I found out earlier this week that the teaching job I was hoping to get before the end of the summer was given to the other candidate. This was my last chance for attaining a new position before the new school year. Of course, a mid-year position is still a possibility. In the meantime, I’ve been thinking through next steps for September. I’m fortunate to have a job that, while I don’t relish for many reasons, is still a provision for my family.

Yes, I know that I should have been working through this much earlier than now. It’s true! BUT, I had two positions where I was in the final two for the job, except I couldn’t seal the deal with the superintendent. It was like this last year too. In the end, though, I know how difficult art education jobs are to come by. Many people–even those within education–don’t seem to realize that teaching art is highly competitive; history/social studies probably would be a very close second. I found that out after getting to know a couple of teachers at my current school.

Although my present gig is a tough one, I’m fortunate to have a job with good benefits for my family. And, that’s what I need focus on. I’m gaining valuable experience even though many of my kids don’t see the value in what I’m teaching. So, that’s what I’m going to set out to tackle first–the importance of art.

Any thoughts you have, pass ‘em along!