Is it just me….or maybe it’s just the time of year…but I feel
like I’m getting antsy at this time of year and I'm staring to have the, “What’s
next??” thoughts. Not just what’s next at my school or in my job, but what’s
next in my career, in general (and in my life…but that’s an issue for a whole
different blog! J).
This time of year partially fuels it. Not only are we starting the discussions
for master schedule, teaching assignments, etc. for next school year, but we
have also already turned in our employment intent forms and expect contracts to
be issued by Valentine’s Day. Also, we got a calendar the day after MLK that
listed the leadership meeting dates for our county for the entire 2016-17
school year. If that doesn’t make you start planning ahead, not much will!
Here’s my question, though. Mainly as a result of this Ed.
S. program, I’m starting to look ahead at what my next position will be or what
career move I'll make next. I’m starting to look at broader options. Is anyone
else feeling the distraction of that? If so, is it hurting your productivity at
work? By no means am I “checked out” or anything like that. I don't believe the field of education really allows you to “check out” at any time. I really just wanted to
gauge how many of us are planning on making a career move after this school
year (or maybe as soon as possible for some people)! This program has really
helped me to broaden my scope, as well as believe in my abilities a little more.
So…yeah…I’m first on the list of people who are looking to move on up!
I am being forced into a change. Our grant runs out this year and I will not have a position next year. I am an employee of McClarin HS through FCS, not FOR FCS. I spent the November break applying to school districts and then December a couple more. I believe that we are entering a time where finding a new position means you have to know someone. Education has fast become very political.
ReplyDeleteI am reaching out to anyone I know who may be able to get me in the door. Unlike you, I am in the twilight of my career and am a VERY expensive hire. To move forward, I will more than likely have to take a step back with regard to salary. I am excited about new opportunities, but I have no idea where that will be!
Tim, you would make a great grad coach! You should apply for those jobs in FCS. They're one of the few counties who still utilize the position. Others have cut it. You should look for that job, because you would rock that!
DeleteI believe it is a good thing that you are continually looking for opportunities. I will say that one of the best ways to "move up" is to do an amazing job at your current job :)
ReplyDeleteThis is true, but I agree with Tim, as well. You have to know someone, too. It's hard to convince people that you would do a great job if they haven't seen it for themselves.
DeleteI too am starting to think about my next move. I must admit, that I am hesitant even though I know it's time. I just don't like a lot of change. I so want out of the classroom, but I think I will miss constant contact with my students. I don't want to be like some administrators I know and be disconnected.
ReplyDeleteBest advice I ever got was from a boss who told me, "You've mastered this position. Time to move on and master something higher. The kids deserve that from you."
DeleteYou should think about that, too! :-)
I hear ya, Kristen! It always makes me anxious this time of year that we already have to start thinking about issuing contracts for next year, hiring for next year, and (as a private school) issuing enrollment contracts to families for next year. So many big decisions, and so far in advance!
ReplyDeleteWhat do you mostly do in your current position, and what would you prefer to do in your next move? Are they're things you're dissatisfied with, or just ready for a new challenge?
A little bit of both, Jen! :-) But my job is whatever a high school assistant principal does. That's basically my title. So I'm really just looking for something where I feel like I'm making a difference. The world of APs doesn't always lend to that. Sadly enough.
DeleteI am constantly thinking about my next position because I have been in the charter school world a few years and I know contracts are not guaranteed. It distracts me sometimes and worries me that I will check out before its time. I like what Dr. Sauers said about excelling at your current position in order to move up. So I'm working on "finishing strong" whether that means the school year or this position.
ReplyDeleteI'm basically of your frame of mind, Patrice. Great way of putting it. Working hard...but always on the look out! :-)
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