Education

I've been racking my brain lately trying to decide whether to go back to school or not. Additional education can be a plus but I'm worried about the educational climate. I'd really like to avoid paying 20 grand for a masters degree and be in the same position 18 months later...unemployed.

I've decided not to start a masters program until I've secured a job. Maybe a future employer will help with the cost of this endeavor. No amount of schooling is without stress but the stress factor in finding a quality masters program has been grinding on me. I will continue to substitute teach and take each day one by one.

Substitute teaching has taught a lot about myself. I've learned that I can "calm" an out-of-control 1st grader with only a two-minute talk. I'm able to manage high school classrooms known for scaring off substitutes. Elementary school students still yell my name after just a single time substituting for their class. Middle school students recognize me around town and always "Hey, Mr. B." me.

Do I think I can be a good teacher? You bet but health teachers aren't treated the same as science (Health IS a science.), math or foreign language teachers. Teaching isn't all about cramming information down a student's throat. It's also about giving students confidence that they can trust the teacher. I'd consider myself a success if ONE student gained confidence in my classroom and applied that confidence throughout their other classes.

I work well with students and I know the teaching material. Hopefully, I'll have my own classroom soon.