Debating about leaving teaching for a nursing career

[SFrizzel]

Hi everyone! My name is Sarah. For the last four years I have been teaching science in the public schools in California. I choose to go to "teacher school" over nursing school five years ago, and now I'm thinking about starting a accerated BSN next year. I really enjoy most parts of teaching, especially the kids, BUT I'm tired of the politics. I have been laid off three times in four years (one year I moved out of the area), and I have no doubt that I will be laid off again next year. Every year I am assigned to a new school to teach a new subject. Last year I was sexually harassed by a male student, which resulted in no punishment because my admin said "those things happen to young teachers". As it is now I do not touch students, even if they are crying, and I do not allow a child boy or girl in the room alone with me because I am so concerned about an unfounded allegation. Science teachers are expected to conduct experiments and dissections with 38 students in a room, while being aware of all student allergies and medical conditions.

I need some advice about whether I should leave my current career for nursing. I'm not considering leaving teacher for better pay or hours, I'm considering leaving so I won't be laid off every year, and won't have to cover my butt with the students. I'm only 27, I can't imagine getting laid off every year for the next ten years based solely on senority.

The things I love about the idea of nursing is the fast pace environment, constant interaction, hard work and lack of boredom. I'm already used to having between 175-220 daily contacts. I'm also used to working with difficult populations. As it is now I get no breaks (except lunch) even for potty breaks (we are not allowed, legally to leave the students alone). I run from the minute I enter my classroom until I leave. I really enjoy the hard work, it's what keeps me coming back day after day.

Thank you in advance for any advice :)

Sarah

[ruralgirl08]

Its really a personal decision, it may be good to post this on the California nursing forum, to get an idea what the job market is like in that state. (Unless you are open to relocating.) I would think teaching would have better hours then nursing, since a lot of nurses (especially new to the field) work nights, weekends, holidays, ect. There are also a lot of politics in nursing as well, so that is not something you would be leaving behind. But there also seems to be a lot of similarities to teaching/nursing. If you did pursue the accelerated BSN, you would have a lot more options. You could possibly work both fields, and see which you like more. They really enhance each other: you could eventually become a clincial educator (with some nursing experience under your belt.) You would an excellent candidate for: diabetes educator, public health, school nurse, and many more teaching like positions:) It really is up to you. But with the nursing job market, not as good as it used to be, you may be waiting awhile (as well) to get your ideal position. Good luck with your decision!