A hard lesson

Re “The California Fix: In a time of layoffs, the state hopes to inspire a new generation of educators,” Oct. 4

I am glad to see that someone is finally addressing the issue. I think the system has shot itself in the foot by eliminating qualified educators and thus discouraging new ones from entering the profession. Yet I keep reading articles that education is a hot profession in this economy. Where are these jobs?

I have regrets about buying into the plea to become a second-career teacher. The five years I spent in evening and summer classes, and the $20,000 student loan debt I incurred at this stage of my life, ruined my future. I have been unemployed as a fully certified special-education teacher for two years.

In this topsy-turvy world where education and experience are considered bad and inexperience (meaning cheaper) is desired, it is no surprise that fewer dedicated people are seeking education as a career.

Marc Dodell

Tujunga