Can I still be a teacher if I have a DUI?

Question

I got a DUI when I was 19 years old. I haven't drank since.

My dream is to be a teacher. I have a 3.95 GPA in college and I am going to grad school next year to obtain a masters in psychology.

I deeply regret my DUI but I have learned so much from it. I completely changed my life for the better. I got away from the party atmosphere and stopped hanging out with the friends that would pressure me to drink.

It really hurts when people say "I wouldn't want a convicted drunk driver teach my child."

Do they think that people can never change?

Can some people please give me some advice?

Answer 1

I dont really think so but make sure it i stated in your job application.  Teachers are really needed, the government is even taking some from the outside world and we dont know what they have done back there.  Yes, you can! as long as change is your moto.

Answer 2

One of my teachers had a DUI in college.... I would like too tell ya it wont effect your chances of becoming a teacher but on a resume for job position where you are a role model it doesnt look good too have a criminal record. Best of luck!

Answer 3

In my state (Wisconsin) the first DUI is not considered a criminal offense.  (The subsequent ones are though).  If the same is true in your state (you should find out) then there is no need to divulge such minor information on an application even if the application asks if you've ever been convicted of a crime, because it wouldn't be a crime, it would be a traffic violation.  You wouldn't put all of your speeding tickets on your job application, would you?

I happen to be in your exact situation.  I have one DUI and I teach in a technical college, fully licensed.

Answer 4

Yes, I know an elementary school teacher who spent prison time for transporting a large amount of drugs from another country.  Of course that was in like 1972, but still it was a felony with a prison sentence.

Answer 5

Honesty is the best policy my friend.

On any applications for jobs etc, Declare your conviction (obviously) then when you fill in the personal statement or relevant information section then get it out first, tell them what you did, how you've changed and what you've learned and then back it up with your skills and what you can offer a school.

I'd like to be able to say that it won't cause a problem but I'm sure if you have the skills/ability to be a good teacher then you'll be able to find a school that can look past your DUI.

Good Luck and don't give up.

(I'm taking teacher training in the UK and a conviction wont automatically rule out a teaching job)