| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| happymama58 |
Posted - Jul 01 2006 : 11:30:20 AM
Well, ladies, it's over. After all these weeks of the district telling me they would not "hold" my teaching license whether I resigned, was fired, etc., just before the hearing was to start Thursday night, their attorney made an offer to settle. The offer was that if I resigned, I'd keep my certificate, they'd refer all inquiries (from future employers) to whichever person I wanted them to (my assistant principal, who was set to testify for me), and they would provide all my evaluations (which are excellent) to prospective employers. On the other hand, he said that if I fought this, they would "hold" my certificate, meaning I could never teach again unless I won the case. My attorney said he felt I had a very good chance to win in appeal, but there was no guarantee, and this would leave me without any means to ever teach again! Once again, they had lied to me all along and then sprang this on me at the last minute.
I prayed & thought about it in the little time I had (tried to call my husband but he was at work and they couldn't get him to the phone) and I decided to resign. It was on the front page of the paper, in a well-written but short article, so now all principals/superintendents in the area know what happened. It basically said I was facing termination for lying about not attending the conference, but it also quoted my attorney who stated this was done in retaliation for actions taken by the teachers' organization when I was president. The article also quoted a glowing recommendation written by my principal just last spring in which he says how dedicated and dynamic a teacher I am and started out with the fact that I was Teacher of the Year 2 years ago. After I have my certificate back in my possession, I will sit down with the reporter for an interview and he wants me to give details about the harassment. My assistant principal is probably also going to be interviewed and he plans to tell them that the principal specifically told him that the superintendent told him to come up with something to fire me over because of the survey. By the way, a male teacher did the exact same thing -- skipped a conference (not because he was sick but because he got tickes to some ball game) -- and all they did was dock his pay. That will be in the article, too.
I feel like I let the other teachers down because the board never heard what's been going on, but hopefully they'll get this from the next article. I was just so afraid to lose my certificate/license to teach. It's embarassing to know that everyone in the area and where I live now (it's only 28 miles from here and lots of people there get this newspaper) and all our friends, etc., where we moved from have heard this, but it's something I have to live with. I cannot begin to express how much I'm going to miss my students and the friends I taught with, and how horrible I feel about this whole thing. Not to mention the fact that as of September (I get paid through the end of the contract year and the last check will be in August), we've lost 40% of our household income.
I know that God is in charge and this will all work out, but it's hard to focus on that, particularly when the fears and doubts start running through my mind. I really, really appreciate all the kind words and concern that you ladies have extended to me -- it means more to me than you'll ever know.
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
http://happymama58.typepad.com/my_weblog/ |
| 22 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Destiny~ |
Posted - Jul 21 2006 : 05:23:53 AM
Patti, you might want to check with your library and see if they have a small room you could use for tutoring. Our library has all sorts of little rooms that most people don't know exist. Just a thought.
"Let us, together, sow seeds for a better harvest-a harvest for hope."
Jane Goodall, Harvest for Hope |
| Tina Michelle |
Posted - Jul 20 2006 : 2:14:27 PM
have you tried offering your teaching services to homeschool groups? hosting things such as theme days..on topics in nature or science or things like that? You could charge like $5 per student for a couple of hour class on a single topic include a hand out or two for them. Maybe show a film, etc.
You could also offer tutoring services to homeschooler's in your area, as well as annual homeschool evaluations of the students work, where you just look over the work the parent has given and certify that the student has achieved adequate skills for the year.There are several teachers in our area that do this sort of thing to supplement their incomes.
~Seize the Day! Live, Love, Laugh~ |
| happymama58 |
Posted - Jul 20 2006 : 1:32:37 PM
Nancy Jo, what a sweet offer, and I really do appreciate it. Really, your encouragement and prayers are enough. This is something I have to work through. I know that good is going to come of this in some way, so I just have to be patient and hang in there.
Elizabeth, I do have my assistant principal on my side, but my principal was a definite problem for me all year. And now that it's been in the paper that I resigned rather than be fired, I don't know how my reputation has been affected. I've heard from quite a few people that those "in the know" are aware that my former district is a mess, but parents in the community and where I used to live (8 miles away) probably don't have a clue. Now that I've moved 30 miles away, these 2 towns are still the closest to me, but I have no place to tutor. I thought about using the public library, but privacy is an issue, so that really wouldn't work. I'll have to think this idea through and see if something pops into my head that would make this work.
