I think I need to change career paths.

I really need to vent. I'm extremely depressed about my current career situation. I am part of the long list of people that are certified to teach and cannot find a public school job. I teach pre-school and while I enjoy it DH and I are suffering financially. I have a BA in English and an MS in Elem. Ed. As much as I love teaching I have to be realistic about other goals that I have (like TTC and wanting a house). So I'm trying to think of other things I would be good at and I'm not sure what direction to go in. I'm trying to avoid going back to school because we just can't afford it, but I've been considering Early Childhood Special Ed. I don't know if anyone has advice or ideas using my BA instead of my MS. I'm just feeling very broken and frustrated lately.

Re: I think I need to change career paths.

I have no useful advice; I just figured I would jump in and empathize. I am in the same boat and it's sinking.

I am already a career changer who went back to school in my late twenties for my Master's. I can't make another change for a slew of practical reasons.

I am temping in a job that is semi related to my old field and looking in both fields at this point (corporate and education.)

I was offered a job to teach at Riker's Island and I just turned it down for a host of reasons. I posted about it on the Teachers board. If you want the info let me know. I want to teach so badly that I question the decision even though I made it with my gut.

I don't know what to do at this point either. I have tried all the obvious paths.

Re: I think I need to change career paths.

I can relate somewhat to your situation. I only have my BA in Speech Pathology and although there is a great demand in this area I cannot teach because I am not licensed. (its a complicated story). My life is being held back i.e. house, kids etc. because of this. It is VERY depressing. I think going into Special Ed. is a great move. There is def. a demand in that area. Its probably not easy but there is a demand. Good luck!

Re: I think I need to change career paths.

I would not assume that Special Ed is "easy". One of my son's therapist told me that now they are almost expecting 2 masters to work in schools for early childhood. It's getting very competitive!

You could work in EI but it's not like a
school. You are paid depending on the number of cases you have.

I would really try NOT to change career. Especially if you plan on having children. Being a teacher is a great benefit for working moms.

Re: I think I need to change career paths.

Re: I think I need to change career paths.

I would apply to local school districts for a teaching assistant position..I am sure they are a dime a dozen..but you never know..Keep checking their websites. Sometimes positions open up during the school year.

You can make in your twenties and get full benefits...depending on the position. You can also tutor for extra cash.

Good luck!

Re: I think I need to change career paths.

My sister was in your shoes almost two decades ago, clearly nothing has changed in that time.

She taught in private (catholic) school for about five years and after so many failed attempts at getting a job on LI she sent her resume to a couple of schools in CT.

Shortly after, she landed a job and has now been up there for almost 15 years making great money and loving it.

Have you considered submitting your resume to public schools in the city? Or in the tri-state area?

Good luck...

Re: I think I need to change career paths.