Some Advice for New Teachers

I just received my first full time teaching job. Here is my advice to people out there who are still looking for a job.

I landed my first teaching job by applying everywhere! I went through the newspaper every week and applied to every job posted that I qualified for. Even though I'd prefer to be close to home, I did not limit myself. My job is an hour and a half from home.

I landed my first teaching job because I possess these qualities... I am energetic and anxious to start. I think I gave the impression that I would electrify the classroom with my enthusiasm. I also have more than one certification. That made me more marketable. I am qualified to teach elementary school, special education, and mathematics. Although I thought I'd prefer elementary school, I landed a job in a special education high school teaching mathematics. I really love it!!!!!!!!

Finding a teaching job can be hard, but here is some advice to make it easier..NUMBER 1 - don't restrict limit yourself like I almost did. Be willing to teach anywhere, anything! NUMBER 2 - get as many certifications as you can, to make yourself more marketable. NUMBER 3 - always exhibit energy and enthusiasm!!!!!!!

This post is part of the Teaching Jobs Portal: “How to land a Teacher Job”. What was your journey like to become a teacher? If you’d like to share your experience with other aspiring teachers please see this post for more information

Manchester's Referendum Passes

Education is not a priority for taxpayers. That is sad, but true. History tells us that most school budgets do not pass, simply because it is the only time that voters can say no. And in our town, they say it loud and clear. This past year, our School Board went out to the voters three times to get them to approve a referendum that would enable them to make necessary improvements to our school. Our athletic fields are a mess, with major cracks in the tennis courts, and grassless soccer and softball fields. Our elementary school has a roof that is 50 years old and there have been so many leaks that have caused major water damage to the interior. The playground equipment is outdated and not sufficient for the rapidly increasing enrollment. Technology has not been updated in years. These were just some of the issues that could be rectified with the referendum. Yet the voters defeated it, not once, but twice, even after numerous cuts. But hope came, in September of 2009, when the voters finally saw fit to pass the budget. Thanks to the undying efforts of the superintendent and all the teaching staff, they made their case. The students of Manchester will greatly benefit from the generosity of the citizens of Manchester! Yes, there is hope for the future!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This post is part of the MAT@USC: Masters in Teaching Hope for the holidays event. Did you have an experience or witness something in 2009 which gave you hope for the future of American education? If so, please see this post for more information on how to share it.