Making a List Led to Teaching

Throughout my military career I always performed well in training and operations. When it came time to retire, I sat down and listed all the things that I enjoyed about the Army. I then listed the various jobs and their qualities that I may be interested in.

From the list I soon saw that what I enjoyed and elementary education coincided. I never was a principal or big-time operator, I was simply an elementary educator, and I was an excellent teacher and I thoroughly enjoyed my 20 years in the classroom.

Young kids desperately need male role models and I strongly encourage men to become elementary school teachers. It's a very satisfying profession even though the paperwork is a killer.

(Submitted by Jim Brosman)

Comments

[Helen]

It is commendable that you would take up teaching young children. Like you said, they are in deparate need of male role models, something society seems to be overlooking with the high profile people in Hollywood and across the land claiming they can raise children along, no need for a father in the home.
As a family of 4 girls and 1 boy, I find the father's role is what influences the daugher's identity of self. She looks to her father as a role model for her boyfiends and future husband. I was much older before I realized how very much my father had influenced me. I EXPECTED my dates and husband, even my 2 sons to treat me with the repect and dignity as my father had.
Surprise! surprise! yu expect respect and nine times out of ten, you will get it. The one-tenth who refused to give it aren't worth worry about.
I commend you on your choice of career.
Helen

[Judy]

Wonderful! I too am looking forward to transitioning from the Army into a teaching profession. However, after twenty-two years I am having some difficulty putting a resume together that sells as an Elementary School teacher. I have an AG background and did the Drill Sergeant and Instructor thing. I am applying for a Teach Fellowship as an alternate means of becoming a certified teacher. Please advise.

[Gordon Hodges]

I am approximately 1.5 years away from retiring and I have completed my MAE in educational leadership and administration. I have always said, "I will become a principle when I retire". But, I'm truly strugling with that statement today. I've been speaking to principles and teachers and while I truly enjoy training and mentoring young people the pay his making me sway in my decisions. I am looking for some advice and I'll definately be praying for wisdom and guidance in my decision making.