Retirees Enjoy New Careers in Teaching

By Karen Lawson
karen.lawson@careerschooldirectory.com
Career School Directory Columnist

You've read the headlines. Baby boomers are retiring, but that doesn't mean they're content to sit around. That's right - no knitting or shuffleboard for this generation. Some even choose to start a whole new career. Want to join them? If you love kids and want to do something positive for education, a second career as a school teacher is right up your alley. Schools are short of qualified teachers, and you can earn your teaching degree online, at your own pace.

Retirees Contribute Life Experience to Teaching

Have you retired from a career you've enjoyed for decades, or are changing careers midlife after a layoff? Share your professional and personal experience with eager students. Maybe you are an architect or scientist who can bring a unique perspective and industry experience to your teaching. You can show students why math is important, or how scientific inquiry can cure disease or improve the environment.

Most states require public school teachers to complete a supervised teaching internship, and to pass a state licensing exam. If you already have a bachelor's degree, you may be able to get your teaching degree within a year.

Giving Back to Your Community through Teaching

If you don't want to commit to a full-time gig, you can use your teaching degree for short- or long-term substitute teaching. Many school districts have a shortage of qualified substitutes, and you can usually sign up for a teaching schedule that meets your needs. Other teaching opportunities include workforce education and college extension courses for vocation advancement or personal enrichment. Your new career as a school teacher may work both ways, as many teachers will say that they've learned as much through teaching as they have taught to their students.

About the Author
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include education and academic ethics. She holds an MA degree in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Posted on November 13, 2006 at 11:31 AM

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