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by Bush Teacher
Dec 30, 2012
I've tried to post this message before, but it wasn't alloweed on the board. So I am attempting again. Here is my experience of teaching in the Alaskan Bush.
I was offered a teaching position in a Bush location in Alaska. I accepted under contract at the rate of $57,466 for a contractual school year. I accepted the position on May 20, 201...See MoreI've tried to post this message before, but it wasn't alloweed on the board. So I am attempting again. Here is my experience of teaching in the Alaskan Bush.
I was offered a teaching position in a Bush location in Alaska. I accepted under contract at the rate of $57,466 for a contractual school year. I accepted the position on May 20, 2012, with the contract starting August 17, 2012. I was assigned to teach Secondary Social Studies to grades 7-12. I was the only female in the secondary portion of the school, which is what the secondary teachers wanted, because they only had men.
I moved to the location using my own funds, which cost near $10K.
On September XX, 2012, after the third break-in to the rental house I was residing in, I made my supervising principal aware I was concerned for my welfare in my rental house. The first break-in, August XX, 2012, was the taking of a Laptop, which was later recovered. The second break-in occurred August XX, 2012, nothing was taken, but I was forced to use an unloaded gun to have the individuals leave my house. On September XX, 2012, my house was again broken into. A sum of money was taken as was my personal vehicle. During this break-in I was physically assaulted. The vehicle was recovered with some damage. I filed a police report and pictures were taken of my face from the assault.
I went to my supervising principal to inform him of the circumstances of the instances that had happened. I explained to him that I did not feel safe in the house I was renting and wanted to look into finding somewhere else to live. The same day I was informed by my principal we would be attending a meeting at the district office to discuss my concerns about my safety and that was the only subject that would be discussed during the meeting. Upon immediately sitting down at the meeting the Director of Schools stated “I have asked you here to resign.” When I asked why he stated, “you have no credibility in the community.” I asked what my other options were and he stated I had “two choices either resign or face an investigation that would ruin my teaching career.” He also stated, “I’m only trying to help you with your teaching career.” I asked why he was asking for my dismissal and he stated, “You have no credibility in the community.” I had no idea why I would be investigated and he refused to further explain what an investigation would entail. He demanded my resignation, which since I was under contract which did not include a probationary period. I didn’t understand why I was not offered the due process as stated in Union Negotiation Agreement. I was not offered legal or association representation during the meeting. I was also led to believe I was attending this meeting because I had concerns for my safety at the house I was living in at the time. In a 6 week period I lived there, my house was vandalized, broken into three times, my vehicle was stolen and the last break-in included a physical assault.
I was forced to resign under coercion from my position with the district, although I had a contract that stated my employment was from August XX, 2012 to May XX, 2013, which included a salary with benefits of $57,466.
My contract specifically states that if either part decides to resign there must be a 30 day notice and must be accepted by the Board or you're in Breach of Contract.
I didn't sign anything that stated I would resign by a particular day and could change my mind about going through with an investigation. I had nothing to hide from the district or its officials. I was in such shock the, because I was led to the meeting under false circumstances , my mental clearness was not clear and I was in complete shock. The powers that be in the room were forceful, bullying and unwavering.
Due to the events that transpired on that day I was taken into protective custody by the police department due to the distress and trauma from the day’s events. I told the officer I wanted to take my life, because I was in Alaska now without a job, far from home, without any money or food, no money to get home, felt worthless, and didn’t understand any of the events that had taken place that day. The local department and a judge agreed given the events, I needed to be involuntarily committed. I was transported to Anchorage for further treatment due to my grave illness and for my safety. However, I was transferred out of the area more importantly for my protection from a parents, community members and for my well being. I had a parent threaten me with my own life.
When I initially interviewed I was asked if I was married or if I had any children. (against Federal Law0. I accepted this position because they wanted me to coach a Varsity team, which was a huge resume booster for me, but once I arrived that all changed. "There may not be a team."
During a teacher in-service a Director slept and read magazines the entire time.
I made a stink about not receiving paperwork for special education students and the entire faculty laughed at me.
I was told a specific group of people would be coming to the area and do every year for a month. During that month this group creates havoc. I was told that "you most likely wake-up with them on passed out on your couch and you better be careful, because they may even rape you."
Once students were given computer access, they had access to the internet and any printer in the building. I began receiving print outs that were discriminating, demeaning, and disgusting.
I contacted the Union Rep and asked if I could join the union and was told I could, but needed an application, that my local union rep could never produce.
From the time your contract starts and you have out of state credentials, you have 60 days to start the application process. I was told differently and threatened with my contract being changed to a different pay scale. However, I did receive my initial card and a few weeks ago I received my official certificate for the state.
During my few weeks there, the Police Chief left, as did another officer and another officer was asked to resign, because he was stalking community member.
I sent a letter of demand to the district in question and now I am having to go through other channels.
Now, I have another friend in the Bush that absolutely loves it. It's all about finding the right community. I still have good friends in the community I lived in, but it's been costly financially and emotionally with what happened to me, especially (I swear on my grandmother's grave) that I did nothing that would bring cause my termination.
So, if you want to teach in Alaska, the money is great. Outsiders are not readily accepted and I recommend, unless you're a man, don't go there alone. Go with a significant other. Get everything in writing that is offered and if you can afford to, visit the area you will teach in before you accept the job.
Are there a lot of elementary jobs for males in Alaska?
by Jill Arnzen
Apr 23, 2013
I am searching for High School Alaska teachers that might be interested in teaching part time virtually with K12. This is a great opportunity to get into the virtual world of teaching and has a very flexible schedule.
Let me know if you are interested.
Jill
by Jorge Aleman
Apr 29, 2013
Greetings!
Ten lessons so far on basic math on youtube.com channel
Jalemanmathminute Pls. Share info. I mean well!
by Dannie S. Harris
Sep 28, 2013
Attention Teachers!
Do you want an opportunity to take part in research that could positively impact your students and your classroom? By participating in our short survey, you will be helping us collect data for a study investigating obstacles and feasibility of psychological recommendations. Because these scenarios may be similar to wha...See MoreAttention Teachers!
Do you want an opportunity to take part in research that could positively impact your students and your classroom? By participating in our short survey, you will be helping us collect data for a study investigating obstacles and feasibility of psychological recommendations. Because these scenarios may be similar to what you have seen in your classroom, your input is very valuable! Once you complete the survey, you will be eligible for a $25 gift certificate to reallygoodstuff.com. Please feel free to pass this along to your teacher friends and co-workers as we need as many responses as we can get! All responses are completely confidential and participation is optional. Thank you!
Jessica E. Emick, Ph.D., Faculty Supervisor
Dannie S. Harris, M.A., M.A.Ed., Ed.S., Doctoral Student
Rebecca E. Norton, M.A., Doctoral Student
Athena Hubbard, M.A., Doctoral Student
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I don't know about the rest of the story, but I don't think this is accurate information. You are supposed to have an A...See More