Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

Iam looking to change careers and at 32 years oldf and finally decided to become a teacher- which was something I always wanted to do.
Anyway, did anyone else do this later in life ? Besides school...what else can I do to prepare and educate myself???
Any advice woulkd be great!
TIA ..Have a great day!

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

i changed careers at 25 form HR to teaching. I had to get my masters and i had to find a job whihc was alittle easier 6 years ago to do in teh city than it is now due to certification requirerments and all. good luck

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

Look into the certification requirements and make sure you've done everything (like take the teacher tests). Also, be open to being a TA (teaching assistant) or sub your first year or so. There's an overload of teachers on Long Island and many districts (though not all) like to hire people with experience, so it's very common for people to TA, sub or work in the city for 1-2 years before getting a lead teacher position on Long Island. Though it also depends on where you'll be applying. I believe Suffolk may be more in need than Nassau for teachers.

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

I love being in the classroom it is so rewarding. One piece of advice though if you don't have an "in" learn Spanish.

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

I did not change over to teaching from another career, but I'd probably say:
*Make a plan: classes to take, exams, timeline, etc,
*Make sure you get all the info for exactly what you need for your certification(s). The school will help you, but I feel like some of my friends who are newer found the changing requirements confusing.
*Be flexible: know that you might have to sub etc. as you go along. Know also that your work schedule (depending on what you do now) might go all out the window with Student Teaching, classes, etc.
*Read...check out professional books to see if there is an area you really love for maybe a second certification (literacy, special ed., etc.)
*Enjoy it! If your heart is in it, then youl'l do awesome and have lots of success!

Message edited 8/8/2007 8:51:16 AM.

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

I switched from Accounting to teaching. It took me 3 years to get a job on Long Island but I am happy I waited.

I got dually certified in math and business and landed a middle school math job in queens and a high school business job on long island this year. I went with the HS business job.

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

I changed careers at 26 and became a teacher. I had to get an MA and certification. I would go to a few colleges or contact BOCES and find out exactly what you need then come up with a plan. It's a lot of work and the job hunt is frustrating -- but it's all worth it

Re: Becoming A Teacher - X Post from NFR

Thanks everyone for the advice!!!