Why do I teach?

I was asked again today just why I choose teaching as a career. I cannot seem to go at that concisely, so here's the long-play version...

I like teaching. I told classes this week that I truly aspire to be a coach, rather than a teacher, for that seems to me more hands-on, more motivational, and more helpful in terms of skill building. I think of myself more as a facilitator of energy and optimism and language than I do as a conveyor of content. (At least, that's how I'd like to be seen, and how I see myself.)

I choose the Community College for many reasons, but overall, I feel I can be most helpful here. I know what it's like teaching at the University, for I did that for 5 years. Here, at least from my limited perspective, I am able to do more good, and that's what gives me my juice. The community college is more democratic, welcoming everyone with open arms rather than throwing up GPA or $ thresholds. The community college is, and this is key, IN the community, into community, enhancing and building on community. Beautiful synergy when it works.

I think most students (regardless of school) need a shot in the arm of enthusiasm and positive attitude. I am constantly impressed with their creative genius; they too often just fail to see it w/n themselves. That, to me, is what it's all about, inspiring that can-do attitude when it comes to writing.

When I was a kid we played Careers, a game (you guessed it) about employment. There were 3 veins of stuff to keep track of: fame, money and heart. The teaching track, just like real life, was heavy on heart, but not-so-much on the other two. That's just fine with me. I'm not in it for the cash. More important than the money, I have found free time, I've gotten myself a life, in the last few years. Before, I poo-poohed the vacation time, the flexible hours, etc. NOW, I crave every minute of time I can muster, and this job affords me a fair shake.

I am very content at the community college level and I feel that this level of education is going to become more appreciated as time goes by. It is localized, democratic, and user-friendly. It is the place for me.

*Brilliant*
Taylor Mali on "What teacher's make..."