You know what I don't get... if people hate teachers why are you even watching this video. I mean I have better things to do than to sit around commenting on/watching videos about sh*t I don't care about. If you hate teachers: home school your kids... if you hate this video: don't watch it. PROBLEM SOLVED. Otherwise leave the rest of us alone. I am over ppl sending me crappy comments about how much teachers make and how it is too much or whatever!! IT IS JUST STUPID!! (that is all)
The genius of teachers. "No, you may not do exactly what you'll be expected to do when you become a contributing member of society."
Why not?
Because we're stuck in antiquated methods teaching syllabi that are hopelessly out of date. Oh and because we couldn't actually do the thing that we're teaching.
@naturallyinsouciant Actually, teaching has far progressed from there, at least at the elementary level. Of course, by being stuck in a cliche like you seem to be, its nice to see how far you've progressed in your own outdated sense of judgment.
it's not true that those who cant do, teach. there's a certain level of being a master that u are able to teach. most professionals in a subject simply cant teach. it's a talent that only a few have and it is rare, and it just happens to be the most important talent to keep the world going. I find that i was inspired to go into the subjects where i had the best teachers that understood how to explain at a certain level and inspire the class to see the subject as the teachers see it in their eyes
if your a parent that cares and is active it shouldnt make a difference, we all come from the same place and that it is to educate young minds and make a difference in the world . by the way very little tax dollars that actually go to the schools we as a nation pay WAY more in prisons then in education...maybe if we did we wont need so many prisons, and im not talking teacher pay i am talking about more teachers and better reasources
and yes we have time off nothing to really sneaze at BUT good teacher dont start teaching when the morning bell ring nor do we stop when the last bell rings, we work hard to let every kid know that they are amazing and that we have faith in them, this is in public and private schools neither one is different except that one is private and one is public,
got love this poem it is awesome... although i am a little disturbed by some of the comments, the truth is its not easy to be a teacher, and yes we get paid but not great, but we understand that TEACHING HAS NEVER AND WILL NEVER BE HIGH PAYING JOB, but thats OK u know this going in..
The most ironic thing: If this man showed the same kind of attitude while he was in a teacher prep progam, the professors would find a way to fail him with their subjective grading practices.
Also being a teacher isn't easy work, you have to build a corriculum, grade papers, homework, and tests inside and outside of class, and you have to deal with people who sometimes don't want to learn about what your teaching.
Umm, actually teachers often do have to buy their own supplies, especially if they're k-8. I have teachers who work at the college I attend to need two jobs to pay their bills. Seriously, teachers are underpaid.
As I read these comments I love how most ppl completely missed the point. It wasn't to say anything about Lawyers... It was about promoting the fact that teachers do more then just teach a subject and that we spend 8 hours a day with students changing their lives (good or bad) and yet get no respect.
I am also amaze at how people assume teaching is so easy but have never actually taught a day in their lives. You just don't get it unless you experience it.
This gives me shivers and chills when I watch it over and over again and again, I love it, and whenever I get a chance, I share it with other friends and teachers of mine. I've been really blessed to have some amazing kick-ass teachers who have really driven me to what I am today. Teachers are some of the most important, and least appreciated jobs today, which is a crying shame because they mean so much. One great teacher can be the change of a butterfly's wings that make all the difference
I've just watched this so many times. I'm a senior in high school about to go to college as an English major, though the only way I was able to choose that major was to convince my parents I could go to law school after. THough, this quite possibly has inspired me to become a teacher after all.
I am a music teacher and with all the cuts have found it difficult to find full time work. I teach 3 days a week but put in as much extra UNPAID time as if I was working full time. I've also heard the "it's just music class" comments saying what I do is unimportant yet have had students in the past who would not have made it through school without the arts. The majority of teachers I had growing up were excellent. My 11th grade English teacher wrote a test prep book the year she was retiring ra
Not all lawyers are caustic...and not all teachers are lethargic.
I had one or two great teachers in my educational background and they did make all of the difference. Speak to a satisfied client and they just might tell you the exact same thing about their lawyer. That they care, that they are passionate and that they are with them for the long haul. Lisa Beth Older, New York Divorce Lawyer.
@TheTiffany2009able haha don't focus on that side of the poem.. he is not trying to berate lawyers, he is trying to praise teachers ;) have a nice one Lisa Beth Older :)
@TheTiffany2009able He was trying to make a point. The lawyer guy said all the stereotypes were true about teachers. While he was saying its also true about lawyers, thats all.
Just like with any profession.. doctors, dentists, lawyers, restaurant owners, builders, real estate agents, electricians.. you are going to find some that are not passionate about their jobs and don't perform up to high standards. As a passionate teacher that makes a difference in the lives of young people, I know that the same holds true for the teaching profession. Please don't scrutinize us all! We don't classify all doctors as bad doctors even though we know they exist!
March 25th, 2011 - In recognition and support for your children's teachers, I'm asking you do a small thing. Send your child to school with an apple for each teacher your child agree's they would like to give one to.
Won't you please join me if you think you would like to do the same? If you don't have children and like the idea, please **share the movement** with your friends that do. Thanks!
There aren't enough good teachers out there and most good teachers know that is true. Too many teachers drank their way through college and then at 23 years old, had an uncle on the school board who walked them into a classroom and a cushy union job where tenure comes easily and due process is the real reason bad teachers survive. That kind of teacher doesn't gete why the country is bashing teachers. They aren't bashing the good ones, intentionally. Kudos to the best, middle finger to the rest.
This poem makes me cry every single time I watch it. I wish more people appreciated teachers, and more teachers were like Taylor. Thank you for bringing such beauty, love and compassion into our world!
This is a great poem, but it's not even close to his best rendition. If you guys wanna see Taylor Mali at his best check out the video jacklefttown put up. That will make you cry. God bless Taylor Mali
You sound very passionate about teaching but it seems like you are a dictator techer... I think I would hate you... But really look back with good memories on your class.
WOW! I wish you were one of my teachers. Through much of my life I squeezed by doing as little as it took to get decent grades, but there were a few people in my life who inspired me to be better, to give the A work instead of the A- work. I recently discovered that now I somehow have to do the inspiring on my own, and that doing as little as possible doesn't get me anywhere.
In all honesty, I've never had that many terrible teachers. But at the same time, I've never had a teacher that was able to do all the things Mali described here >_>
THIS is why I am becoming a teacher. Inspirational moments are the life blood for good teachers, and this was an inspirational moment for me that made me walk into my advisors office the next day, and change my degree to Education. I have never felt so connected and confident about anything than I do inside my classrooms. Thank you Mr. Mali.
THIS is why I am becoming a teacher. Inspirational moments are the life blood for good teachers, and this was an inspirational moment for me that made me walk into my advisors office the next day, and change my degree to Education. I have never felt so connected and confident about anything than I do inside my classrooms. Thank you Mr. Mali.
THIS is why I am becoming a teacher. Inspirational moments are the life blood for good teachers, and this was an inspirational moment for me that made me walk into my advisors office the next day, and change my degree to Education. I have never felt so connected and confident about anything than I do inside my classrooms. Thank you Mr. Mali.
I think I Love You Mr. Mali. A student of mine sent your poem to me via email and I thought it was so moving that he thought I deserved such an accolade. Thanks for writing it; now I'm teaching it in the spoken word segment of my Intro to Lit course. Happy New Year Brother!!; and thanks. . .
Well, non math or science teachers make too damn much, generally speaking. That is, prorated, out of college, about twice as much as a soldier or a security guard or a baker. About the same as biologists, accountants, lawyers, or firefighters. Just a bit less than chemists or engineers. Plus a platinum retirement plan, and the rare ability to never get fired. Damn good deal, I think. They need to do with less, everyone else is hurting, why not them?
@FieldMarshalB A. Math and science teachers generally make more and have an easier time finding jobs than non math or science teachers. B. Soldiers, security guards and bakers are all low-wage jobs. Baking only requires a degree if you're a high-end baker. C. Where do you get your "prorated, out of college" figures? And do they factor in the cost of buying supplies for students, out-of-pocket book expenses, etc? Show your work, because I sense some fuzzy math.
