Do certain teachers get more respect?

I have been with Marian for the past two days at a conference for teachers who work with developmental students (those needing what used to be called remediation when they go to college). As I read through the session descriptions and the amount of variety as well as the ability to choose which sessions to attend, I contrast that with how professional development is done in the K-12 level.  Choice--haha.  Usefulness--usually not? Variety--that depends on how you look at it.  A few years ago workshops focused on group work.  Now workshops focus on a more structured approach to teaching (due, in part, to the emphasis on testing).  In a few years, project-based learning will probably be the hot thing.  The variety is in the cycle, or pendulum, of what approaches.

Several of my co-workers came from the elementary level, and when we have some new paperwork thrown our way, their response is that the amount of paperwork in middle school is nothing compared to elementary schools.  It's why they both left the elementary school level.

I have a feeling that there is even less control over teachers at the high school level.  If I am wrong, someone let me know.  More importantly, I would love to hear what causes these differences?