Another dumb, crazy, stupid idea. Or is it?
I quit my job last week. Wrote the letter and everything. As of 28th January I will no longer be employed, no longer be able to call myself ‘a teacher’…. perhaps I’ll get invited out to more dinner parties? (1 min 19 sec) Now there’s an upside.
I have quit for a number of reasons. But I’m looking forward and not back. I’m beginning to think that being in the classroom environment, in the school I am in, is a little limited – there are bigger challenges to face over the intergration of ICT into the education system and I’m wanting to focus on a bigger picture for a while. Think I’ll pick up my MA again in Semester 2 next year (providing I haven’t starved to death before then). Going to spend a lot of time at home over the summer… might even get the vegetable patch to yield a crop.
Then I’ll do relieving (supply teaching or substitute teacher- depending on which continent your reading this from) Then I can spend more of my time focusing on the stuff I know I’m good at.
I read somewhere recently that if you want to be the best at something you have to cut other stuff loose so that you can spend some time on it.
Well I’m wanting to do some teacher training (as in training the teachers) It is with my understanding – limited as I feel it is in this forum- that I want to share the uses, benefits of technology in the intergrated curriculum. I also want to get out and about- see some other school in this part of the world – find out what others are doing and share good practise- even if some of it isn’t mine.
What is a job in this day and generation? Now I’m stepping out and feeling like I can stretch my wings. Focus my attention. Still have to pay the bills mind so I’ll probably end up with more classroom time than I’d hope for but I feel its a noble (and scary quest) – If anyone out there needs a hand I’ll be available from 28th January.
You are very brave- I found last term when I took LWOP that you don’t need to spend a lot of money on the extra stuff that we think we need.
I hope you keep on blogging about your journey as it is one that many of us ordinary teachers think about doing but are often too scared of.
I would love to have the courage to do the same.
All the best.
Allanah
Dear Dragon09,
Your quest is noble and totally understandable. You should always consider yourself a teacher, I’m sure you will find yourself teaching others no matter what your job title defines.
The job you describe that you want is mine. I am an instructional coach in a Learning Community. I visit every classroom, conduct observation lessons daily, model best practice for teachers, facilitate professional development both in my school and in the district. I focus on the big picture for moving the school forward in curriculum and instruction. This year’s focus is on the integration of technology. I also get out to other places. I attend about 3 national conferences a year and do consulting work across our nation in mathematics, literacy, and leadership. I also host upwards of 400 administrators, teachers, and business executives each year to showcase the work going on in our school. This allows me to stay in contact with educators across our nation.
My principal trusts me to work hard but really does not define my role. Each year (its been 6 years now) my role changes slightly based off the focus I set. I find that this allows me to continue to develop professionally so I have more to offer others. I stay flexible, set my own schedule, and get paid (as a teacher) for the job I adore.
Keep seeking your dream job…I’m rooting for you!
Do you want to come to a dinner party…
Seriously, a huge loss for Peterhead but could be a gain for the teaching community at large.
Good luck!
Congratulations!
Sounds like a strange things to say… but I think as Jenny says above this could be a great gain for others and yourself.
Scary but well worth it, good luck!
Well done Simon. I am sure most teachers can say they have considered doing the same. I will be watching with interest what you get up to. We always need relievers in Auckland…. a huge shortage at the moment if you want to come up here!
Simon - I admire your courage. I reckon you have just changed up into 5th gear by making this move. May it make you a better man, educator and Father. May God bless you and your decision.
WOW, what a decision to make!
I’m sure a fantastic opportunity will open up and come your way now that you’ve made the big leap of faith
I admire your vision! How exciting! I plan on living vicariously through your non-steady-working life and seeing what cool things you will be able to do.