Good thing this God everyone is talking about doesn't god damn fucking exist or else he would be pretty pissed about all of this taking his name in vain.
Come on, you all. Drop all the silly comparisons--soldiers vs. teachers, etc.--and look at this for what it is: a good poem with an inspiring message, well delivered. And as far as "using the lord's name in vain"--the problem is yours. I think in context the lord wouldn't have any problem with this.
Personally I think that Soldiers make a lot more difference than teachers but since you can't see what it would be like without them they don't get near enough credit for what they do and what they sacrifice to do it. Teachers rank way above lawyers in my book but just not anywhere near soldiers.
@ken345a and who taught the soldiers? to read and write? maybe they do make more of a difference than teachers but teachers are the foundation of any country or institution they sacrifice there own greatness for someone else's...
I would have "Liked" if he would not have used my Lord's name in vain. I was going to share the link to my facebook until I heard that. Other than that, great job.
Wow...what an absolute control freak!!!! I feel bad for his students--constantly being manipulated and coerced. At least they will make good cogs in the wheel of the economy. Oh, and just because you teach doesn't mean they learn! Forget about thinking for themselves. Sheeeesh.
@vtstofmind Did you over look the part where he made his kids think, question, and criticize? That's what's known as 'thinking for yourself.'
And having high standards for children's minds and challenging them to improve themselves is a shit-ton better than this passive 'everybody is special' bullshit.
@vtstofmind Ummm. Ever had a teacher who opened your eyes to a world you never knew existed? Have you ever needed guidance to navigate Shakespeare, Nietzsche, or Camus? If not then great, you are brilliant. However, based on your moronic statement, you have little value for true free thinking and an intellect to match.....in fact, you really don't understand what I refer to now. You are probably shaking your dumb head thinking to yourself that it is really obvious. Again, you are wrong.
I have had teachers who made the history books come to life the words of Shakespeare echo in my ears and feel my soul move as they speak the words of those long dead. I have seen teachers able to answer a question with a answer of "Open your book to page 346 second paragraph 2 third line" without touching their book. But I have also seen teachers who entered the filled so they will be seen as 'noble' no. The profession isnt noble it is the teachers who make the child want to grow who are noble.
@vtstofmind You are really not thinking this though. Do you realize you argue against the noblest profession? Teaching has rewards,but most are not financial. So, fire away...
@Icannottolerateit be a teacher than... because i can guarantee you have no idea what they do just to get by the day...and they spend most of that money on your last statement on their "kids" because every school has a budget and still want test scores to be higher than last year...and i know you don't know how they put their own families second and how when they come home they work on school wok for their "kids"... and its all for one thing when a kid smiles and says i get it now...
Investment bankers look down on lawyers, lawyers look down on teachers and teachers look down on anyone working a "menial" job.
To pretend teachers are on some moral high ground above this kind of thing is rather silly.
So you "chose" to receive less pay to have a job with "meaning"? Such a burden you brought onto yourself...You know, since teachers in America still have a salary in at least the 90th percentile. What is like to suffer so much and sacrifice so much? *sigh*
@Icannottolerateit You are really not thinking this though. Do you realize you argue against the noblest profession? Teaching has rewards,but most are not financial. So, fire away...
Respond to this video... You are really not thinking this though. Do you realize you argue against the noblest profession? Teaching has rewards,but most are not financial. So, fire away...
I like this guy. I wish he had been my teacher. I'm a teacher too, but not a school teacher. I've always been one. I've always been explaining things to people who didn't understand them, helping people do things a little better, showing people the "other side" of things. When I was younger, I did it too much and w/too much force. Now I only do it now when I'm paid to do it or it feels right or both. If teaching is your calling, you can't help but do it. Bad teachers just have the wrong job...
I really wish he hadn't said GD at the end of this. I really wanted to show this to my mother, a kindergarten teacher, but I know the GD would really bother her. He was doing so well until then, but then he used that word unwisely. Yes, I realize one might say I'm missing his point here, but as a teacher he should think about the words he uses and the point that he makes. Does he honestly think the difference he makes has been damned by God?
You may not know this, but teachers DO NOT get paid for vacation time. Their salary is mearly divided out over the whole year. How would like to finish working for your salary year in May, but not get all of your money until the end of August? No, teachers do NOT make alot.
@pamm777 Personally, yes, if I was paid over $40,000 dollars a year but only had to work for nine months, I'd be ecstatic! Stop complaining because, unless you teach in a high-crime area, you don't have nearly the amount of stress as other professions and don't have to work as many total hours.
@dubya68 You're kidding, right? Teaching is a VERY tough job and takes a VERY special and talented person to do it. Please do not make assumptions about something you obviously know nothing about. Teachers don't get to quit at 3pm when school gets out, they have TONS of other work and preparations to do. A teacher's job is never-ending.
@xtina221 No, a teacher's job varies from teacher to teacher. Some do have a never-ending job but others are lazy. Teacher's unions need to stop appeasing to every teacher and teachers need to be held responsible. Good teachers can keep their benefits and deserve it, but teachers who treat the benefits like welfare need to be fired.
@dubya68 I'm not arguing that. You're absolutely right. There are some terrible teachers out there, but not all of them. And your comment can go along with ANY profession, not just teachers.
@xtina221 I agree, the problem is unions. Just going to NJ we had to get a battery changed and it took us 40 minutes. IMO a free market school system would end up better because the school with the best education for the best prices would succeed but wouldn't be able to become complacent. Hell if it was free market then the schools with the best benefits would have a line of teachers out the door (applying) and would be forced to take the best of the best.
Sorry to burst your bubble, but in a study that was done it was shown that while the average worker works 2000 hours a year (40hrs/wk x 50, allowing for 2 weeks of vacation) teachers work 2040 hrs on average in a 9 1/2 - 10 month period of time.
The average teacher currently lasts 5 yrs in the profession. The reasons for this:
lack of appropriate pay and STRESS. Unless you have been there, you have no idea.
@pamm777 My problem is the socialistic/welfare resemblance of the teacher's jobs. Piss-poor teachers are making the same if not more with greater benefits than the truly good teachers who kick ass in their job. Teachers will not get fired unless they screw up big time. The stress is terrible, but hey, if they were allowed to discipline the students (not abuse of course) then it would be less of a problem.
In 37 years. I could count on one hand the number of "piss poor" teachers I have worked with. When did you start evaluating teachers? What grade were you in? I've seen negative comments on facebook about teachers I worked with whom I know were outstanding teachers. Students don't always have all the information. Why do you want to trash one of the noblest profession of all, because you believe you had a few bad teachers? Even if you did, that's no excuse.
@pamm777 It's no excuse for teachers to ruin the school system with their demands claiming they should be making more more MORE MORE. All anyone hears from the unions, is more more more more. We get it teachers have a hard job, so do construction workers, truck drivers, soldiers, etc, and nobody hears them complaining. (at least to the level of teachers)
@dubya68 So you are comparing teachers to truck drivers, construction workers, and soldiers? Seriously? I have nothing but respect for the people who do those jobs. But, teaching is a profession. I figured out that for the salary I made last year, which was near the top, I made $31.86/hr. The plumber who just fixed my sink makes $85. I'd hate to think what I would have made without my union.
@pamm777 Plumbers don't have a steady income with added pensions and benefits. That's why he makes $85 an hour and you make $31.86. In plumbing (unless he is working for a company) you have to pay for tools/gas/business expenses daily just to get the job done. Teachers (if their school is heavily funded) don't have daily expenses other than the gas for their car. Plus, teachers also have what is only dreamed of in other professions: job security.
@dubya68 Really we ought to end this right now. In my school district, teachers spend, on average, $1500 out of their own pockets to fund their jobs. In what other PROFESSION does this happen? And as for job security, guess you haven't been keeping up with the news and the massive teacher lay offs across the country. I get that you think you know alot about my profession, but really you do not.
