Last night I went to an information session on an alternative route to teacher certification. I don't want to leave my job and become a teacher but I need to be prepared if I lose my job in this economy. I also want to be in a position to make choices if my pay gets cut. First-year teachers don't make any money, though.
So, program highlights: It costs about $975 to do the education portion and take the two required tests. The pass rate on each of the tests is about 50 percent. It takes about 8 to 10 months to finish the program but some have done it in less time. Here's the major downside ... completing the program gets you a temporary teaching permit for one year. To keep teaching you need to take two grad classes and go through a mentoring program through Point Park University. The cost -- around $8,000. On a first-year teacher's salary. Early career choices we make really are important. Starting over, even in your 30s, is tough. I think it's not an option. Anyway, I don't think I would be happy doing anything else but journalism, especially at a paper like supports me, respects me and encourages me as much as The Post-Gazette.
3 Comments
teach for america or similar programs not an option either? there are many in urban areas that pay you while getting your certification.
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Tracie
1/12/2010 06:00:18 am
My first blog comment. Yayy! Someone is actually reading my drivel!
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