What county is best for teachers? (Baltimore, Frederick: middle schools, move, relocating)

[jessMD]

I have been teaching in Montgomery County Public Schools for
the last three years. As much as I enjoy teaching, I find
MCPS to be a stressful county to work in. There are a lot
of initiatives sent down from the administration every year
that add extra stress to the job. MCPS also provides a
county-written curriculum that requires teachers to make
and/or find most of their materials.


I just want to know is it the same in other Maryland counties? I am particularly interested in Frederick, Howard, Carrol, and Anne Arundel counties because we may be relocating.

[cutgarden]

I can only speak of Carroll. I think teachers are fairly happy here, and the pace will certainly be more laid back. No idea of what openings are available, but would be worth checking out North Carroll, South Carroll, Liberty (Eldersburg), Linganore (Libertytown in Frederick County), Francis Scott Key, and then in Westminster, Winters Mill High and Westminster High, along with the various elementary and middle schools.

[autimom4ever]

Originally Posted by jessMD

I have been teaching in Montgomery County Public Schools for
the last three years. As much as I enjoy teaching, I find
MCPS to be a stressful county to work in. There are a lot
of initiatives sent down from the administration every year
that add extra stress to the job. MCPS also provides a
county-written curriculum that requires teachers to make
and/or find most of their materials.


I just want to know is it the same in other Maryland counties? I am particularly interested in Frederick, Howard, Carrol, and Anne Arundel counties because we may be relocating.

My child "used to" go to MCPS's... HATED IT...
I feel for the teachers... To much pressure on you and the kids...

They may look good on paper... but they are TERRIBLE in real life...
I wish the govt. would open their eyes...

MCPS is one reason we moved..

I have no suggestions on what other county in Maryland to teach in... I'm not a teacher... I'm just glad teachers like you are finally going to take a stand and move on and do what they went to school for....TEACH ... not just teach to test...

[lscalder]

Montgomery County government try ther best to make the county look pretty to outsiders instead of revealing the truth. I am not sure how other county works but I do know that other counties are getting stricker with their requirement.

[Alexis03]

From what I understand my 2 step kids have a wonderful school in Calvert County. The oldest has austism and they have been nothing but great with them. They are always looking for teachers because the school has grown so much. I would look into it there.

[Floridahater]

Wow! I am sure surprised. MCPS was a great district years ago when I attended RMHS. What exactly is the problem (or problems)? In other words, what is the truth that should be revealed? I am an educator, and I taught in CA previously. It was constant stess and pressure in that state too!!

[TuborgP]

Howard, is very popular with new teachers and has a strong current teaching force that is thriving with great curriculum support.

[koofie]

I think the climate in MCPS for teachers depends on the school too. I taught in MCPS for 3 years. There were some stupid initiatives, but overall I was pretty happy. I taught at a great school. I made up worksheets, but that was because I wanted to tailor the curriculum to my kids - there were lots that I could use. If you think you have a lot of worksheets ect to make up, try Baltimore Co! My curriculum this year requires 20+ texts, and I am at a new school that has none. I have made nearly everything.

[leverne]

I'm currently working in Baltimore City. Discipline problems stop the learning and teaching process, especially in the middle and high schools. Depending on the school/principal, lack of support could drive you away as well. They're constantly recruiting because of the high turnover, but haven't figured out how to reward good teachers who stay. Very low parent participation and accountability. I think student expectation is too low.

[froggy925]

I teach in Anne Arundel county and I am very happy. Yes, there's lots of standardized testing, but there is in every county now. Generally the curriculum is very clear cut and teachers have easy access to worksheets and materials.