Kindergarten Teachers - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, preschool and kindergarten teachers:

Have a high level of social interaction. They spend most of their time interacting with children and parents.
Are often placed in conflict situations.
Are responsible for the health and safety of young children.
Must sometimes deal with unpleasant, angry, or discourteous children or parents.
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Are sometimes responsible for work outcomes and results of other workers, such as a teacher aide.
Speak in front of large groups on a weekly basis.
Communicate with coworkers and parents weekly by phone and e-mail. Write letters and memos on a weekly basis.
Communicate with coworkers, parents, and children in person on a daily basis.

Often work indoors, but sometimes work outdoors supervising activities during free time or recreation activities.
Are sometimes exposed to diseases and infections.
Are sometimes exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable, such as from a noisy classroom.
Work very near children. They often work within inches of other people.

Must be very exact in their observation of children's behavior. Identifying problems early allows children to have future success.
Make decisions on a weekly basis that strongly impact parents and children. They consult supervisors for some decisions, but make most without talking to a supervisor.
Are able to set most tasks and goals for the day without talking to a supervisor.
Must meet strict deadlines on a monthly basis.

Generally have a set schedule each week.
May work part time or full time, but most work at least 40 hours a week.
May work extra unpaid hours on planning, parent meetings, and other non-classroom duties.
Usually work a ten-month school year with a two-month summer vacation, if working for a public school system.
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May work a yearlong schedule, if working in a child care center. May work early morning, day, or early evening hours.