One of my best friends was a gym teacher for 36 years, he admits that the last 16 he just phoned it in.  He owned a very successful construction and real estate business in addition to teaching.  He did is job, took every sick day, no more, no less.  He should have been kicked out the door, but he at least did his job, many don't.  He is coming up from Fla. to be honored for his achievements.

I have two daughters-in law and a daughter who are teachers.  My daughter quit because effort does not get rewarded, and now run a school bus company.  One daughter-in-law left the public school systems and now works for an elite private school.  My other daughter in law was a computer programer for IBM and has two masters, but teaches math in public school since the birth of her children.  She is the daughter of a retired policeman, and is still horrified that my son doesn't get a salary but works on commissions, pays for his own benefits, and retirement.  He didn't need a mortgage to build his new house, but she needs security of that stead pay check, and would trade a good business for security.  She doesn't believe in merit pay, thinks tenure is wonderful, but is a hard worker and probably a good teacher.  But given the chance she will be like my friend in a few years.

What was once a person who was promoted at IBM because of her knowledge and drive, has become a drone, happy to be a clog in the public school system?  No risk, no reward.

Those that can do, those that can't, teach, those that can't teach, teach gym.