I cannot teach anybody anything; I can only make them think.

– Socrates

I’ve been hearing about so many teachers resigning at an alarming rate back in the States, but at the same time, I feel as though it was (to a degree) inevitable. Not only are educators underpaid in the States, but they are oftentimes undermined by parents, policy makers, and even by their administrators. I think a part of me is glad that in Japan, teaching is still seen as a respectable career. Granted, Japan definitely still has its drawbacks – including the current issue surrounding work-life-balance and overwork, but it really isn’t as problematic in my workplace and prefecture.

At any rate, I really hope things eventually get situated back in the States.