A study was conducted to examine the changing demography of teachers. The study examined secondary teachers' initial notions of careers, and through third and fourth year of professional experience. Results suggest a typology of teachers: the 'career' teacher, the 'classroom' teacher and the 'portfolio' teacher, whose commitment to teaching may be temporary. In addition, the commercialization of the education and intensification of teachers' work challenge teachers' 'moral purpose' and professional identity and adversely affect not only their retention but also new teachers' intentions to remain in teaching.