Feeling like I am being discriminated for my age
Hi all, I am 54 years old with an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. I have been in education for about 18 years. Currently, I am at the end of my Bachelor's degree program with two more classes this Fall. I notice I am getting more interviews since I'm close to getting my degree, however, I do not get hired. I was told in college that my Associate's degree would not be good enough so I went on to a four year college to get the Bachelor's degree. It seems like no matter how hard I try to better myself I seem never get where I want to be. I really need a job right now and with school starting soon, schools are hiring now.I still have to take the MTEL (teacher licensure exam) so I can work as a Reading Teacher. Right now they will only hire me for a Paraprofessional opening. Anyone have any advice for me? I would appreciate any suggestions or comments. Thank you.
Look for jobs oversees. Age discrimination is very real in America. Oversees age is associated with wisdom and is revered.
I know how you feel. I have so much experience in my field but when I apply it's clear that they want a younger face. So I'm trying to get something going on the side because even I got hired, if something took a turn and it didn't work out I'd be that much older and looking for a j-o-b! While you're looking for work, is there a book you could be writing about your field? Also, have you listed on Wyz Ant or other tutoring websites? Another thought-I'm not sure where you live, but have you considered doing nanny work? They get paid a lot more than teachers, and often with benefits. I'll be wishing you the best:)
First, I admire your spirit. Second, the battle is not yours, it's the Lord. Turn it over to God. It's too big for you but just right for God..Pray, ( I will be praying for u too) believe and watch God change things. He said in this word, "If you will delight yourself in God , he will give you the desires of your heart" There It Is. Now, thanks him. He is about to open the windows.of heaven. Get ready......It is Done. Be Blessed!! Say hello to Your students for me. Morris
Hi Mary Ann, Thanks for your post & sorry it's been tough. :( I definitely think you're on the right path by finishing your Bachelor's degree, as lots of teaching jobs require either a Bachelor's or Master's degree (!) as a minimum requirement. A good friend of mine (who has her Master's in Ed) just went through a job search and found it equally challenging.
To give you some context: She's 28 years old & has been working with special-ed students (as a teacher's aide) for 1 1/2 years. She went on 12 interviews in 5-6 months, all of which required that she create a lesson plan for a class & then teach it in front of an observer (whether or not the subject matched the class she was hoping to teach). She got called back to 4 schools for a panel-style interview with the school's management (some schools were in a different state, but she had to go to get the job, of course). She finally received an offer at a private school, but it pays much less than public school (which is pretty typical, from what I understand). She accepted it and will continue to build her skills until she can transfer to a different position that pays more.
So... I'm not saying that you're NOT being discriminated against because of your age, but hopefully just adding perspective on a TOUGH job market, so please take heart... if you continue to network, finish your schooling, apply to jobs, do lots of interviews & keep your head held high, you WILL find something.
I hope this helps! If you have any other thoughts or questions, we'd love to hear them. And - of course - we'd love to hear from you as you make your way through this process. Anything you learn helps other Jobcasers!
Best of luck, Marijoy
Have you tried contacting schools in your area to see if they need any reading teachers?
Do not be afraid to look oversees. In America, age discrimination is real. However, oversees, age is associated with wisdom and still revered. Do a short course in ESOL/TESL. You can write your ticket to the job of yoir dreams but you have to be willing to get out of your comfort zone.