I work in schools and would recommend looking at switching to SpEd, if you’re at all interested. There is a major need for them in almost every school district and they will often pay for your certification via the provisional licensure process. I recommend this due to the demand and, from what I have seen, higher starting salary levels. SpEd comes with its own challenges, but it seems like a good route to consider, at least temporarily. Many of the special educators I see have what appears like an easy go of it, though I am sure the behind the scenes shit is exhausting. It’s tempting enough for me to consider leaving the ABA track I am currently on.

As for living, get used to a commute, as the cheaper “nice” stuff will be found in more rural or less desirable areas. Still, lots of need in central vermont which is not a bad place to live at all.

I make average teacher pay and do not feel as if I have to sacrifice much other than a commute, as I still have enough to buy the toys I want and do the things I would like to do. I am married tho, so that changes things a bit.