i think i got misunderstood here yesterday
credential = teacher's license // i think the name varies by state but it's the same concept
and i know of some school districts that will PAY YOU to get your licensure, i.e., pays for your educational expenses to get "credentialed."
so there would be no financial concern in that, because your employer covers your school.
here's what i'm talking about
http://teachnm.org/new-teachers/lice...rtunities.html
i know for a fact that some school districts will pay you to attend those programs listed there. credits are transferable from other isntitutions of course.
anyway, not saying "go to new mexico", ha ha ha ha, but... it's a supply & demand game. in some places there's so much demand for teachers they will do anything they can to hire one.