@pamm777 40,000 minus 1,500 equals 38,500, which is still an extremely good salary considering pensions. The layoffs are for a reason, teachers (as a whole) get so much taxpayer money, that in a bad economy (you know, when the government can't just pull money out of its ass) they and other government workers are getting laid off.
@dubya68 The point is, again, in what other profession is everything you need to do your job not provided for you, so you don't have to spend your own money? I can't help but wonder what you do for a living. This will be my last communication with you, as some other people have jumped in. You need to get over your resentment of teachers and move on.
@marionettejump What? I don't understand, you don't have a life threatening job (just one that requires some leadership skills), you have months off every year, you get a paid pension once you retire, you won't get fired unless you break some law, you get to meet lots of people and hear their stories, it just sounds like you get a good deal out of the whole thing and don't have that much room to complain about it.
@dubya68 Ok let me clarify since apparently you've never taught. I'll break it down point by point:
1- We don't have a life threatening job: Really? Tell that to the teachers at Columbine, the professors at Virginia Tech or any other teacher who has had to lock down their building, break up a fight or sit in a staff meeting listening to why several students are expelled for having weapons in their possession on school grounds.
2- We get months off every year: Do you know what we do with those "months off"? Buy supplies, write lesson plans, develop curriculum to challenge the kids even more next year, attend conferences, clean and set-up our classrooms, tutor, teach summer school and volunteer. I count time off as time when I do nothing related to school. So far in my career I have never had a "day off"
@skautz14 Cleaning and making lesson plans takes a month at most. Are you making a strict lesson plan for each and every day or a general lesson plan that's flexible? Tutoring and summer school should be extra income and if it isn't then that's a huge problem.
3- Pension: True, but compared to what we made while teaching, it is about time for a reward aside from knowing we make a difference.
4- We won't get fired: Perhaps not but we will get laid off, shuffled to new schools to meet budget demands, have to travel from room to room because they can't afford to give everyone a permanent classroom and with recent legislation your ability to be "let go" or "fired" increases if kids aren't meeting standards.
@skautz14 If kids aren't meeting standards isn't that grounds for getting fired? If a construction worker builds a house that's low quality then he should be fired. If you think it's a problem for you to be fired for not getting your job done then you are living in la-la land.
@dubya68 Sorry. Just couldn't pass this one by. A construction worker gets to send back defective parts. We teach which ever students are placed in our classes. We can't control their home life, which plays a hugh part in how successful they are in school. We do work our asses off to help students overcome if they are in a bad situation. Sometimes we can help, but it's very difficult.
@pamm777 And, btw, we CAN get fired. Not all states have tenure or even collective bargaining. If someone is a bad teacher, because, let's face it, not everyone can make it as a teacher, a principal should know long before the standardized test. So if you've truly had a bad teacher, blame a principal.
@1442michael No, but when a person isn't doing their job then they should be fired. People are gonna die/do bad in school/commit crimes, but lazy people in these professions should be held accountable. Anyways the free market would solve this problem in a year or two. And the (eventual) downfall of teacher's unions.
@dubya68 And finally, the meeting people. You are correct, I meet loads of wonderful children and parents every day. I also meet kids whose stories break my heart. Who I worry about from the second they leave my room until I see them at their locker the next morning. I meet kids who will become a statistic no matter how hard I try and I meet parents who don't deserve to be one. I am a mother, a father, a teacher, a counselor, a friend, a shoulder to cry on and everything else in between.
@dubya68 How are teachers ruining the school systems exactly?? We make half of what other professionals make. Alot of times we have to buy supplies, posters, books, decorations, and etc, the list goes on of the things we need but the school can't provide because there is no more money for it. So we take money out of our pockets, away from our families, in order to teach your kids. I am sure you don't ask for a raise in your job or request compensation if you pay for something work related.
@Danigurlks Maybe you should find a different job if you can't feed your family. And no, I don't pay for anything work related because my employer is responsible enough to get all costs covered all while not using the threat of force to get people to hand over their money.
@dubya68 I am not sure where you saw that I put that I couldn't feed my family but okay. I love my job and I am not sure where my school is threatening others our of their money. I didn't realize we had that much power to force you to hand over your money but I am just a selfish money hungry teacher so what do I know. In any case. My only suggestion to you is to home school your children so we don't ruin them and maybe even run for office so you can SAVE THE NATION from teachers like me.
@Danigurlks When you say that the money is "out of our pockets, away from our families," then you're implying that it is seriously hurting your family. And if I don't pay my taxes, then men with guns come to my house to arrest me. No, I'll just send my children to a private school that doesn't teach them to buckle to authority or blindly follow people. Sorry that I don't agree with paying you more than 50-90k a year plus benefits.
@Danigurlks This is the biggest lie in the world. Teachers make fair market value or above; at least that is the case in California. Look at the average annual salaries and compare that to other professional positions and you will see it is right at or above the market average. I am a buyer, I make 52K a year. My brother makes 56K as a teacher. I work at least 50 hours a week, so does he. Plus, he gets his student loans forgiven, I do not. who has the better deal?
@pamm777 He isn't trashing the profession at all!!! I suggest you LISTEN to what the man is saying. & For everyone "likes" the above comment, you all should LISTEN and interpret this deliverance.
@pamm777 I don't think he was trashing teachers at all. If you have that point of view, then perhaps you should evaluate YOUR performance, as a teacher. Everything I have heard from Mali has endorsed teaching and the rewards he has experienced as a member of one of the most noble of all professions. After all, Shakespeare, a poet of sorts, wrote about killing lawyers.
Amen. And I'd be willing to bet that a lot of those "piss poor" teachers were once passionate about teaching, but the thankless, degrading monotony that they're subjected to on a daily basis just kills it for them.
You may not know this, but teachers DO NOT get paid for vacation time. Their salary is just divided out over the whole year. How would like to finish working for your salary year in May, but not get all of your money until the end of August? No, teachers do NOT make alot.
@LoneHero2 Pretty certain "this guy" knew what the lawyer meant when asking what he made, but as I think most teachers would agree, salary is not nearly as important as what they make happen in the classroom. It helps make the point that money is not all that matters.
@juliahilliker Teachers look down on those just like anyone in any other profession.
Just because you happen to be a teacher does not make you exempt from this kind of thing. Teachers will continue to look down on janitors in the same way doctors will look down on teachers....
At the end of the day a janitor could easily make a larger difference than any teacher on the planet if he decided to sacrifice everything for the needy. Teachers just sacrifice some pay cuts?
@Icannottolerateit "Teachers will continue to look down on janitors in the same way doctors will look down on teachers." Are you kidding me? And one who teaches knows that the most important people in any school are the administrative secretary and the head janitor. Janitors make the world go around - literally. They get shit fixed, they get shit done. I don't care if the guy never went to college - if he works hard he deserves my respect.
@vjamora So you just said it yourself, "if he works hard he deserves my respect" and I agree with you. Work ethic is more important than occupation. A lazy president is something to be loathed but a truly hardworking janitor is something to behold.
Virtue, virtue, virtue! This is what must precede all else! I am not faulting teaching, it is and can be one of the most noble occupations, but I am faulting people in general. Just becoming a teacher means little, that is all I meant.
@Icannottolerateit You assume too much. You superimpose your own egotistical objectivism upon others. This exposes not only your mediocrity, but also your stupidity.
@seifertchad I assume most people take their professions far more seriously than the virtues themselves required to "make a difference".
Teachers are not some unique breed of human who are naturally sacrificial and virtuous.
He had the right to defend his occupation so I am not faulting him for that, I fault him for his "difference" statement which is the foundation of his argument.
To put it bluntly, a carpenter can have a greater positive influence....
@seifertchad You would find fault in me for speaking English to a person who happens to speak only German in my home town where everyone speaks English. You assume that assuming is awful, then proceed to do it!
You insult too much and assume you have exposed something.
Besides, the greatest teachers are those who are themselves the lesson to be learned. A person in the teaching profession can indeed be that, but rarely.
