Base on some of the previous responses, I don't know if I would be accused of being idealistic or overly realistic. I suppose leaving a high salaried corporate career and a hard earned, much sacraficed MBA degree behind to teach 5th graders in my home town could be considered idealistic to some... but it is my reality. I have no regrets. To see one child's "light bulb" go off on a newly learned concept or to know that one hug, pat on the shoulder or "good job" is the most human connection and praise a child may be receiving in their young lives...well on most days makes my Mercedes size student loan bill all the worth it. Some of us try to conquer it big (the world) others of us see just as much value in the small places around us. Afterall, the lives I touch in a classroom someday could change the world.