What do you think is the largest obstacle teaching Elementary.

I am a secondary teaching thinking about switching to 3rd grade in TX.

Already certified and ready to go, but thought I should see if the grass is greener on the other side of the fence.

In third grade in my state, third grade is the make or break grade for comprehensive assessment and promotion. No thanks.

Each grade has its good side and bad. Ask. There is bound to be a co-worker who went into the upper grades and can answer your questions.

I teach third grade. There is so much pressure and stress put on state testing it makes me wonder how I ever turned out the way I did. I try not to stress my students out about testing but if there isn't AYP the big wigs start breathing down your neck! So, the biggest obstacle is not placing your stress on 8 & 9 years olds - they can only do the best they can do!

Poodles,

3rd grade in TX is the beginning of the TAKS nightmare. The stress to pass is unbelievable for teachers and students. Also, are you prepared to give up students who can semi think for themselves for students who need you to tell them every little thing at least three times and then they'll still ask you "what am I supposed to do?"

Now I teach elementary music (PK-5) and wouldn't trade my level for middle school or high school any day, I just don't jive with that age student, but I love my babies. I'm also in an inner-city school in Dallas, so my kids are a bit rougher, but there is a big difference in switching from secondary to elementary.

But, if you think that's what you want to do, try it. If you don't like it, you can always switch back.

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