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On 6/15/16, RL wrote:
> Why is it so difficult to get a teaching gig? Oh yeah,
> because the colleges keep pushing out more & more
> teacher-candidates than the state knows what do with
> them. I've got a BA in Spanish, a MS in Childhood
> Education, a certification in 1-6, two years of teaching
> experience and am going back to school to work on a
> Literacy B-6 and Spanish 7-12 certification, which will
> hopefully *HELP* me at the end. My loans are piling up,
> the clock on the initial license is ticking (blah)
>
> I knew it wasn't going to be easy getting a gig, but hot
> damn! It's almost criminal that the colleges continue to
> take thousands from students, knowing full well that
> there won't be a job waiting at the end. Surely we have
> responsibility too, but they could say on day 1 , "Oh by
> the way guys, prepare to fight for a job Hunger Games
> style!" It's really icky.
>
> Anybody have any tips, advice or "You can do it" stories
> to help me (and other hopefuls) more optimistic about
> employment in "The Empire State"?
>
> Thanks,
> RL

Dear RL,
The fact is that the enrollment in schools of education has
drastically dropped since CCSS has appeared on the scene
for numerous reasons. Presently there is a shortage of good,
certified teachers.

There could be many reasons why districts aren’t hiring you.
In NY, students must go through an accredited program to
get certified. Are you asking the right qualified people for
recommendations?

When you go for an interview you have to present yourself as
a professional not only in the way you speak but also in the
way you dress and conduct yourself.

Your opening question doesn’t sound very professional to
me. I never heard of anyone referring to teaching as a “gig.”
The use of slang in an interview or application isn’t going to
be well received. If you want a job don’t let money be an
issue- don’t even ask what your salary would be until they
show an interest in you. You may have to be willing
to move to acquire a teaching position.

You also need to have a real desire, understanding, and
respect for the age group you want to teach.

Wish you success in your search.
MD

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