How do you stay current as an out of work special education teacher? (masters degree, license) - Teaching -Issues affecting teachers - City-Data Forum

catdeoh · 06-09-2008, 11:11 PM

I am currently staying home to raise my two children 3 and 2. This is by choice, for we did not want to put our kids in day care. We would rather sacrifice the luxaries in life before resorting to leaving our children with day care providers. No disrespect to all the day care providers... I know a lot of parents who would be lost without this service. My husband and I planned to start a family after one year of being married, for I still had a year left of college.

I could use some suggestions on how to stay current in this field without having to take scheduled classes. Do you think going to teacher seminars is enough? I really can not afford to tackle my masters degree yet, but I do plan on taking online courses for a master's degree in the near future. I plan on going back to work in about 2-3 years. My children are older now, so I can get out once in a while to attend a seminar. I do have some help from in-laws and my parents.

stepka · 06-10-2008, 10:23 AM

It seems to me like you should address that question to the administrators of the school you last worked for. Are you going back to the same school? Or did you work for a school? IF not, ask your university. The states have different laws of course, which is why we couldn't be much help to you here.

catdeoh · 06-10-2008, 11:28 AM

I live in NJ. I do not have any other experience in teaching besides student teaching. I finished college and then started my family. You are right I need to contact the admintrators of my school. They are always too busy to answer e-mails. I will have to visit in person.

novanative75 · 06-10-2008, 01:34 PM

You are in special education, a high need area, you could live under a rock for five years and get a job when you came out.

golfgal · 06-11-2008, 05:13 AM

Like others have said it depends on your state and how many continuing ed credits you need. In MN there is no way to keep your license current without taking your CE classes. I don't know if that is true everywhere. Do you have a teacher from your old district that is in charge of submitting your credits, etc. for your license? Ask that person what needs to be done. You might also need some student contact hours so an occasional sub job might be required too.

photobuff42 · 06-11-2008, 05:43 PM

Check with your state department of education for their requirements in renewing licensure. You might also want to check out CECs website.