AboutBonnie Shimmin Expertise I can answer questions about teaching and learning in grades K-8, having taught all those grades. As a former principal I can discuss techniques and responsibilities in administration of public schools. I am especially familiar with California laws and educational history.
I have no personal knowledge or experience with home schooling or private schools.
Experience Public School Teacher in grades K-8: All grade levels - specializing in English and Social Sciences.
Specialist in Gifted and Talented Education.
Specialist in Categorical Program Evaluation.
Administrator (Principal or Assistant Principal) in elementary (K-6) and middle schools (6-8).
Organizations Retired Principals Association
UCLA Alumni Association
Publications "What if...?" In-frequently Asked Questions by Principals
"My Brain Makes Learning Fun: Gifted Students Speak Out" Vols 1 and 2
Yearly Categorical Program Evaluation Reports
Education/Credentials B.A. from UCLA in English with a minor in Social Sciences.
M.A. from California Polytechnic University in Education, specializing in Instructional Technology and Media
CA Elementary Credential - Life
CA Secondary Credential - Life (English & Social Sciences)
CA Administrative Credential
Question Hello. I received my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 1989. I did not formally teach with my degree. Now, this many years later and my 3 kids almost all in full day school, I am contemplating going back to school to revamp my degree. Do you have any recommendations on what it would take to get recertified and/or what areas of education I might be able to branch into? Any fields greatly in need of educators? Or perhaps is there another avenue that I could take with my degree other than in Education? Any suggestions or advice would be ever so helpful. Thanks
Answer Dear Marni,
Many people go into teaching after a gap for children or other jobs. As a principal, I always looked warmly upon those people because they brought more things to the table than just youth or a recent education. They had knowledge of the real world and what students may need along with a basic education. So, I think you are making a good choice to go back into this profession, especially with an open mind about what you want to teach.
I would go to a local college to see about what you need for re-certification. You may not need to do too much for elementary teaching since that is what you majored in. In California, it's necessary to take a test and you can find out about at your college. Elementary schools always need teachers, though right now it's kind of tight. Lots of people are keeping their jobs because of the economy. But that won't last forever and by the time you've made up your mind and taken the additional classes you need, it probably won't be so difficult to find work. In secondary schools, math and science teachers find work most easily, but without a major in those areas, you would have to take several courses. Also, special education teachers generally have more options about jobs, if you are interested in this area. If you have some time to look around, you might want to start substitute teaching in many different areas to see what niche you fit into. Over the years I've taught in all grade levels or subjects and found that each one has its charms (and miseries), so don't just assume some grade or subject is not to your liking.
