Quote Originally Posted by David White View Post
....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!