Full Careers

What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting a career in education administration?

Public Comments

1. Most people who go into administration because they have a vision that encompasses an entire school, rather than just a classroom. Unfortunately, they find out that, like steering an oil tanker, you can't change direction that easily. Some are just tired of dealing with kids in the classroom. They find out, however, that they are dealing with the worst kids and the worst parents all day long. Some want to help other teachers teach better, They find out that 1) many (but not all) teachers don't want their help, and 2) there is no time in their day to visit classrooms and help teachers anyway.
2. Advantages: Being able to train new teachers and help more experienced ones. Getting to see the whole picture. Affecting large numbers of students. Higher salaries. Becoming conversant with educational trends. Attending meetings. Disadvantages Long hours Political pressure Short tenure for many Superintendents. Needing to be an expert in many different areas. Unsatisfactory teachers. Tremendous responsibilities. Difficult parents. Recruitment difficulties. Good subordinates leaving. Implementing provisions of various laws such as No Child Left Behind. Attendance at evening meetings.