Critical Need for Quality Teachers

Teaching colleges gradutate a lot of people that have degrees in education, its the ones that decide to stay in the field that end up being the teachers that make a difference. There is a large turn over rate in the first probationary years, probably due to the starting salary being not as high as some other professions. Also, because a lot of new teachers can not deal with all the politics that go on in the American school system. One bad thing is that all the older teachers are at, or near retimrement age, so there will be a huge need in the next 10-15 years.
Another thing that is happening is that some districts are so desparate for teachers, they are hiring people that just obtained thier teachers certificate, but have no education background. These people usually come from another career in business or other path. This could result in the quality of the students education being effected negatively because the new teachers did not go through any sort of teachers program.
For me, the realization of a smaller starting salery does not really effect my decision of wanting to go into this field. I am going into education because I want to be a good role model for children. Also, to set good examples for them so they can see how being a teacher can be a "cool" job to have. Being in this field because you want to be, not because your doing it so you can find a better paying job, will make all the difference in the world.
I think that starting out here at the community college is a great stepping stone in that direction. By being one of a few men that decide to go into elementary education, that in itself will provide children with a diverse and non-stereotypical teaching view.