https://boards.hellobee.com/ Pregnancy, Baby and Parenting blog, by Hellobee en Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:40:02 +0000 https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1125157 Wed, 02 Oct 2013 00:51:54 +0000 Anagram 1125157@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: in my old state (Texas) yes....but in my me state (nj) they will let ppl work as school librarians without an MLS. E check your state school librarian certificate requirements. Also, lots of,states (Texas was one) let you work as a librarian as you are completing your classes. I got hired when I had taken only 2 classes over the summer! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124988 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:54:41 +0000 Ra 1124988@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Anagram: I only have my BS at this point. Would I need an MS in library science to be a school librarian? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124973 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:49:18 +0000 Anagram 1124973@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: honestly...if they only pull your license for a year...i would just quit and take the 1 year penalty--is that why you are looking for other jobs?</p> <p>Especially because you are required to stay in that job for 3 years. It's not just sticking it out for THIS year, it's 2 more years after this year. I was a teacher in a low-income middle school for 5 years and my first year I had an all-day, self-contained ED class. It was much like you are describing. It was the hardest thing I've ever done and I only had to do it 1 semester (then my principal saw the light and started integrating the students into regular ed classes with aides)--and I did NOT have a newborn! I absolutely would not have kept that job for 3 years.</p> <p>If you are looking at future jobs--I'm a school librarian and LOVE IT. It's not super easy finding a job, but when you do...best job ever. You still work with kids, but you don't grade homework and you don't take work home (well...rarely). And you still get holidays and summers off. </p> <p>I have 2 different friends who had to go on anti-depressants to finish out the school year when they had horrible classes in horrible schools with no support. It's one thing to do that when you're single, but when you have a baby at home and you want to be mentally well to spend time with them--it isn't worth it.</p> <p>my two cents! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124968 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:47:27 +0000 Ra 1124968@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@Mrs. Taco: Thank you! I appreciate your help! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124964 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:44:41 +0000 Ra 1124964@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@matador84: The evals thus far have been informal drop-ins. So, I don't think they need to follow any protocol but they still go in my file.</p> <p>His remarks on this last eval were simply not true. My IA was flabbergasted when she saw them. We also noted and changed everything he remarked on last eval, but instead of commenting on those aspects, he found others to nitpick. We use the Danielson framework which is supposed to be evidence based and objective. In the training we received, we were told that in order to receive an unsatisfactory rating you would essentially have to be a warm body in the classroom with the kids out of control. You have to address NOTHING tone ineffective.</p> <p>Meanwhile, my kids were actually really good by their standards. The issues were that there were some side convos during the drill (they are always hyper after transition) and I didn't address each student individually. Also, that I allowed some students to have their heads on their desks and books in lap while reading (even though I constantly circulated to ensure students were reading and he approached two students and asked where we were in the book and they pointed our exactly the correct spot). His preference that heads be up does not warrant an ineffective in my opinion.</p> <p>I'm not the type who can't take criticism. I welcome constructive criticism that will help me grow in my craft. I cannot deal with this "gotcha!"method of eval though. Why would you want to tear your teachers down like that? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124952 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:40:38 +0000 Mrs. Taco 1124952@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: OMGosh, I have chills reading your posts. I was exactly where you were a few years ago. I seriously believe I was in a state of depression because I was SO anxious every night about going into work the next day, (9th graders but same story). I could offer a plethora of advice on management if you would like...it took a lot of work but once I got that under control, everything else got so much better. All I can say is, if you really do want to teach, and want to stick this year out, I'd love to give you any help/advice/support I can. I don't know you...but I was you, just a few years ago. I'm going to put my info on your wall if you'd like to talk...I don't want to keep rambling with unsolicited advice on management techniques for alternative school students.</p> <p>Keep your head up. Lots of hugs being sent your way :heart: </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124933 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:32:13 +0000 mrs.shinerbock 1124933@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Maybe a non-profit that works in education? My sister has worked for several and they hire employees with teaching degrees. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124931 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:31:40 +0000 Ra 1124931@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@swedishfish: Some, but not all. Maybe 10-12 out of 45? </p> <p>Maryland is a union state. