This is often a frustrating time of year for teachers. Not only do we have the stress of state testing to think about, there seems to be a constant worry about what’s going to happen next year.
With the federal stimulus money somehow filtering its way into our school districts, uncertainty still exists. Several years ago a friend of mine moved from Ohio to Arizona because she simply couldn’t get a job in Ohio. There were too many veteran teachers holding onto their jobs that competition was fierce among new teachers.
Arizona may now face the same challenges. With first- and second-year teachers being denied contracts in some districts simply because the money isn’t available, I fear we may see an abundance of teachers without full time jobs in the fall. And for us veterans out there? While we’re sure to have jobs next year (we hope!), many of us are uncertain about what that job will look like.
Will I have 40 students in my classroom? Will I be forced to move to a different school? Will special area classes become a thing of the past for my students? Who knows what will happen?
In the end, until the “powers that be” tell us what will happen, all we can do is just go with the flow. I can still approach my job with the same enthusiasm as I do every day. Ultimately, my goal is to impact students in a positive way. I’m there to teach and ensure the success of every child that crosses my threshold. Sure, I can’t plan for next year yet because I don’t know what next year will bring. But it’s sure to bring a classroom full of children waiting to be filled with knowledge!
How are things going in your state or district? I wonder how others are faring.
