Pam I just loved the classroom. Sure, there will always be the odd student who tests the waters, but for the most part, kids are just great.

But like Ruby, I am not tempted back to a system that so undervalues the job we do. It's complex. The hours are much longer than many would believe. And we're often kept awake at night wondering about how to deal with things.

But the classroom itself? It's a fun place to be. I'm glad I once was a teacher.