Teacher earns less than HK$4,500 'with dignity'
One might be surprised to read a job advertisement offering HK$4,500 for a principal teacher's post, and even more surprised to discover that someone working as an acting principal is being paid less than that.
Sandy Tang, in her 40s, took up the post as acting principal of Yuen Kong Kindergarten in Pat Heung, Yuen Long, last September after the principal resigned.
Her job duties range from teaching and administrative work to cleaning and maintenance.
'I don't want to reveal the exact amount of my monthly salary,' she said. 'But I can tell you the school's monthly income is only about HK$5,000 which covers all operating costs. I am the only teacher in the school.'
Only five children aged three to six attend the kindergarten, which was founded in 1988, and their families pay monthly school fees of about HK$1,000 for each.
Ms Tang posted an advertisement on the Labour Department's website last month inviting candidates to apply for the part-time principal post with a monthly wage of HK$4,500. Working hours for the five-day work week are from 9am to noon.
Candidates are required to have a teaching certificate, four years' experience and good proficiency in English and Putonghua.
'I am not qualified to be a principal so I have to do the recruitment,' she said. 'One might be shocked to read the advertisement. But I think education is priceless and should not be measured in money terms. Educators should teach ... with dignity, disregarding the pay.'
Inspired by a devoted educator - the principal of Yuen Kong Public School who died last year but was a consultant for the kindergarten - Ms Tang said she was determined to continue to operate the kindergarten no matter how difficult.
'I really love my job and I am happy that I can afford to do this.'
