Monday, May 21, 2012

Busy Times, Stressful Times...

As of this evening, I have completed over 266 hours of coursework for the teacher preparation program that I'm enrolled in.  The next thing that I have to do is get a job. :)  Presently, I've applied for over twenty jobs in my district alone--most all of them are in special education.  I've applied in another district, as well, but haven't heard anything on those applications. 

In May, 2010, when I was applying to the teacher prep. program, I had no idea just how difficult all of this would be.  I figured that with my past experience with children with special needs and with my education, I'd be a shoe-in for a teaching job in special ed.  Little did I know...

Initially, I consoled myself with the idea that it is a good thing that education is a difficult career to get into:  I want those who are educating my own children and the children of the great state of Texas to be well-educated, well-prepared, and highly professional.  I liked the idea of joining the ranks of such highly-esteemed educators.  While I still agree that educators of children should be professional, prepared, and educated, I must admit that I've been disappointed to find that not everyone I've encountered in the field of education fill that bill.  Most do, but not all.  I still retain the hope that though the education system has taken a beating, it's still a great place to be.  I also retain the hope that things can and should improve.  I believe in the deepest part of my heart that parents and citizens want to have a well-educated populace.  I also believe that every part of that populace deserves a good education. 

I have seen miraculous things this year.  I'm pleased to say that I've been part of some miraculous things.  I've seen academic and behavioral improvements in the students I work with.  I'm happy to say that I've learned a LOT.  I've met some really fabulous people and have made some great friends.  I'm looking forward to finding a permanent position, and developing new relationships.  For the past two years, I have been in a sort of limbo with regard to professional stability.  While I was a substitute teacher, I met people casually and got to develop friendships in a limited way.  I was an interloper on campuses, and longed for permanence.  This year, I had a measure of permanence that enabled me to develop some relationships, but I always had in the back of my mind the reality that I would be moving on to a lead teacher position--God willing.  I am weary of being a tumbleweed.  I am ready to be a part of a team.  My hope is that some principal out there will be willing to take a chance on me and give me the opportunity to do just that.

I am praying for wisdom, guidance, and for patience.  I am praying as I submit my applications, that the administrator or human resource person reading them will see beyond my limited words on a page and desire to speak with me in person.  Looking for work is so hard, and putting myself out there to face acceptance and/or rejection is a daily struggle.  I know that it will be worth it, if only because it will help my family in the long run to earn a better salary.  It will certainly take some of the pressure off of Brian, not that he complains. :)  Hopefully, my wait will be short, and I will know something soon. 

Many blessings,

Jennifer