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
No comments:
Post a Comment