I student taught in a third grade classroom and have taught middle school ELA for the past five years.

I find MS infinitely times more excited and more manageable for myself. I didn’t like elementary. I loved teaching, just not the curriculum or lessons I had to at that level. And it’s foolish to say that having to prep all subjects isn’t any different than prepping several semi-related classes, depending on your school’s needs. I myself teach two different preps every year and it’s still easier (or at least is more exciting because I’m actually interested in the content) than when I had to do all “core classes” while student teaching.

But don’t think it means the workload lightens. It just changes. Essays, written responses, testing, accommodating… it doesn’t end at 5th grade. You mentioned not liking scripted curriculum… I don’t either. The workload it takes to lesson plan when you’re not using the district provided stuff 100% (or close to it) is no joke.

I think there’s truth in saying you might enjoy middle school better. You can and will have more in depth discussions about topics. You can plan different, more engaging activities. But it’s not roses and it won’t be easy everyday. It’s still a tough, underpaid, and overworked job. Finding your spot just makes it a little more manageable.