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This thread is really hard for me to write since it’s been a source of stress and hurt over the last few weeks, but I know I need to get it out so it stops cycling in my mind. Also I owe it to the many people I’ve encouraged to teach, to share the realities of this system.
Recently I found out that my contract will not be renewed by my district next year. Not because of my performance, or any ethics/legal violations. But because the union/district seniority agreement says when budget cuts happen they have to cut those newest to the profession first
No consideration of performance, evaluations, impact on the school community, or anything- simply yrs of experience. That system is wrong and needs to change. The goal should be to put the best educator in front of our kids, regardless of if they’ve taught for 20 yrs or 1.
This cuts deep because of how much I’ve invested in my school. I volunteer on Wed. to support seniors at-risk of not graduating. I picked mostly black/brown kids from low-SES because I wanted them to see someone that looks likes them and knows how to make it out of that situation
I’ve worked hard to change the culture of our school through the ASB program. Expanding our staff initiatives, developing a dedicated leadership curriculum, and created new recognition programs to highlight the work of all of our staff and students.
I worked with my principal to create focus groups that would provide specialized support and fellowship for students of color, students who identify with the lgbtq community, and women. COVID paused those plans but we were ready for full implementation next Fall. So many plans...
I’ve suggested to my union a system that balances seniority with evaluations, performance, involvement (committees, task forces, coaching or advising) and other negotiated factors. Anything other than that promotes the idea that “all teachers are the same”. Well, we are not
Additionally, as we know districts have gone on a big push to hire a more diverse teaching force, so the majority of hires of color will constantly have the fear of being “rif’d” (reduction in force) through the first 4-5 years of their career. Not a great retention strategy.
There’s a small chance my district will offer me a contract later in the summer but waiting for that puts me at risk of not getting an offer and not having done an extensive job search. So in addition to speaking out against the seniority-based system, I’m also hoping for help
If anyone has leads on jobs let me know! I have a Masters in Education, and both teaching and administrative experience. My admin exp. includes budgeting, program management, supervision, and policy development. I would love an ASB/Activities job but I know that they are rare.
Lastly, to my young educators out there, please take care of yourself. It may hurt to believe it but we are simply numbers in a system. Never sacrifice your health for you career. I did too often and am now on the other side wishing I had that time back. Put yourself first!