@Icannottolerateit I think if someone is going to look down on another person, they are going to do it regardless of their job. Anyone can make a difference, if they take or make the opportunity to do so. All I was saying is that it's not about the money. If you knew anything about what Taylor Mali is about, you would already know this.
@juliahilliker I said nothing to disagree with your statement. Regardless I would not look to Taylor Mali as some sort of spiritual guide, even if what he said regarding this were in any way original.
@Icannottolerateit I think if someone is going to look down on another person, they are going to do it regardless of their job. Anyone can make a difference, if they take or make the opportunity to do so. All I was saying is that it's not about the money. If you knew anything about what Taylor Mali is about, you would already know this.
I am graduating soon with a degree in Elementary Education and this gives me hope that some people still understand the struggles. Every day when I see my students it makes my day better because I know that they look up to me and I know that I will somehow enhance their day as well. I am going into teaching because that's what I LOVE. I hope to make it so that tests are not the be all end all and that grades are nothing more than a letter. I WILL make a difference, no matter what anyone says.
It's the end of a VERY long term (11 weeks) of teaching 7 year olds, and I'm looking into 2 weeks of vacation, knowing that despite the amount of work I have, despite the fact that I'm loving the idea of NOT having to get up at 6am.... I'll get bored, because I LOVE being in the classroom, and I love seeing my kids faces when they find out something they never knew before.So, thank you for further inspiring me.
Teachers, Nowadays, are just sick, and pompous, who haven't done anything and fall on that bullshit lousy excuse "I wanna make a difference" lmao...come on.
@AlexTheMusicPhene you need to watch the movie "stand and deliever", awesome movie based on a true story about a teacher who made a difference. There are actually good teachers out there who want to make a difference. I've had a lot of good teachers who changed me for the best and be a better person.
Aristotle was right tho.....those that can do...do...those that can't...teach.....teachers are merely a bunch of egotistical, loathsome low life's. Why can't this dude be a writer instead? O, he wants to "help out the kids".....the kids don't give a fuck about you..Write the books, don't read and recite them for others like a fucking idiot.
@AlexTheMusicPhene Because if it wasn't for teachers, no one would know who Aristotle was today. Yes, some teachers are just there for the pay check. But some do actually make a difference. Teachers worth their salt aren't there to teach kids all the inner workings of symbiosis, or trigonometry, or the difference of prose and verse. They are there to teach them how to learn, plant the seed, and allow it to grow.
that's funny tho, Aristotle was a thinker and observer, his word spread because it was true, we teach each other regardless, you learn something new everyday. Sure they help little kids and all that, but with a grade system, learning is out of the picture, so its a game with em'. So you really think a kid gives a shit? I'm 19 and I attend UCLA, and even NOW, the majority thinks about just passing, and not learning from their "teachers".
@AlexTheMusicPhene I know most kids don't give a shit now, but I went to college as well (Sacramento State). It took me years to realize how important some of the good teachers were for me. Grade school, High school, and college years alike.
*______________________* He's sooo awesome
Quatrevingtdixsept 4 days ago
Taylor Mali: LIKE A BOSS!
Kzzori 5 days ago
Omg this reminds me of a couple of my high school teachers. They were the best
striferoy 3 weeks ago
You know what I don't get... if people hate teachers why are you even watching this video. I mean I have better things to do than to sit around commenting on/watching videos about sh*t I don't care about. If you hate teachers: home school your kids... if you hate this video: don't watch it. PROBLEM SOLVED. Otherwise leave the rest of us alone. I am over ppl sending me crappy comments about how much teachers make and how it is too much or whatever!! IT IS JUST STUPID!! (that is all)
Danigurlks 1 month ago 5
AWESOME!
uniteordie1 2 months ago
watched this for intro to Lit.
-Anthony Moran
amora433 2 months ago in playlist Intro2Lit-Fall 2011
I watched this for lit. Todd Dawson
tdaws1 2 months ago
I watched this for Intro to Lit.
Casey Behrendt
13Socker 2 months ago in playlist Intro2Lit-Fall 2011
I watched the videos for Intro to lit.
Amanda Mease
amease1000 2 months ago in playlist Intro2Lit-Fall 2011
we need more teachers like you!!!
sigridmac09 2 months ago
Is this published?
westscarlet 2 months ago
"No, you may not work in groups"
The genius of teachers. "No, you may not do exactly what you'll be expected to do when you become a contributing member of society."
Why not?
Because we're stuck in antiquated methods teaching syllabi that are hopelessly out of date. Oh and because we couldn't actually do the thing that we're teaching.
naturallyinsouciant 2 months ago
@naturallyinsouciant Actually, teaching has far progressed from there, at least at the elementary level. Of course, by being stuck in a cliche like you seem to be, its nice to see how far you've progressed in your own outdated sense of judgment.
swizzlestiks 2 months ago
it's not true that those who cant do, teach. there's a certain level of being a master that u are able to teach. most professionals in a subject simply cant teach. it's a talent that only a few have and it is rare, and it just happens to be the most important talent to keep the world going. I find that i was inspired to go into the subjects where i had the best teachers that understood how to explain at a certain level and inspire the class to see the subject as the teachers see it in their eyes
JFrameMan 2 months ago
If only all teachers were like him.
ibaneziceman2007 2 months ago
if your a parent that cares and is active it shouldnt make a difference, we all come from the same place and that it is to educate young minds and make a difference in the world . by the way very little tax dollars that actually go to the schools we as a nation pay WAY more in prisons then in education...maybe if we did we wont need so many prisons, and im not talking teacher pay i am talking about more teachers and better reasources
jetc97 3 months ago
and yes we have time off nothing to really sneaze at BUT good teacher dont start teaching when the morning bell ring nor do we stop when the last bell rings, we work hard to let every kid know that they are amazing and that we have faith in them, this is in public and private schools neither one is different except that one is private and one is public,
jetc97 3 months ago
got love this poem it is awesome... although i am a little disturbed by some of the comments, the truth is its not easy to be a teacher, and yes we get paid but not great, but we understand that TEACHING HAS NEVER AND WILL NEVER BE HIGH PAYING JOB, but thats OK u know this going in..
jetc97 3 months ago
The most ironic thing: If this man showed the same kind of attitude while he was in a teacher prep progam, the professors would find a way to fail him with their subjective grading practices.
schroeder8911 3 months ago
I thought this was a black guy when I just heard the voice...
SpartanCXVII 4 months ago
Also being a teacher isn't easy work, you have to build a corriculum, grade papers, homework, and tests inside and outside of class, and you have to deal with people who sometimes don't want to learn about what your teaching.
kaid115 4 months ago 3
Umm, actually teachers often do have to buy their own supplies, especially if they're k-8. I have teachers who work at the college I attend to need two jobs to pay their bills. Seriously, teachers are underpaid.
kaid115 4 months ago 3
As I read these comments I love how most ppl completely missed the point. It wasn't to say anything about Lawyers... It was about promoting the fact that teachers do more then just teach a subject and that we spend 8 hours a day with students changing their lives (good or bad) and yet get no respect.
I am also amaze at how people assume teaching is so easy but have never actually taught a day in their lives. You just don't get it unless you experience it.
Danigurlks 4 months ago
Lawyers...You've just been lawyered.
ProjectVignette 4 months ago
he reminds me of jim carrey :D
IDPgen2011 5 months ago 2
what a beautiful poem. and the last two lines are so moving! <3
snooze2010 5 months ago in playlist Taylor Mali
whenever i have second thoughts about my path to become a teacher, i listen to this :D
Kzzori 6 months ago 4
He's coasting. Enough said.
grifkiller 6 months ago
19 lawyers saw this...
TappyToes123 7 months ago 9
Mr. Mali: you, your words, and all the badass teachers of the world are definitely beautiful. Thank you for sharing with us.
shutupsilentjim 7 months ago 9
his poetry is...well poetic....thats all there is to it.
cadenprice 7 months ago
Yes.
