Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

christy Posted: Jul 12, 2004 12:15 PM

Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

What made you decide to change careers? Why do you want to be a teacher? What would you like to teach?

I am a teacher, but I am always so interested when people change careers.

Also, if I can answer any teaching questions for you, let me know...

nov04LIbride Posted: Jul 12, 2004 12:57 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

I never thought about teaching, but I did consider going back to school for my Masters in Guidance Counseling (I never would because I know way too many people who have it and can't find jobs, but I have thought of it).

Honestly, the hours and summers off is the greatest draw for me. I would love to have school-type hours when I have kids (to get off about when they do in the afternoon), and havings summers off would mean not having to pay a sitter.

KerrC Posted: Jul 12, 2004 01:14 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

I am beginning my Masters in Education this fall...

I got my BA in English and American Literature. After college I was unsure what to do and ended up in Community Relations fund-raising for a non-profit child welfare agency. Teaching was always in the back of my mind.

I love the challenge, the hard work and of course my love of literature and the English Language.

Right now, every day is the same, I sit in an office and really don't feel that I am contributing...whereas, in a classroom every day is different. I love being in a learning environment.

Betty Posted: Jul 12, 2004 04:20 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

I've always felt like I wanted to do more with my life. When I turned 30 I decided to do something about it (don't know, something about that bday that makes you want to grow up).

I love children and it's something I've always thought about doing (vaca time isn't bad either:).

My biggest fear is not being able to manage my classroom Any tips for that???

edited to say: my degree (finished in Dec) will be elem (preer primary)and special ed......not too sure which I want to do yet b/c I don't have any experience with special ed.

swags1016 Posted: Jul 12, 2004 08:21 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

Betty, Regarding classroom management-

Be fair but stern, students respect teachers that they know are human and care about them. There will be days that they bounce off the walls, its just part of being a kid, but they will not normally misbehave for a teacher that they respect. You have to start with them from day one. If they know that you are there because you care and because you love teaching then they will love you!!!

I wish you guys the best in pursuing your careers in education. Feel free to ask any questions you have. I will try and help.

matron Posted: Jul 13, 2004 03:37 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

I went into teaching because I felt I was missing my calling. I kept moving up the ladder at my place of employment, and had to make the switch before I hit six figures, or I knew i'd never go through with it. I must say that I do love working with children, but now that I'm not finding a job, I regret my decision a little. I know I won't feel that way once I get a job though.

matron Posted: Jul 13, 2004 03:39 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

BTW, I went for my masters in childhood (elementary) ed. Seems everyone had the same idea at the same time!

Betty Posted: Jul 13, 2004 04:15 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

Thanks Swags, good advice!!

August2004 Posted: Jul 13, 2004 04:20 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

First off, I'll say thanks for offered help.

I am a career change because I'll be honest,

I LOVE MATH(that's right I said it - don't laugh at me )

and wanted to be a teacher to begin with, but it was not looked upon by my family as a 'lucrative' career. So , I sold out and went into Information Systems. Now, 4 years out of college, I am in a job I hate behind a desk all day. The real kicker is this, had I gone into teaching to begin with, I would probably be making more than I am right now and have job security and ABOVE ALL I would be happy and have job satisfaction.

I graduate in December yeah with my master's to teach Secondary Ed Math.

I am hoping to get a high school position.

christy Posted: Jul 13, 2004 05:14 PM

Re: Spinoff: For those who are going/went back to school to be teachers...

Good luck to all those entering the field of teaching! It is very hard to find a job and I consider myself to be so fortunate.

In response to the 'class management' question, I think this is my strongest assest as a teacher.

I think the key is to let the children know that you care about them, and they you expect their best behavior/work at all times. I am very structured (especially in the beginning months) and I try to never stray from the norm. Setting a routine and allowing the children to understand what is expected of them at all times makes for better management.