Profile of Public Teachers in Medellín, Colombia

Abstract

By recognizing the importance of teacher profile in the quality of basic education, this study describes and analyzes the characteristics of public teachers in the city of Medellín. Analysis results suggest that: (1) teaching career is essentially feminine and senior, and (2) female teachers have higher ranks, teaching experience, and educational level than male teachers, which translates into higher wages. This implies that, although the sector is meritocratic, it is necessary to generate better incentives for current teachers and for high school graduates (especially the best ones) to make the teaching career more attractive (and sought-after), and to avoid a possible deficit in teachers, not only in Medellín, but also in Colombia.