Do Public School Teachers Send Their Children to Private Schools?

When I taught at public secondary schools, I noticed many of my colleagues' children in my classes. This was not rare, as some teachers asked to have their children in their classes, knowing the high quality of education provided. However, not all public school teachers can afford private schools for their children, especially in California, which has high living costs.

Respect for Colleagues' Work and Convenience

When public school teachers respect the work of their peers and understand the value of each role, it makes sense for them to send their children to public schools. Not only is it easier for teachers to drive their children to school and go to work at the same time, but it also means they remain close to their children and can be present in case of emergencies. Additionally, teachers can interact with colleagues, keeping them informed about their children's progress.

Teacher Compensation and Work Hours

The data from News Radio indicates that 10% of school-age students go to private schools, whereas 20% of teachers' school-age children attend private schools. There's a stark contrast between teachers' perceptions of their worth and the reality of their earnings. While teachers often cite long working hours (50-80 hours a week) and demanding schedules, their official workday is just 6.5 hours a day, with only 36 teaching weeks a year.

My experience in rural public schools further supports this reality. Private schools were scarce, and teachers preferred to have their children in the school they taught in, ensuring convenience and accessibility. While some may argue that year-round schooling is necessary, it is a complaint often coupled with dissatisfaction over current compensation and working conditions. Teachers, like any profession, deserve fair remuneration and work-life balance, but they should also understand the nuances of their jobs and the limitations set by the education system.

Conclusion

For public school teachers, the decision to send their children to private schools is a complex one, influenced by financial constraints, respect for colleagues, and the convenience of having their children in the same school. It is essential to acknowledge the challenges teachers face and advocate for fairer compensation and working conditions to ensure that they can make informed decisions about their children's education without financial strain.