I just got off the phone with one of my team teachers and the shit has officially hit the fan! I'm 3/4 of the way certified as a 5-8 grade Humanities teacher (I work at a charter school which does not require their teachers to be certified at the time of hire). Please explain to me why:
--I may be teaching 6-8 grade Science (I have NO experience with science beyond my k-12 education. Hello, my degrees are in African American Studies and Gender/Cultural Studies!!)
--I called the principal yesterday and explicitly ASKED him if I would still be teaching 6th grade Humanities as I want to be prepared with lesson plans for the first 2 weeks. According to that conversation, he said that I'll still be teaching 6th Humanities.
And the kicker
--The principal has not called me yet! Rather, these changes was relayed to me at least 2 times removed (school secretary, team teacher).
I have to curb my initial reaction to this bullshit and calmly explain my position tomorrow. Here's my initial script:
I am concerned about some recent changes to the Middle School staff at H______ Charter School. In the interests of the students and preparation for the State examination, I would prefer to remain in the subject matter that I have some expertise in: Humanities. I understand that change is inevitable, however, if at all possible, the school should retain/attract a teacher with more direct experience teaching or working in a science-related field for the Middle School level. I hope that you take my concerns into account while preparing for the new school year.
Fellow teachers, I need your feedback. How would you handle this situation? Should I get my certification, give my 2 week notice, and leave these suckers in the dust? Has this ever happened to you?
4 comments:
That's just great. Maybe you can do a little gym on the side, too. The reason they hire uncertified teachers, imo, is the same reason why McDonalds' and all their processing plants hire unskilled workers: they're giving you "a chance" so there's less chance of you rebelling against the working conditions. Without certification, you have a MUCH harder time getting into a public school. I'd say more here, but it's much too public.
Peace ...
Just what do you need to do to get your certification? Perhaps you should get your certification and leave granted they don't allow you to teach humanities (humanities and science are far from equivalent, especially with the advanced curriculum these days). First, however, be sure that there are humanities positions to be filled elsewhere... you wouldn't want to quit one job without having another!
i agree with professora. When will your licensure be complete? What else is needed?
Secondly, just ask him instead of going on word of mouth. Once you know for sure then you can talk about where to go from there . ..
Thank you all for your feedback. I'll post an update in a moment.
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