Teaching Contracts

Posted by rajajang

February 29, 2008

If you have applied for a public school job and can fulfill the application requirements, you might be offered a contract.

1. Committing

Teaching is not a job you should quit half way through the year. Make a commitment for one year, or the length of your contract to try your best. Quitting would reflect poorly on your obligation to the students and it can have serious repercussions on your career. If you break your contract without reasonable cause, the state can revoke or suspend your teaching license and refuse to employ you for as long as they deem necessary.

2. Reading the Contract

If are you ready to commit, read over the contract carefully. Teaching contracts are pretty simple. Most public contracts are good for one school year. They should contain the amount of days you’re expected to work, your job title, and your salary. If anything isn’t listed correct, don’t sign! Make sure a new contract with the correct information is printed. Double check that the salary that is listed on your contract is current with the pay scale the school or system puts forth.

3. Signing the Contract

Once all the information is correct, sign and copy the contract before returning it. Keep the contract in your files for reference should you have any questions after you receive your first paycheck. If you continue to work for the school, compare your contracts from year to year to see what expectations have changed. Ask about your school’s policy on tenure and transfer to get a clear picture of your job security.

Return to Ten Steps to Becoming a Teacher

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