If you were graduating college with a teaching degree, how would you feel about this?

Question

I teach in Florida where we will not get a step increase until the economy gets better. We were sent an email today warning of some fee increases. Remember a new teacher must take a Professional exam and a Subject Area exam on top of paying for finger printing.



FLORIDA TEACHER CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION
FEES INCREASE
EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2009

In May 2009 the State Board of Education amended Rule 6A-4.001, FAC
to include an increase in registration fees for the FLORIDA TEACHER CERTIFICATION EXAMINATION PROGRAM. The new fees will apply to examinations taken on or after September 1, 2009.

EXAMINATION OLD FEE NEW FEE
General Knowledge Test, First-Time Registration $50.00-$130.00
General Knowledge Test, Retake Registration $50.00-$150.00
Professional Education Test, First-Time Regis $50.00-$150.00
Professional Education Test, Retake Regis $50.00-$170.00
Subject Area Examination, First-Time Regist $50.00-$200.00
Subject Area Examination, Retake Registration $50.00-$220.00


Computer Based Exams are available for the old fee if registered online and taken prior to September 1, 2009. Please Note: Limited seating available.
You may register at the following website: www.fl.nesinc.com

Answer 1

Unfortunately with the economy being what it is, even state agencies will be scrambling to make money any way they can. I really wish, however, that they would consider the effects on teachers.



We do not have a lucrative profession to begin with,. Add to that the costs of testing, certification, continuing education, and the amount of money that most teachers invest in their classrooms- and it is no wonder that many people either leave the profession or choose not to enter it in the first place.



On a practical note- here are my suggestions if this fee increase is going to affect you.



First of all, take advantage of the computer based testing, which according to what you wrote above- is available for the old pricing. Get your tests taken and out of the way BEFORE the price increase comes through.



Secondly- check with a tax specialist and see if any of the fees can be written off as deductions on your taxes. (you could call the IRS or contact them via the web).



Whether or not the testing and certification fees are deductible, start keeping track of your other expenses that are. such as supplies you use in the classroom.



Also- if you have student loans, Check into the educator loan forgiveness programs. Most student loans can be decreased or even eventually written off if you meet the program guidelines.



And finally- don't let the problems with the fees make you forget why you wanted to become a teacher to begin with. Let's face it- no one goes into teaching for the money (unless they hopelessly flunked math) Good luck with your entry into the most important, but unfortunately least compensated profession.

Answer 2

because of this i went to college a little bit later than such a lot individuals, on account that you difference plenty in 4 years. of path you opt for a measure that you are inquisitive about. then you are performed, and most probably you're utilizing that measure to get a task. and it is a task you hate. and also you do it for the leisure of your lifestyles, potentially. and you are 22 years ancient. (simply assuming you begin college at 18). and you are depressing and you do not desire to coach, after which for certain your pupils don't seem to be getting some thing from your lesson. you would now not want another subject, you simply would want another populace that you are instructing. have you ever proposal approximately instructing teens song? or adults? you do not ought to paintings at an basic college. as tough as it's to confess...it is tough running with kids. they are irritating. i'm hoping you determine what you desire to do...

Answer 3

I would say welcome to the wonderful world of education. You will be spending the rest of your career spending money out of your own pocket for professional development, classroom libraries, classroom decor, your supplies etc. The list is endless. Most teachers I know spend a minimum of $500 of their own money on the classroom each year. Some have spent $1000s each year. If you are getting into teaching for money, you will be quickly disappointed. This is just another example of how the millions of teachers in this country are helping to fund the educational system out of their own pockets.

Answer 4

just wait until you are a teacher- theres more of that to come.



I have to continue my education forever - I already have a masters degree, and this summer I have to pay for a gifted certification update. Last summer is was a UCLA math course - not cheap.



classroom supplies, first aid certification, tb screening, courses and workshops - all mandatory.