Update

Thank you, everyone, for giving me some solid advice on how to handle this latest nonsense. I did in fact speak with the Principal yesterday morning in person. According to him, my schedule would remain the same as last year (6th grade Humanities). However *cue dramatic music*, the new vice-principal later calls me up to her office and informs me that I will in fact be required to teach 6-8 grade Science and Social Studies. She promises an aide, support materials, etc. but I don't think she understands that I have no flippin' interest in Science, and trust me, I did support my case in a rationale manner!

The only step holding me away from a preliminary teaching license is passing the State licensure test in Middle School Humanities. Once I do that (lord willing I'll have my passing score by December 20007), then the last step is mere paperwork. I did inquire about any last minute teaching opportunities in my local public school system with my former guidance counselor just to see what's up... I tell you, this whole situation has really left a sour taste in my mouth about teaching, and most especially, about ineffective administrators. While it wouldn't be fair to the kids to jet once the school year has begun, what sense does it make to agree to teach something that I know I have no passion in?

Changes

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?