Will a misdemeanor marijuana conviction keep me from:

Question

becoming a foster parent or adopting

getting a job in early childhood education (teaching)

Thank you

Answer 1

It likely will keep you from becoming a teacher in most states.  You will be required to divulge the details of ALL convictions, felonies and misdemeanors, and state the details of the conviction.  Since it is for drug-related offenses, most teacher credentialing commissions or school districts will refuse your application for a teaching job based on the following generic criteria:

1)  Previous immoral or unprofessional conduct

2)  Dishonesty (if you lie about the conviction in any way)

3)  Evident unfitness for service

4)  Previous violation of state or federal law

5)  ONE KEY ONE:  CONVICTION OF ANY FELONY OR CRIME INVOLVING MORAL TURPITUDE

6)  BIGGEST FACTOR:  PREVIOUS ALCOHOLISM OR OTHER DRUG ABUSE WHICH COULD MAKE THE CANDIDATE UNFIT TO INSTRUCT OR ASSOCIATE WITH CHILDREN.

However, if you completely disclose the conviction and have demonstrated "moral perpetuity" within the past few years, some districts or commissions may give you a second chance.

Good luck applying!

Answer 2

I don't know about foster parenting or adopting, but in most US states you will not be able to get a teaching certificate and/or a teaching job with any such conviction on your record.  I wouldn't hold your breath about adopting a child either.

Sorry.  It's amazing how our stupid mistakes come back to haunt us, isn't it?

Answer 3

probably so . . . children and drugs dont mix

Answer 4

It might.. You've just become a victim in the war on drugs.

I got off lucky in comparison.. I got a deferred sentence.

I know that it will prevent you from receiving financial aid.

Here's what I can tell you..

When they do a search it's going to show up something like this..

1 arrest marij  1 conviction marij..

I'm sorry these swine have done you in like this just for smoking a harmless plant.