Is it worth it?

I'm thinking of going into elementary education. I have been subbing for about 6 months and I enjoy that aspect of it, does that mean I would enjoy doing the job? I have a dental hygiene degree that has gotten me nowhere and I wish I would have researched the field before getting my degree or would have been given the reality while I was in school. So, I'm just trying to get a feel for this occupation before jumping in. What are the downsides to this occupation? Are there any respect issues between teachers and the principal or administration, as in do they back you up on discipline and other decisions or hang you out to dry? Do parents make the job unbearable? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Downsides to this occupation: NO JOBS. Especially in Indiana. An elementary teaching degree is WORTHLESS. I actually applied for one job here at a preschool and they received....wait for it.....900 applications for a job that pays $9.00 an hour.

you will never be hired as a noob.....

Don't do it! I've been teaching 5 years and I'm currently looking for another career. The downsides are a long list of demanding, stressful responsibilities. I subbed before I became a teacher and subbing is nothing like teaching. As the teacher you are soley responsible for everything that happens to your students whether you can control it or not. Doesn't matter! There are a ton of respect issues between administration and teachers. It's very political. You have to be willing to kiss *ss to keep your job or not be bullied by admin. Depends on the school but in my experience they don't back you up with parent or discipline issues. It all falls on your shoulders. For the money I'd look into other careers. As the previous poster said, it is VERY hard to find a teaching job unless you're willing to relocate to some remote location in the country with terrible schools and struggling students (which makes a hard job even harder). Good luck!