Big hug to everyone else in my situation! I got up this morning, and the sadness of not having a teaching job hit me again. Hard. It's really hard to be optimistic. I'm hoping and praying openings happen after next week. I'm also sick and tired of hearing that the district I want so badly to teach in is "elite" and it's all about who you know. I have known 7 principals since I was a kid, the hiring director since I was 8...I still don't have a job and would really like to know why!
I think subbing is the key in the door. I was a permanent sub last year all over the district. I've been asked to come back this year and since I don't have an actual teaching position I accepted the offer. I'm already doing a maternity leave until November, just got called last night to cover another maternity immediately after, and was called this morning to cover another position. I'm glad to have these opportunities. Although I'm VERY aware that it doesn't mean I will be hired in a position that may open up next year, I've received excellent references and made connections to help in the process. I'm not always happy subbing and the pay certainly isn't worth it, but it's a job and valuable experience. Everyone has their different opinions and I certainly respect that. You have to do what is going to make you happy. Good Luck!!
I totally agree. I'm just hoping to find something to get me out of my rut! I just feel like I failed somewhere, and I'm extremely embarrassed not to have a teaching job when many of the people I went to my university with do. I think I'm feeling low mainly because of the embarrassment I feel. I know it's lame, but I can't help feeling that way. I guess it's a good thing 3 principals are excited that I'm subbing and want me at their schools? I'm just hoping something gives and if anything, I have a permanent teaching job next year. I know I can teach, and I WILL teach. But everyone trying to give me hope on here, I really do appreciate it. I'm glad I found A to Z. :thanks:
I actually liked subbing! I got to meet a lot of people in the district. Unfortuately, I moved and now there are different people in the district where I subbed so I doubt anyone would know me there (my mother works in the district but I don't know if that would be any help since sometimes she's a pain LOL). There just never seems to be any openings there anyway. I would definitely sub again but I wouldn't make enough and there are no benefits. On a good note, I contacted someone at the closest state university and asked if anyone could help me find out what other classes I need to take to obtain additional certification(s). My husband has agreed to help pay for classes!! I am getting excited and nervous but hopefully additional certifications will help me get a new and BETTER job!
OK...this thread has been dead. DID YOU ALL OVERDOSE ON RUM AND TUMS??? I hope not! Nobody invited me to any rum parties!! Well, I bit the bullet and applied AGAIN to this cockamamy district that interviewed me for the WRONG position in July. The good thing is that there are STILL positions open at the MIDDLE SCHOOL. Last time the High School called me. Wish me luck!! I hope they READ my resume correctly this time!
Thank you!! I figure I have a chance since there's only 2 weeks until school starts and the position is STILL open! This is like my 94th choice of a school to work at! Oh well LOL
Yeah, that's true. I wonder how much a Kevlar is? Hope it won't make me go over my back to school wardrobe budget
I just joined today because I had been in a real rut about my job hunt. I was employed in an urban school in Milwaukee for 3 years and had to leave because I moved to live with my new husband. I will qualify for an L.D. license in December. Now I'm in a different part of WI, and NO ONE is even calling me for interviews. I've applied to teaching jobs, sub jobs, and even aide/assistant jobs, but not even a phone interview. I have only had 1 interview during the entire time of my job hunt, and I'm pretty sure it was one of those "we have to interview someone to make this legal, even though we already have someone set for the position" interviews. After having a terrible LTS/shared Aide situation last year, I've been questioning whether or not I even WANT to be a teacher. I got my certification through a Masters/post-grad program, and I'm kicking myself for wasting all of this money to end up being unable to get a teaching job. Maybe the lack of interviews is fate's way of telling me I don't belong in teaching. *Sigh* I've started applying for non-teaching positions because I've pretty much lost hope of getting a job this year. I am thankful that I found this forum, because I was really feeling alone - like I was the only person in the U.S. who couldn't get a teaching job.
I went to drop of my paperwork to substitute teach today. I figured that I needed to get it in because it was the first day of school here. So I walk in and find out that I have to wait almost an hour. I sign in and sit down. This is when I actually looked around the room! I saw no less than 10 people in flip flops, jeans and tank tops! There were at least two men in jean shorts. I thought that was bad until I glanced to my left and saw a lady standing right next to my chair in line pulling her shirt down to COVER HER BUTT CRACK! hmy: Are you even kidding me? Then I get told that the "orientation is at the end of September". Ok this I can deal with. But then I get told "oh you went through alternative certification? Then you can't work till after the training in NOVEMBER!" The woman with her butt crack out can walk right in the classroom and I have to wait? What good was this program if I can't even sub with it? I am so irritated I think I want to scream! I need a job now! Not two months from now! So I am now planning to go but also officially looking in the business field.
Hi and welcome from another "Mrs. A" I think it's more a matter of fate telling you that the economy still hasn't recovered and that there simply aren't enough jobs. Your time will come. Honest. In the meantime, since you're new to town, how about throwing on a skirt and some sandals and hand-delivering some of those resumes? Become "that nice teacher who stopped by" instead of "resume #300."