ToxicPopsicle 7 months ago
This is my absolute favourite performance of this poem - Taylor Mali is such a BAMF.
rathermisplaced 8 months ago
love to you brother
gralisk 8 months ago
This gives me shivers and chills when I watch it over and over again and again, I love it, and whenever I get a chance, I share it with other friends and teachers of mine. I've been really blessed to have some amazing kick-ass teachers who have really driven me to what I am today. Teachers are some of the most important, and least appreciated jobs today, which is a crying shame because they mean so much. One great teacher can be the change of a butterfly's wings that make all the difference
NinjaRedLink 8 months ago 2
I've just watched this so many times. I'm a senior in high school about to go to college as an English major, though the only way I was able to choose that major was to convince my parents I could go to law school after. THough, this quite possibly has inspired me to become a teacher after all.
SnakeEmpressX 9 months ago 5
my ultimate goal is to see you perform!
MDeezification 9 months ago
holly shit.. this is a great poem!!! made me feeeeeel!
Mikel526 10 months ago
I am a music teacher and with all the cuts have found it difficult to find full time work. I teach 3 days a week but put in as much extra UNPAID time as if I was working full time. I've also heard the "it's just music class" comments saying what I do is unimportant yet have had students in the past who would not have made it through school without the arts. The majority of teachers I had growing up were excellent. My 11th grade English teacher wrote a test prep book the year she was retiring ra
musick114 10 months ago 2
This was superb. Thank you thank you thank you!
jennifermcp 10 months ago
Lawyers can make a difference too.
Not all lawyers are caustic...and not all teachers are lethargic.
I had one or two great teachers in my educational background and they did make all of the difference. Speak to a satisfied client and they just might tell you the exact same thing about their lawyer. That they care, that they are passionate and that they are with them for the long haul. Lisa Beth Older, New York Divorce Lawyer.
TheTiffany2009able 10 months ago
@TheTiffany2009able haha don't focus on that side of the poem.. he is not trying to berate lawyers, he is trying to praise teachers ;) have a nice one Lisa Beth Older :)
Mikel526 10 months ago
@TheTiffany2009able He was trying to make a point. The lawyer guy said all the stereotypes were true about teachers. While he was saying its also true about lawyers, thats all.
MadHaTTe1992 9 months ago
Brilliant.
thetrudztube 10 months ago
17 lawyers saw this...
Myggenet 10 months ago 70
@Myggenet 20 now
albochick411 1 week ago
The lawyer "makes" more because he's dealing with people that he can't just yell at to get them to step into line.
snuffleguff 10 months ago
@snuffleguff
Yeah, I tried yelling. That only works if their parents yell at home:) It is a little more complicated...
4thelordlove 10 months ago
Just like with any profession.. doctors, dentists, lawyers, restaurant owners, builders, real estate agents, electricians.. you are going to find some that are not passionate about their jobs and don't perform up to high standards. As a passionate teacher that makes a difference in the lives of young people, I know that the same holds true for the teaching profession. Please don't scrutinize us all! We don't classify all doctors as bad doctors even though we know they exist!
earthykrnchygyrl 10 months ago
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Won't you please join me if you think you would like to do the same? If you don't have children and like the idea, please **share the movement** with your friends that do. Thanks!
seeit360 10 months ago
There aren't enough good teachers out there and most good teachers know that is true. Too many teachers drank their way through college and then at 23 years old, had an uncle on the school board who walked them into a classroom and a cushy union job where tenure comes easily and due process is the real reason bad teachers survive. That kind of teacher doesn't gete why the country is bashing teachers. They aren't bashing the good ones, intentionally. Kudos to the best, middle finger to the rest.
Captain1234ish 10 months ago
I have always loved this but I think it's even more poignant in light of what's going on right now. Enjoy, fellow educators!
Cincyks 11 months ago 52
Awesome!! I have taught in various ways.. And I, too have made people cry. Not for being mean, but for expecting MORE!
Why does that always make them cry?
Money is not everything. The payoff is the ahhhhaaa moments you see in a students face. PRICELESS!
God bless! AND CONTINUE TO MAKE.
EzraAbu 11 months ago
This poem makes me cry every single time I watch it. I wish more people appreciated teachers, and more teachers were like Taylor. Thank you for bringing such beauty, love and compassion into our world!
onyxbluefeather 11 months ago 5
Taylor Mali, I would have loved to have you as my teacher! Keep inspiring the next generation! Great poetry! :-)
spiritualcat 11 months ago 3
This is a great poem!
Vazzivazzi 11 months ago
This is a great poem, but it's not even close to his best rendition. If you guys wanna see Taylor Mali at his best check out the video jacklefttown put up. That will make you cry. God bless Taylor Mali
theirishcanadian 11 months ago
You sound very passionate about teaching but it seems like you are a dictator techer... I think I would hate you... But really look back with good memories on your class.
WeAreColdMalt 1 year ago
WOW! I wish you were one of my teachers. Through much of my life I squeezed by doing as little as it took to get decent grades, but there were a few people in my life who inspired me to be better, to give the A work instead of the A- work. I recently discovered that now I somehow have to do the inspiring on my own, and that doing as little as possible doesn't get me anywhere.
calebd87 1 year ago
In all honesty, I've never had that many terrible teachers. But at the same time, I've never had a teacher that was able to do all the things Mali described here >_>
TheAsianOptimist 1 year ago
THIS is why I am becoming a teacher. Inspirational moments are the life blood for good teachers, and this was an inspirational moment for me that made me walk into my advisors office the next day, and change my degree to Education. I have never felt so connected and confident about anything than I do inside my classrooms. Thank you Mr. Mali.
AlyxWeller 1 year ago 3
This has been flagged as spam show
THIS is why I am becoming a teacher. Inspirational moments are the life blood for good teachers, and this was an inspirational moment for me that made me walk into my advisors office the next day, and change my degree to Education. I have never felt so connected and confident about anything than I do inside my classrooms. Thank you Mr. Mali.
AlyxWeller 1 year ago
THIS is why I am becoming a teacher. Inspirational moments are the life blood for good teachers, and this was an inspirational moment for me that made me walk into my advisors office the next day, and change my degree to Education. I have never felt so connected and confident about anything than I do inside my classrooms. Thank you Mr. Mali.
AlyxWeller 1 year ago
I am inspired every time I watch this video. I can't wait to make even the smallest difference in a student's life.
JamaicanBratt 1 year ago
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honsusando 1 year ago
I think I Love You Mr. Mali. A student of mine sent your poem to me via email and I thought it was so moving that he thought I deserved such an accolade. Thanks for writing it; now I'm teaching it in the spoken word segment of my Intro to Lit course. Happy New Year Brother!!; and thanks. . .
EllesiaBlaque 1 year ago
Hell no! Wait really?! Billy Collins?! What?!
swimmeroa11 1 year ago
That's Billy Collins sitting right there
embejoetc1 1 year ago
Well, non math or science teachers make too damn much, generally speaking. That is, prorated, out of college, about twice as much as a soldier or a security guard or a baker. About the same as biologists, accountants, lawyers, or firefighters. Just a bit less than chemists or engineers. Plus a platinum retirement plan, and the rare ability to never get fired. Damn good deal, I think. They need to do with less, everyone else is hurting, why not them?
FieldMarshalB 1 year ago
@FieldMarshalB Because without teachers we wouldn't have college, chemist, engineers, firefighters or accountants.
Snapplemonkey 1 year ago
@FieldMarshalB Because without teachers we wouldn't have college, chemist, engineers, firefighters or accountants.
Snapplemonkey 1 year ago
@FieldMarshalB A. Math and science teachers generally make more and have an easier time finding jobs than non math or science teachers. B. Soldiers, security guards and bakers are all low-wage jobs. Baking only requires a degree if you're a high-end baker. C. Where do you get your "prorated, out of college" figures? And do they factor in the cost of buying supplies for students, out-of-pocket book expenses, etc? Show your work, because I sense some fuzzy math.
aggrajag2813 1 year ago
Comment removed
peapodriot 10 months ago
You are fantastic, the best example of slam poetry out there, thank you.
