I need some perspective... (long story)

I am also a teacher who left education 8 years ago. I have been trying for months to get back into as I was laid off at the local hospital last Oct. Even with 14 years experience and great recommendaions I have been unable to land a teaching job. My niece who just graduated from a Masters in Education can't find a job. I'm very close to vowing to never work for anybody again and just do my own thing.

Your wife needs to join the Union as soon as posssible, I sure that legal representation is one of the benefits of the Union. The fact that your wife has 10 years satisfactory experience will be a plus in any dealings.