The education world is knee deep in hiring season. Educators across the country are making decisions for the following school year. Administrators are living in two different worlds; finishing one school year, while planning for the upcoming school year. Many educators are also trying to makes decisions regarding their careers. Hard decisions will need to be made in the coming weeks.
No situation is going to be perfect, that’s just the nature of things. Oftentimes, people’s professional needs grow and change, necessitating a longing for change. Family dynamics, living arrangements, health, and financial reasons could all play a part in career decisions. The reasons vary from person to person.
When you’ve worked in a school district for a long period of time there could be advantages. Being in the same place for a while could also be a hindrance. You develop a network of people that know you and have developed opinions about who you are professionally. Sometimes this can be good, but it could also limit opportunities.
Educators should always seek growth opportunities. Many districts provide various offerings for professional development. How educators approach these options makes a difference. Taking full advantage of professional development adds tools to their repertoire and makes them more marketable.
With the current state of education, things can seem unsettling. There is more uncertainty around people’s employment prospects. This is causing some uneasiness. Decisions are being made based on experiences in educators current working environments.
I am sure that you’ve heard the saying “be where your feet are”. This means that there is a need to be present in your current situation. Even if your current assignment is not working for you, there is value in every experience.
My advice is to continue to learn and grow. Use the knowledge and skills that you have obtained to leverage your next position. Take every opportunity and look at it as a chance to market yourself. You never know what could happen. I have taken the attitude that I am right where I need to be. I am constantly looking for ways to improve myself and do not shy away from new opportunities.
If you work for a district that pours into you, that is a good place to be. If not, you have to take the initiative to grow professionally. Your growth is non negotiable. Until there is an opportunity to move on, please find ways to better yourself and make the best of your situation.
My Life In Education… 