I am a teacher, not a "glorified babysitter"!!!!(more info and a thank you post # 52)

[eeyore kelly]

We didn't have Pre-K when DS was in elmentry school, but we did have DK. His DK teacher worked very hard with DS, and laid a firm foundation for learning and disapline. It is because of this teacher that I think DS does so well in school. To say that younger grades only have babysitters is short sighted. Not only are you a real teacher, you have to set the base for all other teachers.

 

[jonestavern]

I'm not the OP--so don't know why everyone is addressing me in the first person (quoting me and then addressing me).

Thanks!

I can't be sure if this was in re: to my post, but I quoted you because I thought what you had to say was excellent-
I thought it was understood I was addressing Blondy876-

Jean

 

[JVL1018]

I use to be, but now, it is no different than Kindergarten or 1st grade. My students are expected to know how to read,(simple books)write (their names and friends names along with a lot of other simple words) and count (along with some simple computation). The state comes in and observes my teaching as does the district. They also do their own evaluations. If my students go off to Kindergarten, and the Kindergarten teacher finds that they are unable to write their names, or count high enough, she can turn me in, and I get a call from the district asking for an explanation.

When I started in pre-k it was babysitting. Then the state got more involved and required certified teachers in the classrooms and for those teachers to do the same things that are expected of teachers of older grades.

Around here there are no expectations like what you have for PreK, there is no state funded Pre K, no PreK in the public schools,we sent our daughter to preschool at a private place, my son starts there this fall.
DD learned shapes and colors and numbers in PreK3(though she knew them already) and in PreK she learned the letters of the alphabet, no reading. She does know how to read, but I taught her myself when she showed an interest months ago.
The schools do not expect or care if the kids know how to read when they get into K, they will know by the time they are done with K, if they don't know already, so it's not a big deal if they come in non readers
.
I sent her to preschool for socialization only. She did crafts, made friends, and learned how to behave in a school setting among other things, all of which are wonderful.

I would never ever put someone down or make a comment to them like those women made to you, I think that was totally uncalled for.
Preschool teachers provide a valuable service, and it is not babysitting, but since you're asking I also don't think it is the same as a K-12 teacher, sorry.
I guess I think this because my friends who are teachers did preschool teaching while on their way to getting their Master's or finding jobs in the elementary schools.

 

[chrisney]

I really have to laugh when I hear people make comments like this. I'm currently a computer specialist for a preschool/primary school. In my (many) years of teaching I've taught from 18 month olds through high school. Yep, every single grade except three year olds. First was upper elementary special education grades 3-5, next was middle school special ed grades 6-8, then another stint at upper elementary in a nationally known school for special education, then high school math and computer (again special ed, but I did teach some "regular" computer classes). I now teach 4-7 year olds during the week and k-7 on weekends. Every grade/year has it's wonderful and not so wonderful aspects.

Parents quickly learn that I can be a good resource for them. From giving them ideas for software (not much new stuff that's good out there so older programs and where to get them) to "my computer is doing.....what could it be answers. I'm the one who teaches their child how not to "break" their computer. I teach sequencing, practice eye-hand coordination and small motor control. I also provide practice in a skill that's hard to work on in a regular preschool class-the ability to see things on one plane and work with them on another. That's what our kids have to do when things are taught on the blackboard (white board, overhead, etc) and complete the task on their desktop. I assist in developing cooperative learning, limiting impulsivity, following directions...and that's before we begin on whatever program is being used.

So, don't tell me I'm not teaching. I'm teaching as much (if not more) than at any other level. I'm using every skill I was ever taught or developed on my own. Once you get beyond the basics, teaching is an art. Yes, you have to know your subject/curriculum and keep current on new technology,but the ability to impart that knowledge is the variable that truly defines a teacher. And folks, it isn't the same for every kid. Therein lies the art. My goal for each student is that they feel capable, and see a return on their involvement in my class. To put a child who may be feeling limited success in other areas into a situation where they can shine in front of their classmates (and sometimes to rein in a child who is overstepping...but gently). To make sure each kid gets as much out of the program as they can. Doesn't sound like a "babysitting" agenda, does it?

I'm a professional. I also happen to love my job. Fortunately, my own school community recognizes both. Their respect goes a long way toward making up for the level of monetary compensation that a job like this affords. It's only because my husband makes a good living that I can afford to continue.

 

[lajones81]

I'm sorry that you had such a bad experience!

 

[JoyG]

I am shocked and appalled by some of the degrading comments about PreK from other teachers on this thread...obviously spoken from people who've never taught PreK.

My inner city public school goes from PreK to grade 8... The PreK teacher needs a master degree in NY to be permenently certified, just like everyone else. The PreK teacher works all day just like everyone else. She gets one half hour lunch break and one half hour break during the day...just like everyone else (oops, except the junior high teachers get 40min breaks!). Her lesson plans get turned in every Friday...just like everyone else. She attends every inservice and faculty meeting...just like everyone else. She does report cards and parent conferences. How anyone could consider this person less of a teacher is beyond me, just because her students are younger?