I've thought of providing a paper-editing/revision service at the local University (where I will be teaching part-time this Fall), but until school gets started and papers assigned, that's on hold. Also, the University has a free-of-charge writing center with writing tutors, so I'm not sure how much business I'd get. It would still be something I could advertise and do on the side if anyone responded. I could even do it on-line, come to think of it. I'll have to check out some stuff on creating a website, etc. Thanks for the nudge and idea!!
My dream would be to find a way to make enough money to not work outside the home, except as adjunct faculty. I know that's not likely, but a girl's gotta dream, right?
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
http://happymama58.typepad.com/my_weblog/ |
| sillyfoulks |
Posted - Jul 20 2006 : 08:45:15 AM
I agree with Gloria, when one door closes another will open. You just need to be strong and patient, and look at things in a new way to find that open door.
Patti, have you thought of tutoring. This might just help get you through this tough financial time. If the other teachers and your Principal are on your side, you could get references. And with all the media attention, it could end up helping. I think there is a very great need for quality tutors at a reseanable price. I knew a lady once who had a similiar situation with her district. She left and began tutoring, and eventually became a private educational counsler. She helped families with kids who where struggling, see the options and make decisions on their education. Many school districts make parents feel that the public school is their only option, and even then that they don't have any rights. Our oldest struggled for over 3 yrs, during 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades. Our school really gave us no help. They didn't have summer school for 1st and 2nd, they didn't have room in the school tutoring program, and refused to even hold him back during k, 1st or 2nd. It got to the point he would cry every morning not wanting to go to school, every evening we worked 2 to 3 hrs doing homework, classwork, and just working extra. I finally got so mad, and decided that we where done. He felt stupid and had lost all his self-confidence. We pulled him out, and home schooled him to 1 1/2. Best thing we ever did.
Patti, I just know, you can still help the kids. Even if you aren't in the classroom.
Elizabeth
http://livingcountrystyle.blogspot.com/ |
| Nancy Gartenman |
Posted - Jul 20 2006 : 07:33:52 AM
pATTIE
Will keep you in my thoughts, is there something I could send you or do that would help? Just let me know.
NANCY JO |
| happymama58 |
Posted - Jul 20 2006 : 07:04:18 AM
Ladies, thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. I'm still waiting for my certificate, which is stressful, and money is already getting very tight. WIthin a month, with getting 2 kids back to school (one to college), things could get pretty dicey here. I am trying so hard to not panic, to remember Who is in charge, etc., but I can admit to you ladies that I'm struggling here. Please continue to pray -- I really need your prayers.
(I'm sorry to come here and be so "down", but I'm trying really hard not to dump all this on my kids or my husband. They're stressed, too, and I'm trying to not make things worse for them. I know you ladies have stresses of your own, and I appreciate your understanding that I unload here)
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
http://happymama58.typepad.com/my_weblog/ |
| LJRphoto |
Posted - Jul 19 2006 : 09:49:55 AM
Patti, I was surfing the internet and it looks to me like what happened to you is happening to a lot of teachers in your state. Perhaps you will be a vehicle for a statewide change that will improve the education of many children.
"I would feel more optimistic about a bright future for man if he spent less time proving that he can outwit Nature and more time tasting her sweetness and respecting her seniority." -E. B. White
http://www.betweenthecities.com/blog/ljr/
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| bboopster |
Posted - Jul 14 2006 : 07:56:09 AM
God is in charge!!!! Keep praying and you will be answered. I just changed careers after 10 years in high school special ed were the school administration was after me to fire me. I ratted them out for unfair treatment of employees. I do miss my students and the academic challenge of teaching algebra, tech ed and computers but have found a job that has just as many rewards and challenges of teaching. I am now working for a company that provides assisted living programs for disabled adults. I manage a home with the adult ladies who are CD. They are a blast! The are high functioning and live in an independent apartment. I did have to take a slight decrease in pay but the benifits and financial programs they offer are incrediable. Enjoy your time off building you new home you will be soooooo glad to be able to put your wholeself into it.
