New respect for teachers. I was a teacher for 2.5 years teaching special ed. (emotionally disturbed students, students with behavior problems, and learning disabilities) at the high school level. With special ed, not only are you teaching 4 grade levels at one time, but I was in charge of a caseload of 22-28 much of with were students that I never taught. I had to assess, have IEPS weekly, had to deal with angry gen. ed teachers when I had to pull a student out to assess, and have had parents on multiple times not show up to IEPS.

I enjoyed teaching, but would never go back to doing special ed. It being rewarding wasn't enough to keep me there. I found the teachers that were able to stick with it were the ones who gave up 10 hours of their own time a week to stay in their classroom (or at home) and do more work.Sure it was nice that I got holidays off and a summer vacation, but the anxiety levels I had during the school year made it not worth all the vacation time.

Now I am unemployed and yeah it sucks. It still was better than my old job though and I have been applying for a million jobs but rarely get interviews since all my jobs were in education.

I feel like a screw up since I invested 5 years of college in that. Afterwards I did my MS in School Counseling which I LOVE. Was a school counselor for a year, and while it was a lot of work, it was work I enjoyed doing mainly because I didn't have students with multiple behavior problems all in my class at once.

Definitely love the atmosphere of being at a school, working with young people, working with the community, and parents, but realize I shine when working in an office 1:1 with students, or with a small group.

Sucks that there are hardly any school counseling jobs in CA since the budget cuts, so I have just been applying everywhere for them including in Ancourage and Memphis! Hubbie can go anywhere. He does telecommunications.

Anyway bless you teachers especially special ed. teachers.

I'm sorry that you realized teaching wasn't a fit for you, but you are right - it is a lot of work.  My first few years, I was working 15 hour days.  Now, 11 years in, I work 12 hour days at least 3 days a week and often only get one day off per weekend.  But to me, the benefits outweigh the time lost.  I applaud you that you realized it wasn't for you - there are far too many teachers that just go on "survival mode" when they realize it doesn't fit, which doesn't help either the students or the teacher.  I hope you find either a counseling job or something that makes you fulfilled!

I'm so sorry to hear.  I agree with pinkgerbers.  I too have 11 years in and it is more than a notion to teach.  I do appreciate your comments but I wish that you  could find something that you loved in the field that you majored in.  Texas is HUGE!  The cost of living here is much less than CA.  Have you considered us?  Many good wishes your way!!!  Follow your heart!!

I applaud you for your courage to do what's best for you and ultimately your students.  I must admit that after 4 years of teaching spec. ed. I had to decide if I was going to become a "lifer sped" or if I needed to move on to something else.  I was at a breaking point.  It was only after getting married and having my first child that I was able to put things into perspective.  I love making a difference with my students (and I'm good at it) but they are no longer my life.  I prioritize their needs, say "no" to many committees and after school functions and have become insanely productive while I'm there.  Very rarely do I take work home anymore.  Too many of us become jaded and worn down and end up making mistakes or decisions that harm kids.  I hope that you find a career that fulfills your needs and you can continue making a difference in children's lives.   

You chose wisely- despite being unemployed.  I am with the other ladies, in that it better to walk away from this job than stay in it and be unhappy- you have a lot of courage and I know you will find what you are looing for in your job search.  I am an 11th year girl too and yes I still stay late 3 days a week but I learned like TheBlueBride to reprioritize- had I not I never would have found FI- b/c I was spending 15 hrs a day!  It is hard and thanks for recognizing what hard work it is! Best of luck and I hope you do find that conselor job!  You have so much to offer and you will really make a difference! Hugs!

wondered if you found a counseling job yet?