Is it b/c you don't think PreK is important? People who attend PreK are far less likely to end up in jail as adults and it costs less to send a child to PreK than it does to house an inmate.

PreK is often the first line of defense in learning/speech/hearing or behavioral problems. Well trained PreKindergarten teachers can have a child identified and in treatment before it has a serious impact on their learning.

What really shocks me is the comments from Junior High school teachers diminishing a PreK teacher's job...Most Junior High teachers I've met, including the ones at my school would never want to teach PreK because they couldn't handle it....you think keeping a bunch of hormonal preteens in line is a challenge, try keeping a class of 25 four years old quite during an hour long assembly!!! Every teachers job is hard in different ways and those teachers who don't believe that should ask their principals for a grade change next year then we'll resume this conversation in the spring...we'll see what you have to say then.

 

[lewdyan1]

I am a retired Pre-K teacher and current substitute and I am amazed at the work current Pre-K teachers do. In a single day, you have shared reading, small group, large group, phonological and phonemic awareness, planning, work and review time (high scope), socialization/ self-help, gross motor...the list goes on. All of this is in accordance to a set curriculum, with required lesson plans, testing and a lot of record keeping. How anyone could consider this a babysitting position amazes me!

I love working in Pre-K, but truly can't imagine being a full-time teacher, because it is such a hard job. That is the reward of subsituting, working with the children and getting lots of hugs and love, and no paperwork!

 

[Magalex]

In my local area PRE-K is defined two different ways 1) AKA 3/4 yr old preschool or 2) 5 yr old program for children who just miss the Sept 1st deadline or have late summer birthdays(that is my DS born 8/20/2000). He has been going to a wonderful preschool since 3. To my DH and I very much what we remember as kindergarten for us. But they also offer a 5 day a week special program(PRE-K) for 5 yr olds. We call it a practice run for kindergarten. I have heard so many great things about the PRE-K program. They learn so much and I have seen the calendar. The teacher has it set up just like elementary school. Our preschool/PRE-K work very hard and my DS had a very bright beginning with the school. He can't wait until PRE-K starts. His preschool/PRE-K is held in a church with a daycare on the top floor but they keep the classrooms separate. Also the preschool/PRE-K teachers do not work in the daycare center. The center has separate employees. We don't utilize the day care my DS is at home with me.

Thank You to ALL the Educators at the very Beginning!
Magalex

 

[Miller1412]

I'm shocked that any other person in education would knock someone's job in pre-k as being babysitting. Education is full of challenges at each and every level and to suggest otherwise is completely ridiculous.

OP...chalk it up to ignorance on the part of people who would say something like that and be smug in knowing the amount of hours and work you put into it.

And by the way...If not for early childhood educators...who exactly would be teaching these kids to write, stand in a line, listen while others are talking, ALL of the stuff that you might just assume kids know before upper grades? That has to be taught somewhere!

 

[Wishing on a star]

Apparantly, PreK can be quite a bit different between different States and Districts...

I know that where I live, PreK is NOT offered at all the public schools, funded by taxpayers dollars... Therefore, PreK teachers are probably not required to have the same experience and credentials... As a matter of fact, when my son was in a Mothers-Day-Out type of PreSchool, the director told me that "While our teachers are referred to as 'Teachers', there is a real rift over this with the official licensed accredited teachers who work in the Public and accredited Private Schools. So, while I agree that this is INCREDIBLY rude of these other two teachers, who have put themselves on a pedestal and made negative pre-judgements about the OP, I can also say that I am NOT suprised!!!

To make a HUGE generalization here, and to just relay my personal experience (no flames please, but I have donned my flame retardant suit!!!) I have found that many teachers are like this... They feel like they are some kind of Teacher-Gods (similar to Doctors having a God complex).

While I have every respect for ALL teachers!!!! I have found that very very few that I have encountered have a reciprocal respect for others. (Remember , just relaying my personal experience here, not passing negative judgements on to anyone!!!)

 

[Blondy876]

You won't be able to change peoples views about what you do. Their opinions are formed already, very much the way your opinion of daycare is formed. It's important but in most peoples mind all you are doing is keeping their child safe and occupied until the kids get picked up. You might be surprised to learn there are many caregivers with degrees that work at childcare centers and are the caregivers for infants and toddlers. Until we all stop viewing early childcare as "babysitting " nothing will change.

I'm so sorry that you got the impression that I didn't think folks working in daycare are important and educated. That's where I started. I only meant that at a daycare, it is more about interaction with the child and stimulating the mind and in preschool there is more emphasis on the 'academic.' I have a high regard for those working in daycare. It's a tough job, especially with infants and toddlers that can't verbalize their needs.

 

[Blondy876]

I teach in what is referred to as an Abbott district. We are state mandated and (therefore)funded. The state supreme court ruled several years ago that children in low income areas have a right to free preschool. I teach in Vineland and every 3 and 4 year old in the Vineland school district has the right to attend an Abbott preschool for free. Regardless of income. If the family makes $400,000 a year or $15,000, if you are in the district you can receive free preschool.

