I am looking for career advice about teaching/training jobs.?

Question

I have my bachelor's degree and I currently teach in adult education and with English As a Second Language students. I love my job.. but they can't afford to take me on full time. I want to remain in the teaching/training/instruction field. I have tried thinking of everything, but I think there might be a career or two I have left out in my thought process. I basically want something where I am working with people, either one on one or in small groups. It doesn't have to be in education... I just don't want a desk job! Any ideas of any jobs I could do down the training route or others? I can't currently afford to get my master's and I don't want to be a standard teacher(our state has sols, and they are awful!), though I wouldn't mind working in a reading or literacy program. Any advice or links would be so helpful!

Answer 1

You did not say what your bachelor's degree as in.  If it is in Math or Science, you can take a test in some states (like California) and start teaching in that subject area in middle school or high school, but that is whole class instruction similar to ESL teaching.  You would get placed on the salary schedule and get benefits, however, assuming that there are jobs available.  This year even special ed, math and science positions are being cut.

If your BA is in another field, you may have to earn a special education credential.  That is typically 2/3 of a master's degree in special ed.  Since money is an issue, you may want to get yourself a raise by getting a high school position first and you could also speak to a counselor about working for a Title One school and getting tuition reimbursement. There are also student loans.  Some employers, like UPS, pay your tuition.

What you are describing as your ideal job sounds like either special education or tutoring.  Tutoring does not pay.  Special education has its own challenges.

Interestingly enough, I taught ESL for many years before I earned my master's in special education.  Even with 4 clear credentials, I may leave California this year to go where both my wife and I can find jobs.  Even with degrees, credentials, honors and skills, it is tough to make teaching a career right now.