Thanks, y'all. It does, indeed, suck.
Is it because of the getting-rid-of-drama stuff??
Interestingly, not really. Supposedly, as in promised to the community but their promises aren't worth shit, there will be a semester drama class at 8th grade and an expanded after school drama program. But, there isn't anyone else in my building certified to teach drama.
I've been told it's due to financial issues. Which, again interestingly, a state senator told us at a board meeting last night that the district was spazzing out too early and that the state will pay, albeit late, but the money they owe us is indeed coming. AND, we'll be getting a bit more on top of it from the feds' stimulus package.
I'm one of 4 in my building to get RIF'd. Me, a social studies teacher, a Spanish/art teacher, and ?? I don't know who the 4th one is.
Over 120 teachers in the district are getting RIF'd. I suspect they'll end up hiring back 100 of them. I also suspect I won't be one of them. Admin seems to think that I riled up organized the Save Drama protests by the students and their parents. I didn't, but even if I did, fat lot of good that did.
That really sucks, ChiKat. All the best to you in getting a new (and better) position.
How funny do I find the inherent drama in a "Save Drama" protest? It's oxymoronic, in a weird way.
ChiKat, that totally sucks. I am sorry. It doesn't help, but at least you have the prime teachin job season to send out resumes. Last year, I got my "no contract renewal" speech on May 2nd -- 4 days before major surgery.
My advice? Start NOW, today. It burns like hell, but do not wait.
According to our contract, they have to give out RIF's at least 45 school days from the end of the year, so the deadline this year is March 17 (I think).
I started job hunting back in January when they told me the drama program was getting cut. I updated my resume and stuff. I know of 3 speech/drama positions and I have already applied for them. This month is when most of the posting will go up, so I hope to find more positions coming available soon.
I'm also starting to look out of state. Mainly Colorado and Iowa.
My principal did say she'd write me a letter of recommendation, so that's good.
ChiKat, I'm so sorry. That SUCKS. And just out of curiosity, what does "RIF" stand for?
Erin! Glad to hear you recuperating so well! It's so nice to see you around here.
You're using the REAP system, right? Don't forget that some schools are stupid and don't post there. I used REAP and went directly to district websites -- sometimes, even with REAP, you have to apply both places.
Job-hunting for teaching positions sucks ASS.
Reduction in Force, as I'm sure will be cross-posted. Ever so much better than "downsizing," don't you agree?
Amy, it's good to see you too! It's been a while, hey?
I'm also starting to look out of state. Mainly Colorado
Ohhhh, I'm seeing a silver lining. Douglas County schools - check them out.
Is Clark County (Las Vegas) still the fastest-growing district in the country? How do you feel about desert and sin, ChiKat?