It was when the Abbott mandate when through that being a pre-k teacher became a credentialed job. The state decided (and rightly so) that if it was going to fund this then it wanted it highly trained teachers. I was working with a BA and when the mandate went through I had 1 year to get my P-3 license or lose my job. I and most other teachers in the district did it.

I think that the people that don't see me as a real teacher don't understand what being in a pre-k classroom in 2005 means. Take a day and come by for a visit. I think you'll leave singing another tune.

I am honestly shocked at the amount of support I have received. After the a couple of posts early on I thought this was going to turn into an ugly debate. But it hasn't and I truly appreciate everyone's kind words. I didn't mean for it to be a debate at all, I know that a lot of people see my job as worthless, but I didn't realize how many people don't

Thank you!

 

[D L and K's Mom]

My advice to the women who said those rude and terrible things in the store...IGNORE THEM! I taught Pre-K for 11 years and thne moved to first grade and have been there for 4. Pre-K is such a valuable tool in a child's growth! I loved teaching Pre-K! It is such a hard job to do but so worthwhile. My husband teaches H.S. Soc. Studies and Psych/ Soc and he can't believe I like teaching 1st grade. He said it would drive him nuts. I can't even fathom why he would want to teach 9-12! I would go crazy. That is why I don't do it and it is why he is where he is. God bless you and the work you do. Continue to give those kids the love and learning you are giving them and ignore the people who do not feel what you do is worthwhile.

 

[TDC Nala]

no matter what anyone thinks of somebody else's job, it's freakin' rude to cut down someone you don't even know ten seconds after you meet them in a store line. Jeeeeez.

 

[Nite0wl71]

I just want to say that all our schools have PreK for 4 year olds and 5 year olds who missed the deadline of Sept. 1st. The PreK teachers of the 4 year olds are not simply babysitters. All the kids are tested and the ones who go to PreK are the ones who really need the help, they are below level. They want them to get a good start, some of the kids don't even speak English.

I don't know how long your day is, our PreK teachers each have 2 classes that are 2 1/2 hours long. Our kindergarten is full day.

I am not a teacher, just a parent of 5. When my youngest was 4 I took her to be tested because she was so attached to me I couldn't even leave the room. Needless to say the testing was very thorough. The good and bad news was she wasn't accepted because she was above her level. I took her to the park district pre-school, and while that was good for her it was nothing like PreK.

 

[lovingthemouse]

As a middle school teacher for the past 28 years, I value the contributions that any level teacher makes, we all work so hard to enhance and change the lives of our students. Thanks to you all!!! Caroline

 

[welovedisneyx4]

Blondie876, I want to thank you on behalf of my son's 3 PK teachers this past year. They did so much more than "daycare". Keep up the good work and thanks for staying w/ it so we can have somewhere worthwhile to send our kids!!

 

[DVC Jen]

I am getting ready to start my 10th year teaching 3 yr old preschool. I know exactly what you mean. It is VERY frustrating. Don't let thier ignorance get you down though. Preschool teachers are NOT babysitters. I know it, you know it and any teacher worth her/his weight knows it. Sounds like the ones you were "chatting" with had a superiority complex and could have used a good dose of reality.

 

[Saffron]

... I am amazed at the work current Pre-K teachers do. In a single day, you have shared reading, small group, large group, phonological and phonemic awareness, planning, work and review time (high scope), socialization/ self-help, gross motor...the list goes on. All of this is in accordance to a set curriculum, with required lesson plans, testing and a lot of record keeping. How anyone could consider this a babysitting position amazes me! ...

And that's just part of the list of daily/weekly/monthly requirments for the student/teacher relationship ... then there is work to be done for the school, the state, the parents, the community, furthering our educations, credentials etc. I don't remember doing any of those things when I was "just a babysitter" when I was a teen!

To the OP: Isn't it ironic, that two women who consider themselves educators, are they themselves ignorant of their own profession?!

Teaching preschool IS different than teaching elementary school. And to that I say so? And your point woulllllllllllld beeeee?

Teaching preschool and elementary school is different than teaching junior high which is different than teaching high school, which is different than teaching college or teaching special education, or teaching alternative school, or teaching in a private school, or teaching in a public school, or teaching the blind, or teaching in a facility for incarcerated kids, or teaching in a trade school or teaching in inner cities, or teaching in suburbia, or teaching in rural areas etc, etc. ALL teaching jobs, no matter what level, no matter what setting, should be valued by those who call themselves teachers/educators. Doh! Maybe they cut Eduation 101 a lot.

Ignore them and those like them and be a proud preschool I am!

YAY PRESCHOOL TEACHERS! No matter what, where or why you teach!

Oh! And yay! to other teachers and professions too, just that this thread is about preschool teachers.

 

[meandtheguys2]

Is it b/c you don't think PreK is important? People who attend PreK are far less likely to end up in jail as adults and it costs less to send a child to PreK than it does to house an inmate.

Source? I have never heard such a statistic. It doesn't seem accurate to me, but, of course, I could be wrong. It sounds like one of the made up social statisics to ge grant funding.

OP- No one should be so rude! But, you know, there are ignorant people out there. I is a shame you ran into them!