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124929 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:31:15 +0000 matador84 1124929@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: Are you a union state or non-union state? That is absurd about your license. What a sick disservice to teachers. If you are union, I would ABSOLUTELY call your union. If you are non-union and a member of a professional organization, please call your professional organization. </p> <p>Most states also have legal guidelines concerning teacher evaluations. If you have been deemed ineffective, then you should be receiving certain supports. I would request for your evaluator to come sit in your classroom and request a follow up conference immediately. Document everything, I would suggest via email. Does your campus or district have a mentoring program for first year teachers? If you aren't getting the support you need at your campus, I would look in higher places at the district level where you can receive support. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124909 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:26:02 +0000 swedishfish 1124909@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: do these students have BIPs for you to follow? Is Maryland a union state? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124886 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 20:19:32 +0000 Ra 1124886@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Thank you ladies for your support!</p> <p>In Maryland, you are obligated by contract to stay in one school until you are tenured (3 years). If you break contract, the state pulls your license for a year as a penalty.</p> <p>I understand that the first year is difficult. It just sucks because in a comprehensive school you at least have SOME good kids. All of my kids are at my school because their homeschool could not handle them. I like most of them, but a class full of behavior issues is a lot. In 90 minutes, I get maybe 30 mins of instruction in on a good day. It's horrible.</p> <p>I have come up as ineffective in management on 2 observations. Granted, I have a lot to learn, but his comments are ridiculous. There are no positives and no helpful suggestions. He hasn't even sat with me to discuss; he just puts them in my mailbox.</p> <p>I'm miserable. I feel bad because I know these kids have few aspects of their lives that are constant, but it also need to think about my own mental health and my emotional availability for my son.</p> <p>I just don't think I'm cut out for this. :(. I'm literally on the brink of a nervous breakdown. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124797 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 19:49:18 +0000 mrs. 64 1124797@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: I'm sorry things are so tough right now. It sounds like you are in a very difficult and demanding situation with little support. Like everyone else has said, the first year is HARD, but it does get better. I'm one state below you and we also have the suspended license thing. Honestly, I would try to make it through the year while exploring options for once the school year is over. If you don't think that's doable, I would try to set a short term deadline to reevaluate- for example, say I'm going to tough this out until the end of the 1st quarter and then see how I feel. Hang in there lady. I know you're a great teacher. I hope things work out however is best for you and your family. :heart: </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124786 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 19:42:15 +0000 photojane 1124786@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Tutoring? Private tutors and teachers can make a lot &amp; you would get super flexible hours. I have a friend who tutors elementary-aged kids for $40/hour, and another who teaches math and science to a home-schooled high shooler for even more! Kids in the hospital need private teachers as well! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124770 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 19:37:01 +0000 matador84 1124770@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>What state are you in? I can't imagine that being legal that they would suspend your license if you were to resign your job. In most districts, if you resign during the year, you can't work within that district, but you can apply in other districts elsewhere.</p> <p>Do you have an actual degree in education? Or is it a content area degree? You can look into the social work field, but can often be just as difficult as teaching it. Sometimes community or junior colleges hire if you have the right expertise. </p> <p>It is very difficult teaching in a place with no administrative support, much less in a difficult position with difficult students. I am very sorry that you lack that support. Don't give up. I taught in an extremely poor, dangerous middle school my first year teaching and it got a million times better in the following years. I read a lot of inspirational books, ha ha! Plus, teaching with a newborn is extremely difficult also. Wall me if you want to talk more...I am a school administrator. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124639 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 18:23:15 +0000 MamaBehr 1124639@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: I know that having an unsupportive administration sucks. I use to teach at an inner city charter school, and I always said I can fight with the kids or the administration, not both. The first year of teaching is super hard, overwhelming, full of work, little reward, and kind of sucks. That being said, just think if you really like teaching. If you do, than it is worth sticking it out. You can always look for a new job next school year. And, just think of the sweet little bundle of joy you have eagerly waiting for you to get home! I found my charter school job to become a little more manageable after I had my daughter, because she gave my life more purpose. Also, the beginning of the school year is so much harder, after you get a few grading periods under your belt, and you know the kids better, it does get a little better. </p> <p>If you don't like teaching you could do online tutoring, teach at a community college (if you have your Master's Degree), teach SAT/ACT test prep (I love this!!! I wish I could just do it full time), or just sub until you find a job you do like. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124589 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:58:57 +0000 sslm 1124589@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm sorry :( I hate my job too and it isn't nearly as difficult as yours!</p> <p>What about working in training? Or teaching at a community college or something like that? