Ask this teacher:

• Why did you decide to become a credentialed teacher?
• What were your hesitations in becoming a teacher?
• What hardships or obstacles did you encounter?
• How did you manage your time?

  At the very beginning it [time management] was very hard. Having a family, working, having to drive the distance down to the college that I was attending, doing the homework -- it was a little overwhelming at the beginning, but once I got into the routine it wasn't bad. You just kind of sank in and made your priorities and just went forward.

• What support did you receive from your family and friends? From your school district?
• Did your school district have a career ladder? If so, could you explain how it worked for you?
• What advice would you give to other paraeducators who are thinking of obtaining their credential?