[jki275]

I agree with you completely on that -- but even to call them low status is in my opinion simply inaccurate. Even teachers who aren't paid well are still not "low status" like a bartender or custodian or something that would more commonly (not saying I agree because I'm not a fan of such labels..) be considered a "low status" occupation.

One of the things I appreciate about Japanese society is the fact that pretty much anyone who has a profession is proud of their profession, is paid well for it, and it's generally not considered proper to look down on someone for their position. Everyone contributes to society and that's how it should be.