Elsie Said:

What happens at a physical required for a teaching job in California?

We Answered:

I doubt they'll take blood from a vein. The tests that require it are REALLY expensive. Typically you wouldn't have that done just for kicks, but only if you suspect that something is wrong.

You could probably refuse some tests, anyway.

Too bad you don't have a doctor already. I needed a physical too, and my doctor barely looked at me before signing the papers. She just listened to my lungs and heart, took blood pressure, and shone a light in my eyes that made me really dizzy.

If you haven't been to a doctor in a long time they might do more because it's their butt on the line if they say you're healthy and you're not.

Tommy Said:

There are no elementary teaching jobs available in So. California, what else can I do with my credentials?

We Answered:

Are you interested in working in Day Care. With your credentials I can see how you could easily become the director or supervisor of a daycare. I understand how frustrating it is to be an out of work teacher. Subbing just doesn't cut it. There is nothing like having your own classroom. Something may open up this summer when they post vacancies. Hang in there.

Alvin Said:

Will there be California teaching jobs in the near future?!?!?

We Answered:

Be sure that English education is an acceptable major. When I got my CA credential, education was not an accepted major for teaching. (Yes, I think it's stupid too, especially at the elementary level) but that's the way it was. Maybe things have changed. It's true that things are bad right now, but teachers are always needed. Our district fired 125 teachers, and they're now in the process of hiring them back. If you have your BA in 2012, then you'll have your credential in 2013. That's lots of time. Do what makes you happy. One thing that will help you -- schools look for people who are multi-qualified, so if you can teach more than one subject, or could coach a sport or speak a foreign language like Spanish, you'll have an advantage. Also, consider
a qualification in special ed. There is always a need for that.

Clayton Said:

Teaching Jobs & Life Skills: How do I find a teaching job in Southern California?

We Answered:

Look into private schools, also. One thing I did (that worked for a couple of months) was call every school in the phone book with, "Are you hiring?" I got hired to replace an eighth grade teacher who wanted to go elsewhere and teach something else (but then the principal didn't tell me when to start calling parents about homework not completed.) But it worked then. It could well work now; if it does, you'll be answering for a desperate person, tho, so be careful.