Have you ever...?

[Josephine96]

Have you ever thought about doing something, and put it off and kept putting it off and then you end up doing it anyway..

That might be going on with me right now. Ever since my senior year at Gateway HS back in 2000-2001, I have been told by many of my friends, teachers, and fellow parents of my friends that I'd make a great teacher.

Well every so often.. I have had a voice in my head that's been saying.. "As much as you love to report and write.. give teaching a shot..". Well, ever since about Thursday, that voice has been getting louder again. Only this time it's the loudest it's been lol..

If I do go ahead and pursue teaching, it'll make me feel like I just wasted 2 years of school because I just got my associates' degree in Journalism. I really like to write, but the fact that everyone tells me I'd make a great teacher is making me curious.

If you're wondering.. I'd probably teach 5th or 6th graders. I do not have the patience for K-4th graders. I think HS kids are a bit too much on the immature side. 7th and 8th graders I'd probably also do OK with.. But I think I'd rather deal with the 5th or 6th grade crowd. I used to coach Little League Baseball and the kids I coached were 5th or 6th graders.

For the subject.. I'd probably teach English if it were a middle school {6th graders}. I also would like to see if I can get a plan in place where kids can take an alternative to PE. Before you blast me on that proposal here me out lol..

Because of the shunt I have.. I was not allowed to take PE till I got to high school. It tore me up that I wasn't allowed to be out there. But that is also how I became such a big sports fan because I'd always read about sports or watch games when I got home from school.

My Idea would be this. Have a "Sports Information" Class offered as an elective for 6th graders. Students could learn about certain aspects in sports and about famous sports celebrities. I would also only offer the class to students who can't take PE. But they'd have to have a legitimate reason as to why they can't.

Feel free to chime in on this. I've even already decided which school I'd want to teach at if I chose to go into the teaching field lol..

Opinions welcomed

[wx247]

As a former journalism major turned education major... I think it is the best decision you could make. The pay won't be great and the hours will be long, but you will love it.

[Josephine96]

You know.. I know a lot of Journalism majors that have become education majors instead lol..

I'll talk to a few people before I make a final decision. I really think I'd be a great teacher, but I also know I am a darn good reporter and writer..

I always thought Journalism was my calling,. Maybe its not..

[Rainband]

John Follow your heart and your mind will handle the rest!! Good luck in whatever avenue you chose!!! You will do very well with either choice!!

[Josephine96]

Thanks for the extra vote of confidence Johnathan.. It's a tough decision.. I know whichever I make.. I'll be happy..

[Rainband]

Thanks for the extra vote of confidence Johnathan.. It's a tough decision.. I know whichever I make.. I'll be happy..

Anytime bud.

[wx247]

John, have you thought about teaching journalism?

[coriolis]

Part of your decision should depend on the practicalities. I'd think that teaching jobs are easier to get. Teaching what you want may not be as easy. Teachers get the summers off (when they're not doing continuing education). Schools are very political and you have to put up with the "system." Journalism may allow you more freedom, but your job would be much less secure. Where do most journalists work? Newspapers? You would probably get many humdrum assignments for every interesting one. That kind of job would be very deadline-critical.

Either way, you'd be dealing with people.

There's my 2 cents.

[Josephine96]

Thank you Coriolis.. and Garrett.. My mother actually asked me that same question this afternoon lol..

Most journalists do work at newspapers, some work in Tv as well..

Tough call to make. My pastors' wife is a 5th grade teacher.. I'm going to see if maybe she can help me with my dilemma. I plan on talking to a lot of teachers this week to get their opinions..

[azskyman]

I taught mostly 5th and 6th grade for the better part of 10 years (1967-1977). Some of those kids still keep in touch even though they are approaching 50 years old now!

Teahing is a wonderful experience. Helps you learn a lot about yourself, and a lot about others. Nothing easy about it though. I can honestly say that bar none it was the most intense line of work I was ever in!

I still work with kids when I get a chance. They make ME smarter every time I do.

As a newpaper printer for more than 90 different publications here in Phoenix, I know there are jobs in print journalism too. Not always exciting, but I have watched a lot of good writers move into careers beyond newspapering. Check out "Fatal Treasure" by Jedwin Smith. His book is getting great reviews.

So journalism and teaching both have opportunity...just follow your dreams.

[streetsoldier]

I found that I, too, loved teaching...but the politics, "babysitting" and stress got to me.

Frankly, I'd have been happier if I'd stayed in the MPD...less stressful, greater job satisfaction, and...you'd have a gun (which, IMHO, should be required of every teacher above 5th Grade).

[Josephine96]

I talked to my pastor this morning and he said he'd get his wife to talk to me sometime soon. Since she is a 5th grade teacher and I'd wanna teach that age group. Either 5th or 6th graders