As more and more students return to in-person learning, many are unaware of the contracted hours teachers work each day. While it may seem like teachers only work the length of a typical school day, the reality is that their work extends far beyond the hours they spend in the classroom with their students.
The contracted hours for teachers vary depending on the school district, but the average is typically between 7-8 hours per day. This includes time spent in the classroom, planning lessons, grading assignments, participating in professional development, and attending meetings with parents, administrators, and colleagues.
In addition to their contracted hours, teachers often dedicate extra time to their work outside of the school day. This may include staying after school to provide extra help to students, attending extracurricular activities, or working on lesson planning and grading at home.
Furthermore, the workload of teachers has increased significantly with the transition to virtual and hybrid learning. They are now responsible for mastering new technology platforms, adapting their curriculum to the online format, and providing individual support to students who may struggle with remote learning.
Despite the demands of their job, many teachers receive criticism for their “short” work day or for having summers off. However, it is important to recognize the dedication and hard work that teachers put in every day to ensure the success of their students.
In conclusion, teachers’ contracted hours per day may only be 7-8 hours, but their workload and dedication extend far beyond that. They are responsible for shaping the minds of future generations and their efforts should be acknowledged and appreciated.