The last few months have been hectic to say the least. There's been so much transition both in my personal life and in the classroom that writing has, quite sadly, been pushed to the side. I'm trying to get back into the habit of blogging, but I can't guarantee anything. For now I'll try to give you a glimpse into my life.
Awesome News
Let's start with the good news....Ray started working a full time job on April 1st! He's working for a company that opened a satellite office in Clifton, NJ as their IT person. He commutes an hour and a half or so by train each way and usually is at work by 7:30am. Since this isn't what he primarily studied in school he's also taking training classes at least once a week and often works during the weekends on projects. The pay is reasonable for a start up position and the company has even agreed to reimburse him for his travel expenses (a monthly train pass costs $240) and training expenses!
Crazy School News
After 3 years of working as a teaching assistant I received tenure from the district. Unfortunately I was one of the first employees to end up with the dreaded stomach flu and couldn't make the ceremony. After being out sick for three days it was nice to come back to kids and staff who missed me so much. Sometimes I go through my days wondering if I make a difference in the classroom, so feeling appreciated was a much needed blessing.
The teacher I was working with went on maternity leave at the beginning of March. One of the other assistants took her maternity leave. In addition we've had a student teacher, a student we tried mainstreaming return to our room for the full day, and a new aide working with us. It's been a little stressful dealing with all the new people. The teacher is returning from leave next week, so yet another adjustment will need to be made by both students and staff.
Looking Towards the Future
After discussing the current job market in education with many people I've learned that the principals around here are only looking at resumes with 3 or more certifications. I only have two. After much prayerful consideration I've decided to go back to grad school in the fall. Long Island University is offering a 21 credit Advanced Certificate in Special Education for people who already have at least one teaching certificate and master's degree. I'm still waiting on a few items to submit, but if all goes well I'll start classes in September. This means that I'll be quitting my babysitting job - along with the helpful off the book income it provides. Don't ask me how I'm going to pay for this because I honestly don't know.
Prayer Requests
- timing and wording for how to break the news of going to grad school to the mom of the boys I babysit.
- financial provision for grad school.
- ability to have more quality time with Ray.
- my position for next year. At the very least I'll still have my current job (that's a guarantee) but the special ed program is being rearranged so I may be working in the autistic class, the learning disabled class, or the emotionally disturbed class. There will be two classes in each classification and four of those classes will be held in different buildings. I'm not sure where I'd prefer to be quite honestly.
