Golden Oldie

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2001 : October : 15

Golden Oldie
By Mary in MA

Let me chime in with the thoughts from the other posters. I decided to go back to college at age 40 to get certified to teach. I had been a stay-at -home mom for 11 years but had volunteered in school, scouts, and as a
literacy tutor for much of that time. In the back of my head, I always had the nagging feeling that I should become a teacher.
When my only child was in fourth grade going into fifth, my husband and I decided that it was time to do what I had always wanted to do. I had several acquaintances question my choice, especially at "my age", but I took the position that God willing I would

still get older and still be wondering "what if" whether I took the plunge or not.

I will be quite honest with you. Not all districts look favorably on older candidates; you may encounter some that are anxious to offer you subbing jobs, either per diem or interim, because of your life and parenting experience , but are not as forthcoming about permanent full-time contracts. I actually had one principal confirm this for me off the record. It took me seven years of interim placements and close-but-no-cigar interviews to finally achieve my goal, but I am finally there and it was worth every minute of anxiety I went through.

Soooo, if it is your dream, GO FOR IT!!!!!!! Don't let the naysayers discourage you. Just think how much you have to offer to those future students who are struggling with their own school issues.

Best of luck to you and keep us posted on your progress.