Hello, My husband (an instrumental music teacher) and I (a
visual arts teacher) are considering a move to a warmer
climate after having WAY too many snow days in VT, and we
have several questions. We heard about possible legislation
to make housing affordable for teachers in HI. Does it look
like this will become a reality any time soon, and who
would be eligible? Several of our friends mentioned that
many of the benefits/bonuses/incentives available to
teachers in HI may only be available to returning native
Hawaiians. Is that the case?
Second, I know there are certain shortage areas, and music
and art do not qualify. However, we also noticed a great
need for special ed teachers, and may have an alternative
proposition where my husband is concerned. We live in rural
Vermont, and through grants and development of new
curriculum, my husband has created a rather unique music
program that is very student- centered, and very
contemporary. He developed an electric guitar lab among
other things and has taught a large percentage of students
how to play guitar and has formed several student
ensembles, resulting in many students who were considered
largely "at risk" to turn themselves around and earn a
diploma. Does anyone know of a school or region in HI that
would consider implementing an alternative music program
either in place of, or in addition to, a special ed
program? My husband's greatest strength is working with so
called "at risk" students. Also, we don't mind not living
in or near a major city, in fact we enjoy being more
"rural" and would be open to any HI placement. I know this
is a lot of rambling. We're just looking into all
possibilities at this point. We have considered Florida,
for the warmer climate, but it's just too darn FLAT!
Anyway, any advice or information would be greatly
appreciated. We're not in any rush. Just exploring options
at this point.
Thanks! Jen in snow and sleet covered VT
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