session, plan to be there every day.

4. Healthcare

Family healthcare is a standard benefit in schools. Expect to be offered healthcare for general care as well as dental and vision. Many plans cover counseling, rehabilitation and other special services.

5. Insurance

Short and long-term disability plans may not be a part of the public school standard package. For a minimal fee, the system should provide a choice of carriers to choose from. Life insurance and workman compensation policies, however, are usually standard.

6. Retirement

Most public schools offer a state retirement plan, while private schools might offer 401K plans. It is common for separate investment and retirement companies to work with schools help teachers plan for the future. Find out more about retirement and planning for the future.

Return to 10 Steps to Becoming a Teacher

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