I am afraid this is a wait and see situation. Old Faithful made
some excellent suggestions. I would, however, be prepared to
carefully document any problems if they come up. Personally, I
would be a little leery if that happened to me but the
possibility exists that the teacher may actually be a help to
you, especially since this is your first year. You may find
that you make a great team. It could happen.

On 6/04/09, Old Faithful M. wrote:
> On 6/03/09, new teacher wrote:
>> I just got hired to teach at a private school. I'm
>> currently working towards my teaching certificate and this
>> is my first time teaching. At this school, you have 3 to
>> earn your certificate while you teach. My aide will be last
>> year's teacher!! She's been there for 10 years, teaching
>> for 3. She didn't get certified for some reason or another
>> and is stepping down as the aid. I've been warned by
>> another aide that she has no intention of stepping down and
>> will run this classroom like it's her own. What should I
>> do? I just don't want her to make my first year teaching
>> unbearable because the only one's that will suffer are the
>> children.
>
> Some of the reason it could be unbearable is having people
> gossip about the situation..."putting a bug in your ear."
>
> In these economic times, it may be that the admin. cares
> about the former teacher and her needs and really values her
> gifts. They obviously value yours, as well and believe both
> of you can make it work. They know you and they know her.
>
> Maybe certification was beyond her means.
>
> I would have a meeting with the person with whom you will be
> working and make nice and clear the air. Unless you talk
> directly to her and get a sense of her attitude toward you
> and your new relationship as lead in the classroom, you
> cannot assume it will be difficult or hostile.
>
> I have had numerous aides and volunteers in the classroom and
> they are often the extra hands that are so helpful. I would
> think ahead of what your expectations are for an aide and
> have that in your mind going into a meeting, but also use
> your people skills to disarm her if she is also feeling
> aprehensive.
>
> Be open to the possibilities, but also clear about not
> confusing children and parents when it comes to articulating
> progress and expectations and curriculum and your methods.
>
> Ask the aide questions. She can be a valuable resource. And,
> if difficulties arise, involve the admin. as a mediator, if
> necessary.
>
> It is unusual and uncomfortable, to be sure, but it is what
> it is, for now.
>
> Best wishes to you both.

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