I am a sophomore in highschool. The second semester is approaching, and ive been becoming very depressed with my schools schedule. I live in a small town in wv, and it seems that if it doesnt have to do with football its not important. My classes are simple so i decided its not right for me.

I decided that next semester and my junior year I am going to enroll in an online homeschool. Hopefully then ill be able to graduate early and enter college sooner!

To pay for tuition i decided that i would teach piano lessons to beginners and intermediates on weekdays, and maybe even Violin/Cello/Voice Lessons. I have no formal background with teaching though. Is this a smart idea?

Hi AusRotten -

I do not think this is a good idea. Have you spoken with your guidance counseler at your school? What about your parents? It's important that you talk out the issues you're having before you make any rash decisions. Maybe there are more advanced classes you can take, or is there a music program at your school that you might play a bigger role in?

I'd go have a friendly meeting with your parents and your guidance counselor as a first step if I were you.

Good luck
Paul

Paul gives good advice.

Teaching children is an incredibly rewarding yet awesome responsibility. This is not something to take lightly, to just make money.

If this is something that you really want to do, because you love children and music, then begin by assisting your current teacher and observing many others. There are so many things to consider when teaching: Proper methods, hand position, technic, theory, eartraining, sight-reading, what is age-appropriate, plus a miriad of other things.

Please, do not begin teaching. You are not ready and could cause more damage than good.

cranky

Yes, I agree with what Cranky Woman just said.. I didn't even think to "go there" with my response (about how big a responibility it is to teach children) - I was only considering your success in life.. Good points Cranky Woman!
-Paul

Thanks Paul,

I hesitated in commenting - not wanting to come across as too harsh. I've had enough transfer students with irrepairable damage from teachers who just were in it for the money, that I couldn't keep quiet.

if you can offer something to the members of your town you should.

That's very true, but in light of the situation as he presented it, I'm not sure he can responsibly offer something. Lets see, a sophmore in high school who is possibly showing signs of depression who is considering leaving high school to finish online at home (in seclusion)

If I were a parent, would I entrust my kids with him musically or otherwise? I don't think so. I'm sure he's a very nice kid, but I believe he needs some help of his own before he can offer anything to others.

Again, that conclusion based only on a small post, it could be way off base.

-Paul