Teaching: A Dream Job?

As a fairly consistent substitute teacher, I've seen the daily rigors of a teacher in elementary and middle school. Recently, however, I took on the job of a kindergarten teacher for two weeks straight. When I substitute, all the lessons are laid out and the sub can show up at 7:30, review the plans, teach the plans, take an hour for conference time and leave at 3:30. It seems that the teacher's job must be just as simple. It's not.
For one thing, With the responsibility of 12-26 children (in elementary school), the teacher is accountable for those children's future learning. With this responsibility comes excellent lesson plans, good teaching style and a compassionate disposition. This is not including the intelligence to impart what is important to future generations, organization and a passion for the information passed on.
Besides lesson plans, teachers are in charge of developing relationships with the kids and dealing with the student's parents, caretakers and other interested parties. Plus, the teacher must work with other instructors, the principal, counselors and the school district personnel.
Before school, a teacher must prepare for the day, and steel him or herself for any unruly children or unhappy parents. Plans must be in order, and specific duties should be in order for the day to run smoothly. This means that after school, preparation must take place in building the curriculum. Ideas must be researched, plans produced, copies made and supplies obtained. Other after school duties include grading papers and entering grades, setting up the classroom, and meetings with other teachers. Teachers work long hours when you include organizing and attending extracurricular activities that occasionally take place on evenings and weekends. Overtime is not unusual for a teacher.
I admire any person who wants to be a teacher full time, and thank all of those who dedicate themselves to our future citizens. I especially admire the teachers at Spicewood Elementary in Spicewood, Texas.