Yesterday at my job at the grocery store, the assistant store manager came up to me and asked me what my plans were for next year and then proceeded to tell me how there are quite a few other employees in the store in my shoes (looking for a teaching job) and how he read an article saying how hard it is to find a teaching job, because people aren't retiring. In a way that's good that people around where I live understand how hard it is to find a teaching job, but at the same time it's not something that I needed to hear right then. All of this was incredibly well meaning and I appreciated that he even said that if things come up they'll work around my schedule and that I am more than welcome to stay and work there, but at the same time being reminded how hard it is to find a teaching job still hurt.
But Jessica, that means it's NOT ABOUT YOU! If the job isn't open, you're not going to get hired, regardless of how great you would be. Take the job offer as an act of kindness by someone who meant to help.
I can relate. It's nice that others are acknowledging the struggle of finding a teaching job nowadays and that there isn't a teacher shortage, but it's not exactly like we want to be reminded that.
Alice, I already I have a job there and I really did appreciate him taking the time to see how I was doing and telling me that I can definitely continue working there (when I came back in the winter it was supposed to be temporary) and that they would work around my schedule and I thanked him afterwards because it was appreciated and he has done a lot for me (in helping me my job back with a new produce manager after I moved back home). It's just so hard to hear about how hard it is to find a job.
(Bellys up to the bar.) A tall one, thanks! *Random thoughts while downing my rum....* So, i'm driving around today... and on the radio there is this analyst talking. who he was, i don't know... But he says... the PRE-RECESSION level of job openings is expected to occur around... 2014. I do the math...and I will NOT be hired at that age - and may only be accepted as a volunteer for a nice old lady to re-order the shelves in some library. *** One of my interviews...hmmmm, when was it? Asked me what I would consider or do I like professional development. I alluded to - take a LOOK at my life! I go back for 3 years to get a subsequent certificate, I travel and attend national conferences and workshops (paying for each on my own). And I still would like to earn my masters (once I get hired to a position)...and then work towards National Board Certification. I made a comment that yes, i know I am starting later..but ... (and with that I am cut off by the principal and asst principal alluding to the AP's climb to her position (I think she was a bit older than I)... but even so then... how about a hand to someone coming up the same as you? (Got rejected from that position) ****** There is a Catholic School teacher who also works part time at the grocery store. Last year she mentioned that I should sub next year for her school. Yesterday she tells me that is was announced... when someone is sick or absent...there will BE no subs anymore. If one 6th grade teacher is out the other teacher will take in BOTH classes, and the support staff will assist. ALSO, the recess/lunch staff is gone - and the teachers will make up a schedule to cover those times. MM MMMMM...love working missionary work at the Catholic schools (we used to refer to our jobs as the peace corp.. The hardest working job you'll love-but won't get nearly enough for. ***** Someone recently mentioned that my student teaching district is a wonderful place - I agree. I was SO happy and proud to ST there. BUT.... (not knowing MY situation) ... that to get on the hiring pool list is next to impossible! And that though they have magnificent STs, that few even qualify to get onto the list. The good news...I'm on the list and got there with flying colors. The bad news... I seem to be stuck in the pool...and I'm getting pruney already. *Swallow...ahhhh... ok. Enough Rum for me!)
I just found out that I didn't get the half-year reading position either (I figured that I didn't get this position, so it wasn't mush of a surprise), but I'm impressed that all three of the interviews they actually called to let me know that I didn't get them. It's disappointing, but I'm trying to be hopeful that something else will work out for me and I'll get some more interview soon.
Jessica...sorry to here that you didn't get the job. Impressive that you WERE called. (<- wow isn't it something that we are now judging rejections on how nice they were when giving them? Sign of the Times!) Take a breather...and then back to figuring out the next step! Be strong...you can have a life!
Make mine a double! I've been trying for four years now! I had several long term positions and one full time for one year (Catholic school that closed). Last year I subbed all year and thought my feet were pretty well stuck in some doors! I had one interview all summer (at one of the schools I subbed for) and they chose someone with more experience. I'm set up to sub again this year but like many of you mentioned - can barely get by on the pay. I get all these great letters of recommendation and am a highly requested sub. Is that all there is? I too am trying to remain optomistic but I've gotten the fewest responses ever this year. Plus I'm over 40 - does that factor in? Sorry for the whining. I've been making follow-up calls all morning. This site definately keeps me sane!
I''m worried that I won't even get on a sub list this year. I've applied to a ridiculous number of sub jobs, and no one has called me back. Have they just not started working on their sub lists, or am I really as screwed as I think I might be?
I think most districts hire subs in waves now because they have so many more applicants than in the past. In my area, I know some districts start hiring late September into October for subs.
me too sharona Sharona, this is my 4th year too. Like you, this is also the summer that i have had the fewest interviews/job posting-actually not 1 interview at all this year, kinda depressing since the other years i always got at least 1 interview. Trying to keep the faith that something magical will appear at some point becasue i don't know what to do.