JayLovePlaysGuitar 1 year ago
fucking powerul.
AndyRiot 1 year ago
Taylor Mali should be the poet laureate of American teachers.
vandykgreene 1 year ago
teachers make way more difference then soldiers!
Soldiers destroy, teachers create and inspires <--that is all the difference in the world!
If there were no soldiers in the world only teachers, then we would have one hell of a civilization by now..
So i personally will ALWAYS remember my teachers both the good and the bad ones for what they gave me and taught me, and that i can teach others!
Sharing is caring ppl and teachers do it every day :)
MasterOfFlash92 1 year ago 3
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chamz137 1 year ago
Good thing this God everyone is talking about doesn't god damn fucking exist or else he would be pretty pissed about all of this taking his name in vain.
AHPmusic 1 year ago
Come on, you all. Drop all the silly comparisons--soldiers vs. teachers, etc.--and look at this for what it is: a good poem with an inspiring message, well delivered. And as far as "using the lord's name in vain"--the problem is yours. I think in context the lord wouldn't have any problem with this.
ShenSpirit 1 year ago
He needs to chill out
josephasinchang 1 year ago
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shellicreed 1 year ago
Personally I think that Soldiers make a lot more difference than teachers but since you can't see what it would be like without them they don't get near enough credit for what they do and what they sacrifice to do it. Teachers rank way above lawyers in my book but just not anywhere near soldiers.
ken345a 1 year ago
@ken345a and who taught the soldiers? to read and write? maybe they do make more of a difference than teachers but teachers are the foundation of any country or institution they sacrifice there own greatness for someone else's...
ofthesun100 1 year ago 2
I would have "Liked" if he would not have used my Lord's name in vain. I was going to share the link to my facebook until I heard that. Other than that, great job.
erhucs 1 year ago
@erhucs lighten up
mistermudd 1 year ago
@erhucs yeah, what a fuck-up. thats just goddamn irresponsible. jesus cumming on a lesbian
borat27 1 year ago
Awesome!!!
julieteaston 1 year ago
that was awesome.... I have a teacher that really reminds me of this guy.
silentplane 1 year ago
Wow...what an absolute control freak!!!! I feel bad for his students--constantly being manipulated and coerced. At least they will make good cogs in the wheel of the economy. Oh, and just because you teach doesn't mean they learn! Forget about thinking for themselves. Sheeeesh.
vtstofmind 1 year ago
@vtstofmind Did you over look the part where he made his kids think, question, and criticize? That's what's known as 'thinking for yourself.'
And having high standards for children's minds and challenging them to improve themselves is a shit-ton better than this passive 'everybody is special' bullshit.
cjc813 1 year ago
@vtstofmind Ummm. Ever had a teacher who opened your eyes to a world you never knew existed? Have you ever needed guidance to navigate Shakespeare, Nietzsche, or Camus? If not then great, you are brilliant. However, based on your moronic statement, you have little value for true free thinking and an intellect to match.....in fact, you really don't understand what I refer to now. You are probably shaking your dumb head thinking to yourself that it is really obvious. Again, you are wrong.
seifertchad 1 year ago
I have had teachers who made the history books come to life the words of Shakespeare echo in my ears and feel my soul move as they speak the words of those long dead. I have seen teachers able to answer a question with a answer of "Open your book to page 346 second paragraph 2 third line" without touching their book. But I have also seen teachers who entered the filled so they will be seen as 'noble' no. The profession isnt noble it is the teachers who make the child want to grow who are noble.
rougn 8 months ago 6
@vtstofmind You are really not thinking this though. Do you realize you argue against the noblest profession? Teaching has rewards,but most are not financial. So, fire away...
seifertchad 1 year ago
@seifertchad It being the "most noble" profession is easily debatable.
When you think teacher you think "bachelor/masters degree", "compulsory education", but in reality "teacher" means anyone who teaches.
No, you are not noble merely because you choose a job that rewards in ways differently than money. Do Salvation Army volunteers beat out "teachers"?
In fact teachers in western nations get paid more than 90% of the planet, so please downplay all these so called sacrifices.
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
@Icannottolerateit be a teacher than... because i can guarantee you have no idea what they do just to get by the day...and they spend most of that money on your last statement on their "kids" because every school has a budget and still want test scores to be higher than last year...and i know you don't know how they put their own families second and how when they come home they work on school wok for their "kids"... and its all for one thing when a kid smiles and says i get it now...
ofthesun100 1 year ago
Investment bankers look down on lawyers, lawyers look down on teachers and teachers look down on anyone working a "menial" job.
To pretend teachers are on some moral high ground above this kind of thing is rather silly.
So you "chose" to receive less pay to have a job with "meaning"? Such a burden you brought onto yourself...You know, since teachers in America still have a salary in at least the 90th percentile. What is like to suffer so much and sacrifice so much? *sigh*
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
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@Icannottolerateit You are really not thinking this though. Do you realize you argue against the noblest profession? Teaching has rewards,but most are not financial. So, fire away...
seifertchad 1 year ago
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Respond to this video... You are really not thinking this though. Do you realize you argue against the noblest profession? Teaching has rewards,but most are not financial. So, fire away...
seifertchad 1 year ago
Obviously this is my favourite of your poems. Brings a tear to my eye each time.
Outoftheboxteach 1 year ago
I like this guy. I wish he had been my teacher. I'm a teacher too, but not a school teacher. I've always been one. I've always been explaining things to people who didn't understand them, helping people do things a little better, showing people the "other side" of things. When I was younger, I did it too much and w/too much force. Now I only do it now when I'm paid to do it or it feels right or both. If teaching is your calling, you can't help but do it. Bad teachers just have the wrong job...
GeneBurnett 1 year ago
@dubya68, You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make them drink.
reneelagamba 1 year ago
I really wish he hadn't said GD at the end of this. I really wanted to show this to my mother, a kindergarten teacher, but I know the GD would really bother her. He was doing so well until then, but then he used that word unwisely. Yes, I realize one might say I'm missing his point here, but as a teacher he should think about the words he uses and the point that he makes. Does he honestly think the difference he makes has been damned by God?
InEveryLang 1 year ago
whoa, that was pretty damn good
Be2DaSelja 1 year ago
Teachers make a lot when you factor in vacation time... and the fact that unless they quit their job is safe.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68
You may not know this, but teachers DO NOT get paid for vacation time. Their salary is mearly divided out over the whole year. How would like to finish working for your salary year in May, but not get all of your money until the end of August? No, teachers do NOT make alot.
pamm777 1 year ago
@pamm777 Personally, yes, if I was paid over $40,000 dollars a year but only had to work for nine months, I'd be ecstatic! Stop complaining because, unless you teach in a high-crime area, you don't have nearly the amount of stress as other professions and don't have to work as many total hours.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 You're kidding, right? Teaching is a VERY tough job and takes a VERY special and talented person to do it. Please do not make assumptions about something you obviously know nothing about. Teachers don't get to quit at 3pm when school gets out, they have TONS of other work and preparations to do. A teacher's job is never-ending.
xtina221 1 year ago
@xtina221 No, a teacher's job varies from teacher to teacher. Some do have a never-ending job but others are lazy. Teacher's unions need to stop appeasing to every teacher and teachers need to be held responsible. Good teachers can keep their benefits and deserve it, but teachers who treat the benefits like welfare need to be fired.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 I'm not arguing that. You're absolutely right. There are some terrible teachers out there, but not all of them. And your comment can go along with ANY profession, not just teachers.
xtina221 1 year ago
@xtina221 I agree, the problem is unions. Just going to NJ we had to get a battery changed and it took us 40 minutes. IMO a free market school system would end up better because the school with the best education for the best prices would succeed but wouldn't be able to become complacent. Hell if it was free market then the schools with the best benefits would have a line of teachers out the door (applying) and would be forced to take the best of the best.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 You must've had some pretty bad teachers in your day to feel that way. I'm sorry for you.
mcverlei 1 year ago
@dubya68
Sorry to burst your bubble, but in a study that was done it was shown that while the average worker works 2000 hours a year (40hrs/wk x 50, allowing for 2 weeks of vacation) teachers work 2040 hrs on average in a 9 1/2 - 10 month period of time.
