Surprising Teacher Facts

doug • October 4, 2021

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Surprising Teacher Facts

 “What really makes a teacher is love … for it is love that transforms the social duty of the educator into the higher consciousness of a mission.”

It doesn’t have to be Teacher Appreciation Week to show your gratitude towards your teacher. Almost everyone has a story about a teacher who inspired them—the one who made learning fun. The teacher who ignited a passion for a specific topic. There are those who even pushed students hard to soar beyond expectations.

Those are the teachers we remember; their legacies live on in the professional and personal achievements of those who passed through their classrooms. And they can still inspire, long after the last class.

We thought it would be fun to share a few interesting things we’ve learned about teachers and their dedication. Because as any good teacher will tell you, learning is a lifelong journey. Surprising teacher facts:

  1. There are more than 3 million teachers in the U.S. Public schools have a total of about 3.2 million full-time equivalent teachers, according to federal statistics. Sounds like a lot, until you consider that there are approximately 51 million K-12 students to teach!   These are Surprising Teacher Facts.
  2. The vast majority of teachers are women. The fact that many teachers are women probably isn’t a surprise, but the percentage might be larger than you think: It’s nearly 77%. And more than 54% of principals are women, too.  
  3. They probably work more than you realize—and not only in the classroom. We’re all envious of the summer vacations most teachers get. Howeve, according to surveys, teachers work an average of 50 hours a week. And they might not have a summer vacation at all: About 30% of them have second jobs.  
  4. When they’re not teaching, many teachers are taking classes of their own. Nearly 60% of teachers have a postgraduate degree. This helps to advance their careers with additional education usually required. These are surprising teacher facts. And unlike training in the corporate world, this is done on the teachers’ own time (and often on their own dime). This is a surprising teacher fact.
  5. They spend their own money in the classroom. When teachers don’t have enough supplies, or they want to provide their students with more, almost all of them (94%) dig into their own pockets. The average cost for teacher-funded supplies? About $500 annually. That’s not pocket change, especially when you consider that teacher salaries average about $55,000 nationally.  
  6. Frequently, that support goes way beyond school supplies. More than 65% of teachers in one survey said they had paid for food or covered the cost of field trips for students in need. Wow, that is more over the top surprising teacher facts. And 33% have purchased coats, gloves, or other winter clothing for kids in their classes. Clearly, they’re dedicated to more than just education. They want to ensure the well-being of their students.  
  7. The best gift isn’t a red apple. Despite the classic image of an apple on the desk at the front of the room, teachers say there are better ways to show your appreciation. Try a gift card for a coffee shop, or to an office-supply store to help with their classroom expenses. Are you one of the 88% of people who say a teacher has had a significant positive impact on your life? The most meaningful thing of all might simply be a heartfelt note saying, “Thank you for doing what you do.”

Have you thanked a teacher lately?

Other Select Source Insurance Blog Articles Regarding Education:

Other Surprising Teacher Facts:  National Center For Education Statistics

 

