Hi Gang,
After teaching art for an ice age, and going through the lay-off notices,
part-time positions, multiple sites to-make-a-full-time-job, I had finally
had it. I needed a few back-up areas of authorization for teaching. At
least in California, once you have the first credential, you can take the
state subject area tests and if you pass, that authorization is added to
your credential.
I've found that administration is much more interested in keeping us art
folk on when they can also use us to teach other subjects. I found that
world history made a great combination with art. Afterall, we have all
those classes in art history and it makes an easy fit for integration into
social studies.
My philosophy with these tests was to NOT STUDY, just take the test. If I
failed one part of them, THEN I would know what I needed to study to pass
the next time. And even if I just squeaked by to pass, no one ever asks
what percentile one got on the test!!!
As it turned out, I did pass everything (some of them where squeakers) and
now have a multiple subjects credential (never used), and a single subject
credential in social studies, besides my art credential. A few years later,
I got my MA in Educational Technology and that is what I now teach. They
can make me teach things I haven't taught before, but they can't get rid of
me!!
Just my 2 cents worth!
-Alix E. Peshette
Technology Coordinator
Emerson Junior High School
Davis, CA
-----Original Message-----
From: Mark Alexander [mailto:markcalexander@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, January 17, 2003 3:54 AM
To: ArtsEdNet Talk
Subject: I'm frustrated.
I have been looking for work in Berkshire County Massachusetts (and
surrounding area) but just got bad news. Due to the state budget crisis, Mt.
Greylock High School in Williamstown just announced that in June they plan
on laying off the last hire teacher from each department. At least it's
unilateral, but this is not good news for me. I suspect other schools will
be taking similar measures, if they haven't done so already, which
translates into a difficult job hunting market. I have been forced to
withdraw my deposit for a studio loft in North Adams. Now I'm wondering how
secure my position here in Connecticut really is. I'm frustrated. Just
venting. Please do let me know if you have any leads.