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124583 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:56:34 +0000 Boheme 1124583@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Do they suspend your license forever or temporarily? Do private school teachers have to be licensed in your state?<br /> What do you want to do career wise? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124579 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:53:53 +0000 gilmoregirl 1124579@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>My first year teaching was so difficult (remedial 11th-grade English, so not as severe perhaps as what you are dealing with, but lots of IEPs, ES, and otherwise "problem" students). I used to drive to school each day hoping I'd get in a car accident just so I could have a break from teaching. I didn't want it to be too serious or anything, but I was in a dark, terrible place. </p> <p>I can't imagine doing that with a newborn at home, I really can't, but I do think you're not going through something that is completely abnormal for a first year teacher. My school year this year has been a complete 180 from last year. I've been so, so first trimester sick, but I feel so much more able to handle the things that have come my way and I'm enjoying my job a lot more. </p> <p>You obviously have to do what's best for you and your family, but I just wanted to jump in to say that I've been there and I hope things work out for you. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124532 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:32:33 +0000 T.H.O.U. 1124532@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>What about a virtual school? Florida is always looking for teachers. The state and district education departments also like to hire teachers. </p> <p>What about assessment or content drafting or reviewing. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124529 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:32:00 +0000 Rubies 1124529@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Being a first year teacher SUCKS...But doing it with a newborn must be so HARD. My advice is to stick it out...It will get better, I promise! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124521 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:29:23 +0000 Happygal 1124521@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>I'm so sorry. Teaching is a consuming job, especially in your first year.</p> <p>I don't know how they can suspend your license--where I live, that wouldn't be allowed! </p> <p>If you want to remain in a classroom setting, perhaps a private school or different grade would be a better fit.</p> <p>You can do work for educational publishing companies. Based on your credentials, you can make good money tutoring as well. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124494 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:15:02 +0000 swedishfish 1124494@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: you teach history, correct? <a href="http://www.ewu.edu/Documents/CSBSSW/History/Advising%20Documents/Besides%20Teaching.pdf" rel="nofollow">http://www.ewu.edu/Documents/CSBSSW/History/Advising%20Documents/Besides%20Teaching.pdf</a> </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124488 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:09:19 +0000 loveisstrange 1124488@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>What's your subject area? Maybe something related to that? </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124487 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:08:40 +0000 swedishfish 1124487@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>How can they suspend your license if you choose to leave? That's ridiculous! </p> <p>What about a company that's in the education business such as Pearson? You can make our tests better! </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124486 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:08:23 +0000 deerylou 1124486@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>@rahlyrah: Oh, sweetie, I'm sorry. I know how difficult it is to teach difficult student populations in an alternative setting. How long is your contract? I assume you have a single subject credential if you're teaching middle school, but I could be wrong. If holding out until the school year ends is possible, I would definitely suggest teaching elementary next year. I was in a middle school setting for two school years, and I really didn't like it. I couldn't be happier working with younger children in elementary settings; the atmosphere is more positive and lighthearted, there's more unity between educators, excitement amongst parents, and administrative support.</p> <p>Otherwise, you could always work for a tutoring company, and make a nice hourly wage (SAT, ACT prep, or just specific subject matter) I've known an ex-teacher who freelanced from home, writing textbook content. Look into your local libraries, museums, and other kid-centric non profit orgs for job opportunities. </p> <p>Best of luck, and feel free to wall me to vent. I can totally relate to your woes. </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124481 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:05:17 +0000 CupQuakeWalk 1124481@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>So, you can't leave either way because of your contract?<br /> And I'm so sorry you're going through this. That sounds rough!! :heart: </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124476 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:03:20 +0000 blackbird 1124476@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Big companies hire people with teaching backgrounds to train adults and create coursework for them </p> https://boards.hellobee.com/topic/what-can-i-do-with-a-teaching-degree#post-1124471 Tue, 01 Oct 2013 17:00:58 +0000 Ra 1124471@https://boards.hellobee.com/ <p>Besides teaching?</p> <p>I hate my job. I cry almost every night. I work at an alternative school teaching 7th graders who are emotionally disturbed, bipolar, and other mental disorders and behavioral issues.</p> <p>As a first year teacher with a newborn it is just too much. My administration provides no support; they are the type that rips apart everything you do without providing any helpful suggestions.</p> <p>Another school is not an option because if I break my contract they will suspend my license. </p>