Elementary School Teachers - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, elementary school teachers:

Have a very high level of social interaction. They work with children, parents, and other teachers.
Communicate with people face-to-face on a daily basis. They also communicate by phone, e-mail, letters, and memos, usually on a weekly basis.
Are responsible for the health and safety of the children in their school.
Are placed in conflict situations where parents and students might become angry or unpleasant on a weekly basis.
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Usually work as part of a team of educators.

Usually work indoors in classrooms. However, they sometimes teach outdoors or supervise playgrounds.
Work very near others, within a few feet or less. Working with young children often entails close contact.
Are exposed to diseases and infections, such as colds and influenza, on a weekly basis.
Are exposed to loud sounds and high noise levels on a weekly basis.

Must be accurate and complete all details of the job. Errors or oversights may delay student learning.
Often repeat the same activities.
Make decisions that strongly impact the school's reputation. Parents often rely on word-of-mouth when making decisions about their children's education.
Make decisions that affect parents and students on a weekly basis. They are able to make most of their decisions without consulting another first.
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Set most of their daily tasks and goals without talking to a supervisor.
Operate by strict weekly and daily deadlines.

Usually work nine months during the year and have summers off. Some teach summer school.
May work part time or full time. Most work full time.