Re: How to get out of Teaching
 

Hello All,
I've lurked on this forum numerous times and just decided to join. Hope this isn't off topic. But, I thought it would be nice to get the advice of other college educated people who could help me on my path. I am entering my 8th year of teaching. Having previously taught kindergarten, special ed, and now English language learners, I am really tired of teaching. I've gone from hating to loving it. Bad schools (I nicknamed my first school "Fair Eastside") to better schools. My problem is that I just feel it is time to move on with my life and explore other options. I have applied to the US Dept of Ed and almost everytime the jobs I've applied for they have been cancelled. I realize that I've stayed in the field so long, that making a complete career change may cause me to take a salary cut. Don't get me wrong I am desperately underpaid, like many other teachers. But, I happen to live in an area that has some of the highest teacher salaries in the nation, and the salary I make now is the not a salary for an entry level position. I hold a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and returning to school is not an option because I have kids and a husband. I wanted to know if there are any former teachers out there who have transitioned to other jobs and not principalships (do not want to go there). I would like to become a coordinator/facilitator and work with families, or getting kids off to college. Any suggestions? What is there out there for former teachers?

I, for one, think there is a lot out there for former teachers. I was an educator for about four years all together.

You could be a Site Director for an after school program like I was. In DC, the top two out-of-school time programs are Heads Up and the Higher Achievement Program.

There are other nonprofits like City at Peace which are also not during school time but focus on developing youth in positive ways.

If you've taught English Language Learners, it might make you look good for nonprofits such as the Latin American Youth Center or La Clinica del Pueblo in DC -- even if you don't actually speak Spanish, it will look favorable that you are used to being in diverse environments.

Personally, I made the transition to Development (fundraising). It's not perfect, but I really enjoy the relationship building aspects of it.

Many people who were teaching fellows look for jobs in education policy, so while you might not necessarily find a job at the US deparment of education, you might be able to find openings with think tanks who work with them.

I strongly suggest visiting www.idealist.org and browsing the job listings in your area to get a good idea of your interests. That sector is always looking for people who can think outside the box, but can do the work.

Wow, thanks it helps that I live in the area. I will definitely look into those programs. Good info!

Small world! Send me a PM if you'd like to talk more in depth.

just a thought
 

try policy. i know a number of educators who have moved on to the policy side and to me are great advocates for the importance of teacher pay, better pay structures and bargaining rights.

good luck with whatever you decide!!!

Also, if you still like the instruction side, check out consulting or corporate training.