Korean Job Discussion Forums

[charlieDD]

Do you ever spend out of your own pocket for things you want to use in class? If so, what kinds of things do you find yourself willing to - - maybe "resigned to" - - buy(ing) and how much do you usually find yourself spending? And I mean absolutely out of your own pocket, not reimbursed later by your school?

Speaking of reimbursement: Do you have at your school a way to buy things out of pocket and get reimbursed?

As for me: My school pretty much takes care of all the basics, such office supplies, teacher's books, coffee in the faculty office, etc. My personal policy is never to pay for things that the school obviously should be supplying. However, I'm willing to spend a little on things that I want that I think could liven up the lesson or the class, like colorful chalks (we use chalkboards), occasional props that support an activity, or occasional treats.

My office colleague has a different policy: He absolutely won't spend a dime on anything. He thinks the school should provide absolutely everything that is needed and what they don't provide isn't needed.

How about you?

[Demophobe]

I buy a lot, but it's cool because it all goes with me when I walk.

I've still got items from 8 years ago that are very useful in my homeschool and regular school classes.

I wouldn't expect the school to pay for some of the odd things I decide would be useful in class.

[Lizara]

My school theoretically provides the basics, but it took about two months before I got tired of a) having to ask every time I wanted a new board marker (which was often) and b) being told half the time that they didn't have any then and I should ask again later. So I find it's easier to buy little things like markers, tape, stickers, etc. for myself. Then there are things like whiteout and multiple colours of pens that I like to have but aren't provided by the school.

[ttompatz]

[jellobean]

I teach at a public middle school and spend about 20,000 won on prizes for games (and those who do their homework regularly since my class gets no grade) about once or twice a semester.

[Demophobe]

My schools suppiles everything I need as well...it's the stuff I want, and want to keep for future use, that I buy out of pocket. I have found a heck of a lot of things that aren't really so much about English, but are very useful in the classroom. Mostly realia, some posters, books...

I spend a bit on the kids. All grade 6 students get a nice leather diary for their birthdays, and we have a party (food/snacks/drinks)...only between 9 and 12 kids, so not a big thing.

[tzechuk]

I don't buy any school supplies because I don't think I should be doing that. Luckily we have a budget so we just tell the head teacher what we needs and she goes and buys them.

About once every 2 months I go to Costco and buy a huge bag of tootsie rolls or pops for prize.

[pet lover]

I just spent 20,000 won on presents for my kindy class. I was going to just get prizes for the top three in my impromptu penmanship contest, but they all did so well I had to get everyone something. They really impressed me.

[some waygug-in]

I've spent quite a bit on extra resources. The school provides the basic textbooks and workbooks, but those aren't nearly enough to keep class interesting.

I will donate all this to the school when I leave, I can't imagine carrying a cartload of books around.

I've spent less this year than in previous years, and I've made more of my own things.

I think it's money well spent, as it makes my life easier and keeps the kids from getting overly bored.

[granola]

I get paid alot of money. Actually, I don't worry about the extra money. Hello- as a teacher back home, how much money do you think you would spend?

[Rteacher]

I remember that not many years ago in Florida (where so many retirees don't want to pay any taxes toward education...) it was reported that many sincere teachers in budget-strapped schools would buy basic supplies like paper, pencils and notebooks for their students (but they were sincere teachers - not just hacks in it only for the money and cheap thrills...)

I personally tend to be be extravagant, buying anything that I think would be useful. At hogwans I've been at I bought all kinds of games, videos, flashcards, magnetic theme displays, CD-Roms, DVDs, art materials, candy, ice cream and stuff I can't even remember. (And I would usually leave most of it at the hogwan when I left...)

At my more-or-less public high school I still shell out a lot, including fruit and traditional Korean snacks I regularly bring in to share with Korean teachers...I also subscribe to ksolo karaoke site (ten bucks a month) and handouts on-line (eighteen bucks a year...) Since I also have some evening classes for elementary kids I still buy a lot of candy and stickers, etc. (Dang, along with the higher prices I pay for healthy food, it's no wonder I haven't been able to save much ...)

[cruisemonkey]

$ = 0.00

Fu*k 'em.

I won't spend dime out of my own pocket because I work for a public school district and I know what goes on with regard to bribery and kickbacks.

I'm nothing but a commodity to the Ks; and despite what they say, they don't give sh*t about me personally. Why would I spend my money on their kids?

[Qinella]

[cubanlord]

Thus far, I have spent roughly 500,000WON on my beautiful babies and will continue to spend money on my children. I also spent 400,000Won building my own PC for my room (hence why i am on here so much).

I just woke up and am eating breakfast. If I feel there is a need to elaborate further, I will be happy to do so later.

[sadsac]

Candy, birthdays and treats. It's money well spent. Gifts and prizes I buy when Homeplus are having their big sales. 3000 won sharps for 890 won, stuff like that. I enjoying giving and the kids enjoy being rewarded for effort. Total cost about 40,000 won per month.