Want to return to work after 16yrs. Former teacher.

[Tash1217]

I stopped working about 16 years ago due to MS. Since then I have had my son which was the single most priceless gift! He's now 12.

I have been down every horrible road that every MS veteran has gone down! DX's at 21, now 42 and have SPMS which has left me unable to walk. My fine motor skills were also affected therefore my handwriting is similar to a serial killers handwriting! I use to tell my students that when their work was written messy!

My license is for K-8 however I am best when teaching 2nd-3rd grade. Problem is being in a wheelchair and having poor fine motor skills prevents me from teaching. So now what?

I'm searching for advice on changing careers. What career is an option for me and possible considering my limitations? It needs to be a career that interests me as well. Any ideas?

[pennstater]

Not sure how you feel about computers/software, but some companies use trainers for system rollouts. But that would involve travel most likely.

Maybe you could work with an occupational therapist to help look at careers?

[jreagan70]

Hi Tash:

Every state has a Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (the names might vary slightly from state to state). The rehab specialists in your state will evaluate your interests, desires, skills, and abilities and help you determine what kinds of jobs you can do or be trained to do. If it gets that far, your state employment agency will help you look for a job after you're trained.

Regarding teaching, the classroom has changed a lot in 16 years. Many states have online schools for students who are home-schooled. If you still have the cognitive abilities and don't have to be active in a classroom, your physical condition may not be a deterrent to you teaching online classes. That's certainly something your state Department of Vocational Rehab can evaluate you for. Good luck with whatever you decide to do.