Is There An Easier Way Of Getting Into Nursing School?

Ok some of you may have already come across some of my previous questions. I’ve come to a point in my life where I would like to change my career. Currently I’m a substitute teacher teaching in elementary schools in the LAUSD. Unfortunately there are a few jobs available, and the districts pay very little or not hiring at all because of the budget cuts. I’m also burning out of teaching, it’s like you’re a babysitter, kids don’t respect you, and most parents are even worse.
I considered going into a trucking career because of the great money and ease of working. But many of my relatives and friends keep telling me not to throw away my talents on some job that doesn’t even require any education, although there are many college educated truck drivers out there.
I”ve even considered going into nursing because I know people who are nurses, they make tons of money, even though the job is as stressful as teaching, but there are always jobs available.
My problem is how can I get into a nursing program in Southern California, in the Los Angeles area, if there are far too many applicants, and on top of that they have a lottery to admit students into programs. They’re in dire need of nurses, but make it next to impossible to become one! Any advice, please no links to job agencies or school websites, I already did the research, I just need some advice from experienced nurses, and/or truckers.