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The economy is down and unemployment numbers are up. I know people are sick of hearing it, but it’s the truth. Although I live in the DC area and fortunate the numbers are not as high as other areas, unemployment went up from the previous year and there is no idea where it is heading. Then, I found one market that really needs people badly: Schools.
This is from an Read this author's blog.

It’s not that easy to do. In California people without the teaching certificate end up in "substitute hell" until they get the certificate (that doesn't include how long it takes to get into the union). There is a SURPLUS of K-12 teachers and the shortage is not real (at least in California). As for staff positions in K-12, the districts receive THOUSANDS of applicants for every open position (even before the recession).
I have a few friends that are already teachers in the system and a while back they helped me get into the "substitute pool", I never got called due to the large number of people with actual teaching experience who were also in the "pool" but not in full-time positions.
Maybe getting a part-time gig teaching a Junior College class is more realistic for folks with a gradutate degree (I have been able to get this kind of work from time to time, but the pool of qualified applicants is still enormous).

This is a great story. Knowing how George runs his team, giving the reigns to a family member doesnt surprise me, but his background and how he came got into the front office of baseballs most coveted team and made a positive impact that continues to linger is amazing. Great post!

I think it's great to point out lesser-known aspects of teaching, such as leadership. However, I would caution against encouraging people to see teaching as a job they turn to because they couldn't find some other job.
That may give some the chance to explore a career they hadn't considered, and a few may discover that they want to continue as teachers. But teaching is hard work, and you won't get rich doing it. Also, you're directly responsible for what students learn. That may sound exciting--"molding young minds"--but it really matters when you get it wrong.
It's a great career, but it's a great career for those who take it seriously.
Also, boohoo is right. It's important to see what the requirements are, and what your local market is like. California doesn't just lack a shortage. It lacks a sustainable budget, and teachers are also getting laid off.
@boohoo - I don't know much of the California teacher market, but I'll take your word. I know in the DC area, it's terrible and you made a key point about unions and that's where the problems lie. In DC, Michelle wants young teachers and coming from the Teach for America background, she's showing a new wave of teachers. Let me just add that the teachers' unions are not happy about her, but she's getting things done and I hope there's a Michelle Rhee in each state. Of course, she's a workaholic and needs to chill.
@Michael - Before last year, I detested the Yankees because of their big budget and actually we're in my list of not to date women who are NY Yankees fans. After reading the Molloy story, I have some respect for that dynasty team.
@KateNonymous - I have the same feeling for nonprofits, which I specialize in. It does take commitment and the pay stinks, but the reward could be great if done right. Personal accomplishment is great (money, recognition, awards), but having a student come back and say hi and chat, right there, you set the standard.
Why not try teaching overseas?
I don't mean teaching english in Japan or Korea kind, although those are great fun too.
I meant really teach Geography or Mathematics or Art, etc with solid qualifications and not just having a bachelor degree in anything and Teaching English As Second Language certificate.
For example, Australia has a shortage of teachers and they're not doing too badly in the economy.
There is a really big problem with teachers shortage here that teachers are actually being paid stellar salaries to go regionals.
It would be recession proof too.
I'm not sure how bad UK is but last time I talked to my teacher graduate friend, she told me UK has shortage too.