A district an hour away from me posted an opening for a kindergarten teacher late this afternoon. :up: I sent in my app asap and will fax other required documents tomorrow morning. I don't know what it is, but since the district is somewhat rural, I'd like to believe I have a shot atleast at an interview.
Good luck Emma! I hope they call you for an interview!! I'm sorry you didn't get the job Jessica. I guess I'm lucky because in my area I know that I could definitely sub if I needed/wanted to. I can't believe so many of you are having trouble getting on sub lists - that stinks!!
I just found another posting for that particular job opening and it states bilingual. Argh! I wish that school districts, when posting job openings on several websites, would keep all the info straight. Maybe that's a minor detail they'll overlook? Ha ha! Anyhow, I checked another district (an hour way again, but in the other direction) and they just posted two openings for pre-kindergarten teachers. I just spent the last two hours do applications, cover letters, and e-mails to the principals.
Okay, so I actually had an interview yesterday for a part-time paraprofessional job. When the school called me, they wanted me to come at 4pm. Since it was the first day of school for my own children, I inquired to see if I could get in earlier ( since my kids get off the bus at 4). I was told no, but I could come later. So I scheduled it for 4:30. I arrived at about 4:20 and the door was locked. The secretary came up to the door and told me that they were closed. I told her I had an appointment with Assistant P for 4:30. Secretary says she knows nothing about that. Anyhow, after checking it out, secretary lets me in and says that I do, indeed, have an appointment. When I do get in to meet the Assistant P, she has her purse over her shoulder and is anxiously glancing at the clock. We sit down and she tells me about the p/t position for 19 hours which pays about $9.85/hour. I tell her about my background (I did my ST in the district and have subbed there). She then blurts out, "Oh my God -you are certified??" I tell her yes. She then says to me.."Why do you want this job? I mean, I have had quite a few certified teachers apply for this and cannot understand why anyone would want it. Why aren't you teaching?" I tell her that I need something steadier than subbing, and need something since there not many teaching jobs. (Actually, I feel like telling her that I have spent thousands of dollars getting my degrees and sacrificing to simply make less than $200/week and it has never dawned on me to actually try to get a teaching job! :lol Anyhow, she then proceeds to tell me all about the other certified teachers who have applied and how so many are over-qualified, blah, blah, blah... :yawn: She tells me she will let me know by Friday (where have I heard that one before! ). I am just sooooooo tired of this....:| Good luck to anyone else who is still searching...
How professional of the AP to conduct the interview in such a way. Ugh. So, what was she hoping for? That you would be less qualified? And shouldn't the fact that so many certified teachers apply for the para position tell her something? She's in education, she should be aware of what's currently going on! Sheesh!
First off... I have to say... wow! to have to SEARCH for this thread and find it on the 3rd page. I guess people are thinking optimistically. And that's good. *** As for me though... I have crossed into a really sad phase. Not that I am not trying, I still am looking/still filling out applications- though haven't gotten an interview for weeks. But as I DO fill them out..or think of interviewing... I am too resolved that I will not teach. And i find that I (in other ways) have gone dormant on things in my life. I have only quasi-dated one guy (we realize we were better as friends) since my divorce 5 years ago. And I have become resolved that i just won't have someone in my life. Therefore - well..... it's like...if YOU decide it's not going to happen, maybe it hurts less. And I fear that is what I'm doing to my teaching career. saying *I"M* not going to get a teaching job...so therefore no rejection can penetrate this force-field. You can't tell me I don't measure up-because i say it first. Today was the first day that I could stay on the thought of needing to resolve to working as something OTHER than a teacher for the rest of my life for more than a few minutes without breaking down in tears. My heart is starting to frost over...I can tell. If it does... I just don't want to carry bitterness for the rest of my life. *** I'm trying to think of people (heard of...can't name one right now) who after NOT finding success in their chosen field rose to INCREDIBLE heights in something totally different. I'm just not sure I'm one of those. Maybe it just takes a while.
You can't think like that, McKenna! You are too good of a teacher just to give up. Students need you...Hang in there. I know easier said than done. I'm not sure how long you've been looking but I do understand what you are saying about sadness over not teaching and your heart frosting over. Last week was horrible for me. I beat myself up about the four interviews...four job opportunities that I didn't get. Honestly, though, I don't know what I could have done differently. It still hurts...I'm not going to lie...four opportunities gone. That's what kills me...who else gets an opportunity like that back to back? And then doesn't get 1 job offer? But what can I do? I've gotta pick myself up and keep pressing forward and hoping my dream job comes along. I am a big believer in things happen for a reason. I don't know why WE aren't getting these jobs and others are. But I know one day (hopefully soon) our time will come. Chin up, McKenna! You are toooooo awesome to NOT teach!
