Expert: Debba Robinson - 10/10/2006

Question
I really really really really want to be a kindergarten teacher. I am in my last semeter of high school and was wondering if you knew what it takes to be a kindergarten teacher. Like waht schools I would have to go to and if it would be required for me to dye my pink hair another color and take out my piercings. I really don't want to but I am willing to because I love love love working with kids.

Answer
Dear Crystal,

It's exciting that you have begun to determine what profession you want to study for.  Alas, I don't know many schools that will let pink hair and piercings get a job - so much of the teaching profession revolves around the examples you are setting for young people and the look you describe is one that would turn off most employers.  The only hope you would have would be to find an alternative school where those things aren't so important.  But, even that might be hard to find.

Regarding where to go to school - I attended Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio, University of Vermont in Burlington, VT and Plymouth State University in Plymouth, NH.  I know that each of these schools has excellent education programs and would prepare you to become a teacher.  I suggest you contact your high school guidance counselor and get suggestions for schools near you, or in a part of the country you have an interest in exploring, and go from there.  

Good luck.

Debba