What's it like teaching in Philadelphia?

I am interested in teaching in Philadelphia and people have told me not to. What is it like teaching in the city? Is it really as bad as people say it is?

Sorry to tell u but u have ur work cut out for u. The benefits and pay rate voiced by teachers ive had are kind of sub par. And the kids... sorry to tell u but u have ur work cut out for u lol. Maybe its not as bad as i make it sound but Philly is not the top choice for education, teaching or learning.

Sorry if i took the simplistic route for spelling instead of typing EVERYTHING out as it should be spelled. I know how u teachers get about that lol.

I know people who teach in the Philadelphia public school system and I have a lot of respect for them. While it can be very rewarding work, it is a very, very difficult job. Not only are Philadelphia Public Schools an underfunded mess in general, you are dealing with a diverse group of kids who many times are growing up in situations that are far from ideal. I think it is a great thing that you want to try to be a positive influence in the lives of young children, but please be aware that the job can be very difficult, draining and heartbreaking. I am not sure I could handle everything that my teacher friends deal with (one has a 11 year old girl in her class who is pregnant, for example). I wish you good luck and commend you for your interest in teaching in a Philadelphia school. Although the job is extremely stressful, I know the teachers who really care get a lot out of it when they see the progress and success of their students.