Next Year

 I found out this week that my job is going back to part time next year.

After passing the Praxis, taking a million classes, being willing to go full-time when I didn't want to, and making it work, it feels like a punch in the gut. I'm far more bummed than I thought I would be. I have helped changed the culture of TBE and become an impactful member of our staff, creating a lot of opportunities for our students that they didn't have before. Not being full time next year feels like the district doesn't value what I have done.

But, because my principal is awesome and does value me, she said, "we want to keep you, and we will do whatever we need to do to keep you. We will find another .5 for you if you want, or .3 , or whatever you want."

I went home and talked to Ben and we decided that if I am .5 GT, and then .3 with whatever my principal wants me to do, that would be ideal. I gave my principal a schedule of what, in a perfect world, I would want- getting off everyday at 2:45 so I can be home when my kids get home, and then have Friday afternoons off so I can spend Friday afternoons with Ben. That would actually be a perfect schedule.

I e-mailed my GT feeder team- co-workers in the district who have become friends. One of them sent me this sweet e-mail which made me feel better:

Christina,

I’m truly sorry that you’re going through this at your school. Being new to this position myself, I don’t yet have the knowledge to offer advice on how the GT formula determines FTE per school. However, I want you to know how much I appreciate and admire your dedication to advocating for the GT population.

From listening to you speak in our team and district meetings to seeing the resources and insights you’ve shared through email, it’s clear that you are an invaluable asset to your school, community, and our GT Feeder group. Your hard work and passion do not go unnoticed.

Thank you for being open about your feelings—we are all here to support you during this challenging time.

With appreciation,

Blaine