Odds of Hanging On

Odds of Hanging On

According to Forbes, only fifty percent of new teachers last the first five years. Maybe they discovered too late that they dislike children after all. If you're passionate enough and don't suffer a string of discouraging layoffs, you can hang on.

Teaching provides decent job security, but it's all about the pecking order. In other words,you'll need tough skin. If you land continuing contracts and tenure, you'll be in good shape. Sadly, there's always the possibility for job cuts. Since the school board has determined that math is more important than speaking Spanish, your department may be the first to go.

Actually, most schools don't completely cut out the foreign language department, just the teachers who rank lowest on the seniority list. Fortunately, you can probably find a job at another school. Just keep your suitcases packed.