Becephalus:

It looks like we are in agreement more or less. :)

As for the science issue that is exactly my point. I am positive I know more math/physics/chemistry than any of the teacher I ever had (I have had a subscribtion to Scientific American and Nature for over 20 years, just as the most frivolous of examples), but I would need to go get three years of "certification classes" to be able to teach in my state. Meanwhile I could just go teach logic and philosophy of science at the local community college (small town)...or continue on at my meaningless economic development job that actually pays well and has a flexible schedule.

Another thing people undervalue about teaching is that while you get time off, when you do work you are working striahgt and sitting in a room for hours on end. Most professional jobs I have had people take all kinds of time to dick around and perform non-work related tasks, that simly is not possible in a classroom.

Move to Texas. You still have to take the classes for certification, but you can teach while you take them under the Alternative Certification Program.