Education

I didn't have that option. I had to change careers, put myself through college for a second degree and pass all the tests so that I could sub and make a living doing that until I got hired. I subbed 15-20 days a month, year round for two LONG years. When the state finally did class size reduction in 1996 I got hired first since I didn't cross the picket line and marched with the striking teachers (including my master teachers from student teaching) and they remembered that and suggested me to the principal when the new school year started.

Subbing sucked. It was as bad as teaching but in different ways I am 5'1" and those kids are mean, even the young ones. They threatened to key my car, etc. I always called the admin and they would always come and support me since this is how many subs are normally treated. I didn't smile for two years since if I did they took advantage of the situation immediately and I learned that lesson the first week that I subbed. I always let the teacher know by name what every single kid said and did. You have to document everything due to lawsuits, etc. When I became a teacher and had to get a sub I left 4 pages of detailed notes, more than enough for the class to fill the day, and several teachers to contact for help (and this was for first grade too).
Teachers get zero respect from 75% of the parents who think their kids are angels and rocket scientists. Low pay, working while ill, 50+ hour work weeks, school board bureaucratic/$$$ crap, and tons of paperwork make the profession pretty miserable. I was asked today by a neighbor if I liked teaching and I told her about 25% of it. I told all of my high school helpers over the years to NOT go into teaching. All of the teachers I have ever known have said the same thing. It is getting worse and worse every year. Now with carrying guns becoming an issue I wouldn't be surprised if no one wants to join the profession in the future.