The average teacher currently lasts 5 yrs in the profession. The reasons for this:
lack of appropriate pay and STRESS. Unless you have been there, you have no idea.
pamm777 1 year ago
@pamm777 My problem is the socialistic/welfare resemblance of the teacher's jobs. Piss-poor teachers are making the same if not more with greater benefits than the truly good teachers who kick ass in their job. Teachers will not get fired unless they screw up big time. The stress is terrible, but hey, if they were allowed to discipline the students (not abuse of course) then it would be less of a problem.
dubya68 1 year ago
In 37 years. I could count on one hand the number of "piss poor" teachers I have worked with. When did you start evaluating teachers? What grade were you in? I've seen negative comments on facebook about teachers I worked with whom I know were outstanding teachers. Students don't always have all the information. Why do you want to trash one of the noblest profession of all, because you believe you had a few bad teachers? Even if you did, that's no excuse.
pamm777 1 year ago 62
@pamm777 It's no excuse for teachers to ruin the school system with their demands claiming they should be making more more MORE MORE. All anyone hears from the unions, is more more more more. We get it teachers have a hard job, so do construction workers, truck drivers, soldiers, etc, and nobody hears them complaining. (at least to the level of teachers)
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 So you are comparing teachers to truck drivers, construction workers, and soldiers? Seriously? I have nothing but respect for the people who do those jobs. But, teaching is a profession. I figured out that for the salary I made last year, which was near the top, I made $31.86/hr. The plumber who just fixed my sink makes $85. I'd hate to think what I would have made without my union.
pamm777 1 year ago
@pamm777 Plumbers don't have a steady income with added pensions and benefits. That's why he makes $85 an hour and you make $31.86. In plumbing (unless he is working for a company) you have to pay for tools/gas/business expenses daily just to get the job done. Teachers (if their school is heavily funded) don't have daily expenses other than the gas for their car. Plus, teachers also have what is only dreamed of in other professions: job security.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 Really we ought to end this right now. In my school district, teachers spend, on average, $1500 out of their own pockets to fund their jobs. In what other PROFESSION does this happen? And as for job security, guess you haven't been keeping up with the news and the massive teacher lay offs across the country. I get that you think you know alot about my profession, but really you do not.
pamm777 1 year ago
@pamm777 40,000 minus 1,500 equals 38,500, which is still an extremely good salary considering pensions. The layoffs are for a reason, teachers (as a whole) get so much taxpayer money, that in a bad economy (you know, when the government can't just pull money out of its ass) they and other government workers are getting laid off.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 The point is, again, in what other profession is everything you need to do your job not provided for you, so you don't have to spend your own money? I can't help but wonder what you do for a living. This will be my last communication with you, as some other people have jumped in. You need to get over your resentment of teachers and move on.
pamm777 1 year ago
@dubya68 You really don't have a clue, do you?
marionettejump 1 year ago
@marionettejump What? I don't understand, you don't have a life threatening job (just one that requires some leadership skills), you have months off every year, you get a paid pension once you retire, you won't get fired unless you break some law, you get to meet lots of people and hear their stories, it just sounds like you get a good deal out of the whole thing and don't have that much room to complain about it.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 Ok let me clarify since apparently you've never taught. I'll break it down point by point:
1- We don't have a life threatening job: Really? Tell that to the teachers at Columbine, the professors at Virginia Tech or any other teacher who has had to lock down their building, break up a fight or sit in a staff meeting listening to why several students are expelled for having weapons in their possession on school grounds.
skautz14 1 year ago
@skautz14 Yeah because school shootings happen all the time.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 (continued)
2- We get months off every year: Do you know what we do with those "months off"? Buy supplies, write lesson plans, develop curriculum to challenge the kids even more next year, attend conferences, clean and set-up our classrooms, tutor, teach summer school and volunteer. I count time off as time when I do nothing related to school. So far in my career I have never had a "day off"
skautz14 1 year ago
@skautz14 Cleaning and making lesson plans takes a month at most. Are you making a strict lesson plan for each and every day or a general lesson plan that's flexible? Tutoring and summer school should be extra income and if it isn't then that's a huge problem.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68
3- Pension: True, but compared to what we made while teaching, it is about time for a reward aside from knowing we make a difference.
4- We won't get fired: Perhaps not but we will get laid off, shuffled to new schools to meet budget demands, have to travel from room to room because they can't afford to give everyone a permanent classroom and with recent legislation your ability to be "let go" or "fired" increases if kids aren't meeting standards.
skautz14 1 year ago
@skautz14 If kids aren't meeting standards isn't that grounds for getting fired? If a construction worker builds a house that's low quality then he should be fired. If you think it's a problem for you to be fired for not getting your job done then you are living in la-la land.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 Sorry. Just couldn't pass this one by. A construction worker gets to send back defective parts. We teach which ever students are placed in our classes. We can't control their home life, which plays a hugh part in how successful they are in school. We do work our asses off to help students overcome if they are in a bad situation. Sometimes we can help, but it's very difficult.
pamm777 1 year ago
@pamm777 And, btw, we CAN get fired. Not all states have tenure or even collective bargaining. If someone is a bad teacher, because, let's face it, not everyone can make it as a teacher, a principal should know long before the standardized test. So if you've truly had a bad teacher, blame a principal.
pamm777 1 year ago
@dubya68 ...and Medical Doctors should be fired when people don't get better...and the police should be fired because we still have crime...and...
1442michael 1 year ago
@1442michael No, but when a person isn't doing their job then they should be fired. People are gonna die/do bad in school/commit crimes, but lazy people in these professions should be held accountable. Anyways the free market would solve this problem in a year or two. And the (eventual) downfall of teacher's unions.
dubya68 1 year ago
@dubya68 And finally, the meeting people. You are correct, I meet loads of wonderful children and parents every day. I also meet kids whose stories break my heart. Who I worry about from the second they leave my room until I see them at their locker the next morning. I meet kids who will become a statistic no matter how hard I try and I meet parents who don't deserve to be one. I am a mother, a father, a teacher, a counselor, a friend, a shoulder to cry on and everything else in between.
skautz14 1 year ago
@dubya68 How are teachers ruining the school systems exactly?? We make half of what other professionals make. Alot of times we have to buy supplies, posters, books, decorations, and etc, the list goes on of the things we need but the school can't provide because there is no more money for it. So we take money out of our pockets, away from our families, in order to teach your kids. I am sure you don't ask for a raise in your job or request compensation if you pay for something work related.
Danigurlks 4 months ago
@Danigurlks Maybe you should find a different job if you can't feed your family. And no, I don't pay for anything work related because my employer is responsible enough to get all costs covered all while not using the threat of force to get people to hand over their money.
dubya68 4 months ago
@dubya68 I am not sure where you saw that I put that I couldn't feed my family but okay. I love my job and I am not sure where my school is threatening others our of their money. I didn't realize we had that much power to force you to hand over your money but I am just a selfish money hungry teacher so what do I know. In any case. My only suggestion to you is to home school your children so we don't ruin them and maybe even run for office so you can SAVE THE NATION from teachers like me.
