On finding a new job…

With our Army lifestyle, I've been lucky enough to find the kind of teaching positions where I can really use my talents.  People have often suggested to me that I should try part-time work, or I should tutor, or maybe I could do something else for awhile.  I've often even tossed around the idea of working in real estate.  The exercise instructor thing didn't pan out for a few different reasons, but fitness is something I still believe in and want to incorporate into my day-to-day routine again.

Truthfully, and this is going to sound like I'm bragging and putting myself down all at the same time, teaching is the only thing I've ever really been good at.  And we should do what we're good at, right?

A few tears were shed last August when I didn't have a job for the school year.  August is my favorite month because that's when school starts.  I am, and forever will be, someone who loves school.  Luckily, I was hired to teach 2nd grade three weeks after the year started.  It was a whirlwind and a blessing.

As I was packing up my classroom over the last few weeks, I was wondering "Will I get to use this stuff again?"  "Maybe in an upper grade level?"  "Please God, not more 2nd grade…".

I had the same thoughts last year in Alaska when I was packing up.  Although, I really only took half my Alaska classroom with me; I left a lot because the year wasn't over when we PCSed.  

Now, the difference has been that I've been applying for jobs in Colorado for about two months now.  I think I started applications around spring break in March.  Or at least it was on the to-do list.  I might've waited until April.  I've had 3 interviews over the last 3 weeks.  One was for a 7th grade Language Arts position.  That, to be honest, terrified me because it would've pushed me into quite unfamiliar territory.  I'm certified to teach it; I just never have.  Comfort is sometimes key.  I didn't get that job and I realized that was the first interview I'd had since 2010 that didn't work out.  I told myself there was something better out there.

Two weeks ago, I had an interview for a 4th grade position.  A few days later, the principal called to offer me the job.

To say I am elated to be heading back into the 4th grade classroom would be an understatement.  I feel this enormous sense of relief.  Of excitement.  Of anticipation.  Of teaching being what it used to be for me.  You know, back when I had a group of kids who would make me cry with their sweetness and make me laugh everyday.

Sure, I think I'm setting lofty ideals, because I haven't even seen my new school yet, but I'm hopeful.  I'm hopeful that I can start to really love teaching again.

And that 30 minute commute that I'll have is totally not freaking me out.  I have't commuted more than 10 minutes since 2011.  Let's not think about it right now.