By Doug Stockman May 1, 2025
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive into the thrilling world of... drumroll please... comparing car insurance! I know, I know, hold your applause. It's not exactly skydiving with a unicorn, but trust me, it's way less likely to result in a hospital bill (unless you faint from the sheer excitement of saving money). Looking forward to all those calls with several agents to compare car insurance quotes? Rest easy, help is here. Let's be honest, "compare car insurance" sounds about as fun as folding fitted sheets. It conjures images of endless online forms, confusing jargon, and the nagging suspicion that you're about to get bamboozled into buying coverage for alien abduction (which, let's face it, is probably not in your standard policy). Not to mention all the agents trying to you would have to speak with to get many quotes to compare. But here's the comedic plot twist: not comparing your car insurance is actually way more painful. Think of it like sticking with that ancient flip phone because "it still makes calls." Sure, it works, but you're missing out on a whole universe of sleek features, better deals, and the ability to finally understand what your friends are laughing about in the group chat. So, why should you, the magnificent driver of your trusty (or slightly rusty) vehicle, brave the wilds of comparison? Breathe easy, it doesn't take several calls or several online forms, just give Select Source a call. We will do all the comparison shopping for you. The "Wait, I'm Overpaying?!" Revelation: Imagine that glorious moment when you realize you've been shelling out more dough than a bakery for the exact same coverage your neighbor Mildred got for the price of a slightly used garden gnome. The savings can be surprisingly significant, enough to fund that weekend getaway you've been dreaming of (minus the questionable roadside diner stops, hopefully). Unearthing Hidden Gems (aka Better Coverage): Sometimes, comparing isn't just about price. It's like sifting through a thrift store and finding that vintage leather jacket that fits you perfectly and makes you look effortlessly cool. You might discover a policy with better roadside assistance (because who hasn't had a flat tire at the most inconvenient time?), lower deductibles, or even coverage for that rogue squirrel that keeps trying to claim your engine as its winter palace. Avoiding the "Oops, I'm Not Covered for That" Catastrophe: Life throws curveballs, sometimes literally (watch out for those errant baseballs!). Comparing policies helps you understand exactly what you're protected against. Do you need rental car reimbursement? What about uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage? Don't wait until disaster strikes to realize your policy is as helpful as a chocolate teapot in a hailstorm. The Takeaway (and the Punchline): Comparing car insurance doesn't have to be a soul-crushing chore. Think of it as a mini adventure, a quest for savings and better protection. And who knows, you might even find a company with a mascot that makes you chuckle. So, ditch the insurance inertia. Embrace the power of comparison. Your wallet (and your sanity) will thank you. And hey, if you get overwhelmed, that's what your friendly, independent insurance agency (that's us!) is here for. So, instead of having to deal with a bunch of producers calling and not knowing which is spam, we will get several quotes for you with just one private phone call or fill out our online quote request form. We'll help you navigate the maze without needing a map, a compass, or a therapy llama. Now go forth and compare! Your inner bargain hunter awaits! Call 864-585-8318.
By Doug Stockman April 29, 2025
tl;dr: There's no single "best" car insurance company because everyone's needs are different, like ice cream flavors. Instead of getting overwhelmed comparing yourself or dealing with endless calls from filling out online forms, Select Source Insurance, an independent agency right here in the Upstate, does the shopping for you. They consider your specific situation to find the best coverage and price from various trusted companies. Think of them as your insurance matchmakers. Call 864-585-8318 to find your perfect fit! Alright, let's dive into the age-old question that's probably kept you up at night, right after "Did I leave the stove on?" and "What is the deal with airplane food?": Which car insurance company reigns supreme? Now, if you were expecting a definitive answer, a shiny gold medal draped across the metaphorical shoulders of one single insurer, well, grab a lukewarm cup of coffee and settle in. The truth, my friends, is about as straightforward as trying to parallel park on a busy Saturday. The "Best" is a Moving Target. You see, declaring one car insurance company the absolute "best" is like saying there's one single "best" ice cream flavor. Have you ever tried to choose a flavor at Baskin and Robbins? Sure, vanilla's a classic, but what about the die-hard chocolate chunk aficionados or my favorite, Pralines and Cream? Or the adventurous pistachio lovers? Everyone's got their own taste, and the same goes for insurance needs. What's perfect for your neighbor with a squeaky-clean driving record, a sensible sedan, and a garage that's actually used for parking might be a total mismatch for you, the proud owner of a jacked up truck who occasionally navigates unpaved backroads (and might have a lead foot – no judgment). So, if there's no single "best," what's a responsible driver to do? That's where the magic of an independent insurance agency comes in, and yes, that's us! We're not tied to any single insurance carrier. We're like your Instacart for personal insurance shopping, sifting through a variety of options to find the perfect fit for your unique situation. Think of it this way: those big-name insurance companies you see plastered all over TV? They're like department stores. They have a lot of options, but the salespeople are only pushing their own brand. We, on the other hand, are like your local boutique – we handpick from a curated selection of different, competitive and national insurers, focusing on finding the one that truly complements your style (read: driving habits and insurance needs). What We Consider (and What You Should Too): When we're on the hunt for the "best" insurance for you, here are some of the factors we weigh: Coverage Options: Does the policy offer the protection you need? We're talking beyond the basics of liability and uninsured protection. What about collision, comprehensive, underinsured motorist, roadside assistance or even car rental reimbursement? Do they have those extra bells and whistles you