At 62, Atlanta man returns to college tuition-free thanks to state program

ATLANTA, Ga. (CBS46) – An Atlanta man goes again to school on the ripe age of 62, and a state program is giving him the golden probability.

When Jeff Criswell turns 64 in two years, he received’t be eyeing retirement. As an alternative, hopes to be beginning a brand new profession as a highschool English instructor.

“Most individuals my age are interested by how a lot golf they’ll play or transferring to Florida to retire, God bless them,” mentioned Criswell. “I’m considering of The Beatles tune, ‘Once I’m Sixty-4.’”

Criswell has had some success within the years he’s been alive, promoting a baseball model to a significant retail retailer within the ‘90s and incomes his grasp’s diploma in 2001 on the age of 40. A long time later, the now-rideshare driver calls himself a “annoyed author.” He mentioned he desires to do one thing extra significant. So, he’s going again to high school.

Criswell was not too long ago accepted into the educating program at Kennesaw State College.

“At this level, folks my age have a lot to provide,” he mentioned. “There’s a lot life expertise.”

In Georgia, residents 62 and older can enroll in courses, tuition-free, at any of the 31 faculties and universities within the College System of Georgia. Books and different charges aren’t included.

“That is the primary time I’ve really heard of somebody utilizing this system to turn into a instructor,” mentioned Lisa Morgan, president of the Georgia Affiliation of Educators.

Morgan mentioned she admires anybody who enters the educating career. Georgia has been dealing with a instructor scarcity since earlier than the pandemic, however the well being disaster exacerbated the loss, in accordance with Morgan. A current nationwide survey confirmed 55% of educators are considering of leaving the career early.

“We’ve acquired to make the modifications in our career and our faculties that make schooling a lovely career,” Morgan mentioned.

For Criswell, who by no means thought of educating till now, he hopes the journey is impactful.

“I feel there’s plenty of vitality in a college,” he mentioned. “Hopefully, I’ll be anyone who will be relatable.”

If you’re a Georgia resident 62 and older and wish to be taught extra concerning the necessities to take programs at faculties within the state system, click on right here.

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