Teachers must incorporate ever-changing technology into their classrooms. This requires teachers to urge schools to spend money on technology, learn how to use new equipment and handle technological malfunctions. Additionally, teachers may be in schools that have insufficient technological support. This can create wasted class or planning time because help is unavailable when technology is new or not working.
Wealthier districts often have sufficient supplies, but poorer districts may have few books, writing implements and other items that help students practice and master work. According to an August 2009 press release, OfficeMax surveyed teachers about supplies and learned that more than half of the teachers surveyed indicated that there were fewer supplies and resources because of government budget cuts. Additionally, budget cuts affect a school's ability to furnish aids and assistants that can enhance learning or assist special needs children.
Teachers must constantly challenge each student regardless of their level. The students within every class have different abilities. Teachers must prepare lessons and modify class work so all students learn. Although textbooks often include modifications for multiple learning levels, teachers must take the time to put students in appropriate groups, monitor their progress and provide assistance for those students who need extra help while still challenging more advanced students.
Students often get bored or have trouble concentrating. Generally, the younger the child, the shorter his concentration span. Additionally, the school environment outside of class and the family environment can influence a child's motivation. Teachers must make children feel positive, vary activities and arrange them so they coincide with the attention span of the students and the time allotments designated by the curriculum.
Teachers often encounter a student who refuses to follow the rules. Strong classroom management is essential for students to learn. A poorly managed classroom may make strong lesson plans ineffective. Teachers must make clear rules and enforce them. Teachers must take time out of teaching to correct poor behavior and demand appropriate conduct.