might want, like accident forgiveness, new car replacement, trip interruption or customization coverage? Price (of course!): While the cheapest isn't always the best, we understand that budget matters. We'll compare quotes from multiple reputable, well known, financially sound companies to find competitive rates without sacrificing essential coverage. Discounts: Who doesn't love saving money? We'll explore all the potential discounts you might qualify for, from good driver discounts to multi-car or home and auto bundles. Financial Stability: You want an insurance company that will be there when you need them. We look at their financial ratings to ensure they're stable and reliable. Customer Service and Claims Handling: This is where the rubber meets the road (pun intended!). How easy is it to get in touch with them? What's their reputation for handling claims efficiently and fairly? We pay attention to these details because we know how stressful a claim can be. Our "Best" Advice? Talk to Us! We are constantly on the search for the most competitive companies, sound and customer service driven companies. Instead of endlessly scrolling through comparison websites and getting lost in a sea of jargon, or filling out some online form that sells your info to 30 different agents, why not let us do the heavy lifting? If you fill out one of those unknown insurance marketing website forms, watch out! They can sell your information to insurance companies all over the country. Some insured's have had to change their phone number because of so many calls because the calls don't stop. We are right here in the South Carolina Upstate serving many communities, like, Spartanburg, Boiling Springs, Inman, Duncan, Lyman, Roebuck, Moore Woodruff, Pauline, Cowpens, Chesnee and many more. We know the best coverage because we live here and know exactly what you need. We'll take the time to understand your individual needs, your driving habits, your vehicle, any youthful drivers and your budget. Your information stays private with us. We do not sell your information. You have one point of contact but get rated by many national competing companies. Then, we'll present you with tailored options from a variety of trusted insurance companies. Once you become our customer (look at our 5 Star Google Reviews) if you ever become unhappy with the company, we place you with (all companies eventually raise rates), we can place you with another competitive company that is available with the best rates in the current market. Think of us as your insurance matchmakers. We're here to connect you with the policy that offers the best coverage, the right price, and the peace of mind you deserve. So, is there one single "best" car insurance company? Probably not. But is there a best car insurance company for you? Absolutely. And we're here to help you find it. Give us a call today – let's ditch the guesswork and get you properly protected. 864-585-8318
By Doug Stockman April 28, 2025
Alright, folks, settle in for a crash course (pun intended!) on the fascinating, slightly bewildering world of car insurance. Yes, I know, it's about as thrilling as watching paint dry, but trust me, understanding how it works can save you from a world of headaches and wallet-emptying woes. Here at Select Source Insurance, we're here to break it down, with a dash of humor to keep you from falling asleep. Car Insurance: It's Not Just a Piece of Paper (Though It Feels Like It Sometimes) Imagine car insurance as a safety net for your four-wheeled friend. When things go sideways (literally or figuratively), it's there to catch you, or at least cushion the financial blow. But how does this magical safety net actually work? The Basics, Explained (With Minimal Jargon): You Pay, They (Hopefully) Pay: You pay a premium (think of it as a monthly subscription to "avoid financial ruin"), and in exchange, your insurance company agrees to cover certain losses if you have an accident, your car gets stolen, or a rogue squirrel decides to use your windshield as a trampoline. Coverage: It's Like a Menu, But Less Delicious: Car insurance policies come with different types of coverage, each designed to protect you in specific situations. Liability Coverage: This is the "oops, I hit someone else" coverage. It pays for their injuries and property damage (up to your policy limits) if you're at fault in an accident. It's like saying, "Sorry about that, let my insurance handle it." Collision Coverage: This covers damage to your own car if you hit something (another car, a tree, a particularly stubborn mailbox). It's like a band-aid for your car's boo-boos. Comprehensive Coverage: This covers damage to your car from things other than collisions, like theft, vandalism, hail, or a herd of stampeding llamas. It's helps with damage other than collisions with limitations. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This protects you if you're hit by someone who doesn't have insurance or doesn't have enough. It's like having a backup plan for the backup plan. Deductibles: Your Share of the Pie (or Wrecked Bumper): A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. It's like a co-pay at the doctor's office, but for your car. The higher your deductible, the lower your premium, but make sure you can actually afford it if you need to file a claim. Claims: The "Please Don't Make Me Cry" Part: When you have an accident, you file a claim with your insurance company. They investigate, assess the damage, and (hopefully) pay for the repairs or replacement. It's like a detective story, but with less dramatic music and more paperwork. Why It's Important to Have a Good Insurance Agent (Like Us!): We Speak Insurance-ese: We can translate the confusing jargon into plain English, so you actually understand what you're paying for. We Shop Around for You: As an independent agency, we work with multiple carriers, so we can find you the best rates and coverage for your needs. We're like your personal insurance shoppers. We're Here When You Need Us: When you have a claim, we'll be there to guide you through the process and make sure you get the help you need. We're like your insurance therapists, but with better advice. We can help you avoid the "I tried to parallel park my boat" situation: Yes, that was a real claim. The Moral of the Story: Car insurance is a necessary evil, but it doesn't have to be a confusing one. At Select Source Insurance in Spartanburg, we're here to make it as painless as possible. So, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to give us a call. We're always happy to help, and we promise to keep the insurance jokes to a minimum (mostly). 864-585-8318 or get a quote at Auto Insurance Quote