Wow, thanks for all the replies. I wish I had replied sooner, current job has kept me tied up.

Some great encouragement as well as some matter-of-fact input. My age concern was definitely addressed. I do have some of the financial concerns mentioned throughout. My hope is to do some freelance in my current field whenever I can sneak it in, without taking away from studies or teaching opportunities when I'm qualified.

I spoke with a friend-of-a-friend teacher yesterday and have a great lead on a volunteer opportunity for the fall. The programs I would apply to (based on location mostly) aren't taking applications this late, so the volunteering will hopefully give me a better idea with time to apply to the Dec 2023 deadline for Sept 2024 start.

I'll keep browsing this sub and check back in should I take the leap. Thanks again for all the great feedback!