Danigurlks 4 months ago
@Danigurlks When you say that the money is "out of our pockets, away from our families," then you're implying that it is seriously hurting your family. And if I don't pay my taxes, then men with guns come to my house to arrest me. No, I'll just send my children to a private school that doesn't teach them to buckle to authority or blindly follow people. Sorry that I don't agree with paying you more than 50-90k a year plus benefits.
dubya68 4 months ago
@Danigurlks And no, you don't make half of what other professionals make in hourly wages and with the added benefits. That is a lie.
dubya68 4 months ago
@Danigurlks This is the biggest lie in the world. Teachers make fair market value or above; at least that is the case in California. Look at the average annual salaries and compare that to other professional positions and you will see it is right at or above the market average. I am a buyer, I make 52K a year. My brother makes 56K as a teacher. I work at least 50 hours a week, so does he. Plus, he gets his student loans forgiven, I do not. who has the better deal?
caesarmoridon 1 month ago
@pamm777 He isn't trashing the profession at all!!! I suggest you LISTEN to what the man is saying. & For everyone "likes" the above comment, you all should LISTEN and interpret this deliverance.
MurkerX89 1 year ago
@pamm777 I don't think he was trashing teachers at all. If you have that point of view, then perhaps you should evaluate YOUR performance, as a teacher. Everything I have heard from Mali has endorsed teaching and the rewards he has experienced as a member of one of the most noble of all professions. After all, Shakespeare, a poet of sorts, wrote about killing lawyers.
hspayneiii 1 year ago
@pamm777
Amen. And I'd be willing to bet that a lot of those "piss poor" teachers were once passionate about teaching, but the thankless, degrading monotony that they're subjected to on a daily basis just kills it for them.
I support teachers 200%.
Abhorath 10 months ago
@pamm777 oh lighten the fuck up :P
He's a comedy poet after all.
TheLastPalme 9 months ago
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@dubya68
You may not know this, but teachers DO NOT get paid for vacation time. Their salary is just divided out over the whole year. How would like to finish working for your salary year in May, but not get all of your money until the end of August? No, teachers do NOT make alot.
pamm777 1 year ago
I don't want to burst this guy's bubble, but when the lawyer asked what he made, *I think he meant salary.*
LoneHero2 1 year ago
@LoneHero2 Pretty certain "this guy" knew what the lawyer meant when asking what he made, but as I think most teachers would agree, salary is not nearly as important as what they make happen in the classroom. It helps make the point that money is not all that matters.
juliahilliker 1 year ago 23
@juliahilliker Teachers look down on those just like anyone in any other profession.
Just because you happen to be a teacher does not make you exempt from this kind of thing. Teachers will continue to look down on janitors in the same way doctors will look down on teachers....
At the end of the day a janitor could easily make a larger difference than any teacher on the planet if he decided to sacrifice everything for the needy. Teachers just sacrifice some pay cuts?
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
@Icannottolerateit "Teachers will continue to look down on janitors in the same way doctors will look down on teachers." Are you kidding me? And one who teaches knows that the most important people in any school are the administrative secretary and the head janitor. Janitors make the world go around - literally. They get shit fixed, they get shit done. I don't care if the guy never went to college - if he works hard he deserves my respect.
vjamora 1 year ago
@vjamora So you just said it yourself, "if he works hard he deserves my respect" and I agree with you. Work ethic is more important than occupation. A lazy president is something to be loathed but a truly hardworking janitor is something to behold.
Virtue, virtue, virtue! This is what must precede all else! I am not faulting teaching, it is and can be one of the most noble occupations, but I am faulting people in general. Just becoming a teacher means little, that is all I meant.
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
@Icannottolerateit I see. And perhaps it was untrue of me to say that there is not such a thing as a teacher who looks down on manual laborers.
vjamora 1 year ago
@Icannottolerateit You assume too much. You superimpose your own egotistical objectivism upon others. This exposes not only your mediocrity, but also your stupidity.
seifertchad 1 year ago
@seifertchad I assume most people take their professions far more seriously than the virtues themselves required to "make a difference".
Teachers are not some unique breed of human who are naturally sacrificial and virtuous.
He had the right to defend his occupation so I am not faulting him for that, I fault him for his "difference" statement which is the foundation of his argument.
To put it bluntly, a carpenter can have a greater positive influence....
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
@seifertchad You would find fault in me for speaking English to a person who happens to speak only German in my home town where everyone speaks English. You assume that assuming is awful, then proceed to do it!
You insult too much and assume you have exposed something.
Besides, the greatest teachers are those who are themselves the lesson to be learned. A person in the teaching profession can indeed be that, but rarely.
Like I said a janitor can change your life.
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
@Icannottolerateit I think if someone is going to look down on another person, they are going to do it regardless of their job. Anyone can make a difference, if they take or make the opportunity to do so. All I was saying is that it's not about the money. If you knew anything about what Taylor Mali is about, you would already know this.
juliahilliker 1 year ago
@juliahilliker I said nothing to disagree with your statement. Regardless I would not look to Taylor Mali as some sort of spiritual guide, even if what he said regarding this were in any way original.
Icannottolerateit 1 year ago
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@Icannottolerateit I think if someone is going to look down on another person, they are going to do it regardless of their job. Anyone can make a difference, if they take or make the opportunity to do so. All I was saying is that it's not about the money. If you knew anything about what Taylor Mali is about, you would already know this.
juliahilliker 1 year ago
This. is. AWESOME. I love it.
ballerinagirlspeaks 1 year ago
This one took me by surprise. Its excellent, imo, and I think the guy deserves a standing ovation.
lectric10 1 year ago
I am graduating soon with a degree in Elementary Education and this gives me hope that some people still understand the struggles. Every day when I see my students it makes my day better because I know that they look up to me and I know that I will somehow enhance their day as well. I am going into teaching because that's what I LOVE. I hope to make it so that tests are not the be all end all and that grades are nothing more than a letter. I WILL make a difference, no matter what anyone says.
Tinkerdevil7 1 year ago
I think you may just have made my day.
It's the end of a VERY long term (11 weeks) of teaching 7 year olds, and I'm looking into 2 weeks of vacation, knowing that despite the amount of work I have, despite the fact that I'm loving the idea of NOT having to get up at 6am.... I'll get bored, because I LOVE being in the classroom, and I love seeing my kids faces when they find out something they never knew before.So, thank you for further inspiring me.
CJtheCregg 1 year ago
Awesome!!!
cdfox85 1 year ago
Teachers, Nowadays, are just sick, and pompous, who haven't done anything and fall on that bullshit lousy excuse "I wanna make a difference" lmao...come on.
AlexTheMusicPhene 1 year ago
@AlexTheMusicPhene you need to watch the movie "stand and deliever", awesome movie based on a true story about a teacher who made a difference. There are actually good teachers out there who want to make a difference. I've had a lot of good teachers who changed me for the best and be a better person.
amgeb182 1 year ago
@AlexTheMusicPhene I'd say that there is probably a good 8% of teachers that are descent people.. there is still hope
mythnow 1 year ago
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cdkytube 1 year ago
Aristotle was right tho.....those that can do...do...those that can't...teach.....teachers are merely a bunch of egotistical, loathsome low life's. Why can't this dude be a writer instead? O, he wants to "help out the kids".....the kids don't give a fuck about you..Write the books, don't read and recite them for others like a fucking idiot.
AlexTheMusicPhene 1 year ago
@AlexTheMusicPhene Because if it wasn't for teachers, no one would know who Aristotle was today. Yes, some teachers are just there for the pay check. But some do actually make a difference. Teachers worth their salt aren't there to teach kids all the inner workings of symbiosis, or trigonometry, or the difference of prose and verse. They are there to teach them how to learn, plant the seed, and allow it to grow.
Matty22NYC 1 year ago
that's funny tho, Aristotle was a thinker and observer, his word spread because it was true, we teach each other regardless, you learn something new everyday. Sure they help little kids and all that, but with a grade system, learning is out of the picture, so its a game with em'. So you really think a kid gives a shit? I'm 19 and I attend UCLA, and even NOW, the majority thinks about just passing, and not learning from their "teachers".
AlexTheMusicPhene 1 year ago
@AlexTheMusicPhene I know most kids don't give a shit now, but I went to college as well (Sacramento State). It took me years to realize how important some of the good teachers were for me. Grade school, High school, and college years alike.
Matty22NYC 1 year ago
@Matty22NYC I can respect that bro. We all learn from somethin' you know.
AlexTheMusicPhene 1 year ago