I'm going to teach...

[Eujeankilt]

Congratulations on following your heart. My wife taught and now is the director at a private childcare/school and she works with special needs kids. It's alot of work but alot of reward too.

int: A toast to your new midlife course correction!

Dale

[Warlock]

Congratulations! My Adult Vacational Teaching assignment is coming to an end after 7 years. I know that you will enjoy the dad to day challenges. My Dreadbelly Tam is off to you, Laddie!

[Tattoo Bradley]

Teaching takes a special person. I wanted to persue a career in teaching at one point. My tattoos would most likely hold me back from that now. But, that's okay. I don't really think it would be for me any how.

[Tartan Hiker]

As a life-long teacher myself let me be the first to welcome you to the club! If your years "behind the desk" turn out to be half as rewarding as mine have been you'll be a happy man indeed.

Bill

[Frog]

I've worked with kids with special needs for over twenty years, my wife has a similar background - one thing for sure, it's never boring!

Frog

[porrick]

....when I finish my class. After two year's of substituting teaching I've made the choice to get my teaching degree, in Special Education. I need to finish this class I'm taking then I can get my temporary. Then about 30 hours over the next three years. Scared about this? Heck yes. But I will make a great teacher.

Mid-life changes? It could be worse.

Sounds like you are doing what many others should: following your heart.
Teaching at a teacher training college, I experience that the more mature students (40+) have so much more to offer through experience than the 19 year-olds that start their studies. Assuming you have children, I strongly believe the experience of not only parenting, but also being old enough to reflect on what has been attempted/achieved in that area, as a huge asset in teaching in general - and specifically within special needs.

I find it interesting and a relief that you also refer to what you are doing as a mid-life change I will not comment on what I think about the term "mid-life crises... Other than a first time Harley purchase, a convertible, skydiving, completing a marathon race or a much younger wife does not necessarily solve all

My mid-life change? I've long had a dream to learn to play an instrument, and my mid-life situation gives me the peace of mind and time to do just that. I just feel a little sorry for my dear wife and neighbours who have to put up with me learning to play the bagpipes... As my 6 year old son says: "Daddy, you know they have practice rooms at college?"

From experience, I quit law school to pursue a degree in teaching and teacher training, and have never regretted - and it sounds like you too are doing the right thing.

I'm no fan of wishing "good luck", as being a teacher involves hard work and dedication (not luck). So: bon voyage!

[David Dalglish]

Congratulations on your life changing decision. I use to teach motorcycling from novice to an advanced level. It is great to see pupils, who cannot ride, recieve the skills to get onto the road safely. Some of my pupils, went onto an advanced level, this gave me special satisfaction, to see them pass the rigourous test. It is nice to think that my small contribution to motorcycling, may have saved a few lives. Teaching is rewarding, you will not regret your decision, WELL DONE

[GMan]

My hat is off to you.

[ronstew]

I am in a similar boat - mid-life career change at age 44. I have a practicum starting in two weeks, and 14 weeks later, I should have my certification in secondary math and physics. I certainly do not have the temperament for special ed. That's for the patient and resourceful people.

[ckelly327]

Congratuations on a tough decision. My stepdaughter teaches remedial reading in an inner city school and I don't know how she does it. I spent time as a classroom aide in our local ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens) and I know how tough it can be in a special ed environment. I'm still thinking about going back to it if I can go back as a teacher instead of an aide.

Enjoy the experience and follow your heart.