Derrick Said:

I live 3 1/2 hours away from my fiancee and we can't afford to be together, any suggestions? Thanks!?

We Answered:

I would check out a job search website and search for jobs in those areas in your field.

Bobby Said:

Why don't 50 yr. fem. get elem. teach jobs? Rdg. cert. Teach in State kids' psych. hosp. Get MS in Spec. ed?

We Answered:

You are certainly qualified. That is the problem. I am currently a senior early childhood major (about to start my student teaching). I have been told countless times that I need to get a job before I go for my master's degree because if I go straight for my master's degree after graduating with my BA, schools will not hire me because I would be higher on the pay scale. School districts want to hire someone who is just starting out. They want to pay the lowest amount possible. Seeing as I am a female, I am also against the odds getting a job immediately because schools are searching for males to be early childhood teachers. A male would be hired before me anyday and schools look at the fact that males can coach sports. It's unfortunate about your situation. With your experience, any school would be lucky enough to have you.

Good luck.

Javier Said:

Why pursue a graduate degree in the field of professional education?

We Answered:

you are not looking for a degree in 'professional' education, yo are looking for middle school/high school education. Big difference.....

Mistake #1 was going to Brockport instead of Potsdam for education: Potsdam has a better placement rate than any other SUNY in Education.

Marshall Said:

Alternatives for teaching?

We Answered:

You don't say what level you are certified to teach or in what area you have experience. Since you want to stay on Long Island, think about getting certified in science, math, or exceptional student education. These are areas where there are teacher shortages nationwide. Also check with NY state DOE to find out what they consider critical teaching area shortages, they may have a longer list than the 3 listed above. Also consider inner-city schools, they are tough, but they would get your foot in the door.

If you were inclined to move, there are states that have teacher shortages in all areas. You would have a better chance of getting a position in an area that is experiencing growth. With the glut of teachers looking for positions in your area, the competition is going to remain very stiff for a long time. You need to do something (such as another certification in an area where there are shortages) to distance yourself from the pack and make your resume stand out in order to get the attention of administrators.

Also take a look at your resume. Is it blah, ordinary, run of the mill? Or does it stand out and shout "hey, look at me!"? You might want to go to an employment/headhunter firm and ask for their help in recrafting your resume to make it stand out from the rest.

Brent Said:

If a teacher has NYS teaching certification, which southern and/or western states would grant them reciprocity?

We Answered:

I do not have a concrete answer. But, I have heard that the standards for teachers in the South are far less than in the North. Teachers moving to the South from states like New York and especially Connecticut are highly regarded and in demand. I know Connecticut and California have the toughest standards for certifying and educating teachers in the country.

I believe New York is also highly regarded too. Where would you like to relocate? I've heard Florida is dying for good teachers and their public education system is horrible. I was thinking about moving there myself and becoming a teacher. I read on a website that teachers from the North are in high demand and are often paid stipends and increased salaries.

Frank Said:

Student teaching NYS Certification?

We Answered:

You should consult the NYS certification website. They address just about any question you might have. Good luck.

Chester Said:

Because I don't accept Jesus Christ as my lord & savior, will I have less of chance of getting a teaching job?

We Answered:

its no ones business what/if you believe. keep your (non)beliefs to yourself if you don't feel comfortable discussing it and im sure you will get a job because you are qualified. im sure the economy will have a greater effect on your job status than your personal beliefs.