> I've been thinking about taking an ESL course and wading into the
> field. But I'm 56 and most employers seem to want teachers under 40.
> How big a problem is this? Should an older person even bother getting
> certified?

Dear Ben,

The age problem DOES exist practically everywhere on this God's Green Earth, but not as acutely in some places as in others. However, I don't think the bias is necessarily generated on the basis of one's age alone. The way it was put to me by one honest employer last year (upon turning me down cold),
"It's often a question of THE SCHOOL'S INSURANCE LIMITATIONS and whether they are sufficiently covered should something happen to an oldster on the staff while on the school premises." He went on to explain that HE was put to the test a few years prior when a 65-year-old teacher fell down a flight of steps on her way to class one morning. She sustained a compound fracture and several sprains, all of which put her out of business for close to 9 months. Naturally, her husband sued the school, and after a nasty bout between lawyers, the victim was given an award of $1.7 million, later reduced to $1 million even! He went on to apologize for not even considering me due to his being gun-shy. I was 66 at the time. Now I'm pushing 68, but still very much at it. Lately I've had to be content with a fairly regular substitute-teaching position (average 3 nights per week) along with my Social Security, a few musical gigs, and some writing sales. But I'm almost 68 and you're a young 56! You want to get certified? Will apologies to Rocky Balboa, "GO FER-UT!" Even if you can't locate anything too exciting Stateside, there's always the ASIAN marketplace where, in many places, your advanced years will actually act as a plus. China is the most promising locale for such a circumstance -- ALBEIT, YOU MUST VERY CAREFULLY INVESTIGATE BEFORE MAKING ANY COMMITMENTS! In any event, if you REALLY want to pursue ESL instruction as your new area of concentration, I am certain, with the assistance of many new contacts, you will find your way to the most desirous and productive opportunity possible.

Good luck in the New Year, Buddy!

The Arrogant One