Of course it all depends on the job market where you live, but from personal experience when a company is downsizing, if you don't take the buy-out then a few monthes down the road they'll just fire you and give you nothing. I would take the money and run 1 yrs salary up front should give you the security to make sure your family is okay for a while, you can even invest a portion of it to bring back interest while you seek new employment. As far as finding what you want, can you go to school in your area?
Good Luck man,