A Life Change

I haven't posted in so long mostly because I wasn't ready to make this announcement. (Although I think most of you who read this have heard through the grapevine of family already). In the middle of March, I was told that my contract would not be renewed. The good news is that when a future employer calls my principal, the reason he'll be giving is because of budget cuts. I've since found out that there is a projected 9 teachers being cut from my school. It makes this a bit easier knowing that I'm not the only one leaving. I have such a great department! They have rallied around me in support and are praying for me.

Although this hasn't been a great experience, it's been an answered prayer. Since January I had been trying to decide what to do next year. I love my job, coworkers, and school, but I hate the hours and the amount of time I am taken away from Julia. I had been debating if I should stay or leave and look for a part time job. The decision was made for me and in the end, I'm ok with that. I talked to my department head, and if there are funds next year for the math tutor, I will be the first one called for the position. That would be a perfect job for me! It's 2 or 3 days a week and I get to still be a part of the school with all of the students. Now, I know you may be thinking that it's crazy to hope for this position, but here's what many times happens:

- Budget cuts are made

- Money is "found" (I don't know how, but it is) or it is discovered that money they have can only be used for certain things

- The tutoring position is reinstated

Last year, we weren't supposed to have money for a tutor, but the district wanted us to do all of these interventions (extra help for the students) and we complained that they were asking us to do this without the resources and magically we had money for a math tutor again. So, while a long shot, it is still possible. I won't know until August. But, since teachers here get paid on a 12 month cycle, I don't need a job until then anyway.

I wasn't ready for the announcement until now and that's why the silence on my end here. Now, I

just have to tell my kiddos.