Pray for our troops to come home safe and soon.
Enjoying the road to the simple life :>) |
| blueroses |
Posted - Jul 06 2006 : 09:00:09 AM
Sometimes a person unwillingly or unwittingly becomes the driving force for change. You can make a difference in the other teachers lives and maybe that was the reason for the way that things went down. It's no fun and I feel for you, but the fact that all those teachers are behind you, tells a lot about what kind of a person you are. Keep strong and once you get your certificate - go for the jugular!
"You cannot find peace...by avoiding life."
Virginia Woolfe |
| Mumof3 |
Posted - Jul 06 2006 : 06:50:56 AM
Patti
You are paving the way for improvements in other's lives and that can only be a good thing. I'm sorry that you have to suffer through all of this. You are such a hero. (Heroine!) Hang in there.
Karin |
| happymama58 |
Posted - Jul 05 2006 : 9:14:26 PM
Evidently at least a few teachers are not going to let this die. As of this afternoon, I've been contacted by 3 reporters -- 2 from different newspapers and one from the local CBS affiliate -- who have called wanting interviews. I explained that until I have my certificate in my hands I can't do anything because I just don't trust the superintendent and his assistant. Hopefully, I'll get it back within the next few days. According to all 3 who have called, they have been getting phone calls & emails from teachers in the district, and the reporters have called the callers/writers to see what they think. The television reporter told me she thinks this thing could blow wide open. My attorney said the district may wish they had kept me on -- at least that way they could somewhat control what I did or said. Once I get my certificate, they've lost that control.
I told him I would not sign a no-discussion clause, and he said that was never mentioned as a condition, and if they try to impose that condition we'll just rescind my resignation and have the hearing. I agreed. I'll keep you posted.
I'm just so glad that what is going on and how the teachers are being treated looks likely to be exposed. It's too late for my situation, but there are lots of teachers still stuck in the mess, and I feel really bad for them.
Some people search for happiness; others create it.
http://happymama58.typepad.com/my_weblog/ |
| blueroses |
Posted - Jul 05 2006 : 4:41:36 PM
Patti,
So sorry, but it is over, finally. You hold your head up and take that certificate. I know that something better is coming your way. You are a good person and your path will be revealed to you..
"You cannot find peace...by avoiding life."
Virginia Woolfe |
| Destiny~ |
Posted - Jul 05 2006 : 11:04:50 AM
Patti, I remember when you first mentioned about having a problem with the school for not attending the conference but I didn't realize it had gotten to this level.
Be careful that they don't try and get you to sign something stating that you won't discuss what happened with the media before they'll give you your certificate. I could see them trying something like that.
I hope everything works out.
"Let us, together, sow seeds for a better harvest-a harvest for hope."
Jane Goodall, Harvest for Hope |
| therusticcottage |
Posted - Jul 05 2006 : 10:30:21 AM
Patti -- I am so sorry that you've had to endure all of this. My heart hurts for you. No matter what others may say you know in your heart what a fabulous teacher you are. God does have great things in store for you -- bigger and better than ever!!! Sending you a great big hug! Kay
"But as for me & my house we will serve the LORD!" Joshua 24:15
Lotion bars, linen water & more in my online shop! http://therusticcottage.etsy.com
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| Utahfarmgirl |
Posted - Jul 05 2006 : 09:20:51 AM
Hugs from me, too!
Patricia
Come visit my Etsy store at www.chezPatricia.etsy.com
Farmgirls do it organically! |
| akcowgirl |
Posted - Jul 05 2006 : 08:59:03 AM
Many (((hugs))) Patti
I could not say it any better than the other posters. hang in there and keep your chin up.
Valerie
Yes, I live in my own little world. But that's ok they know me here.
Deja Moo: The feeling that you've heard this bull before.
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| jpbluesky |
Posted - Jul 02 2006 : 2:07:35 PM
Patti - you are a hero, girl. Believe it.
Peace |
| westernhorse51 |
Posted - Jul 02 2006 : 04:37:47 AM
Patti, I do know how hard it is when a door closes and your NOT ready. On a smaller scale, we are not getting a farm I have wanted & dreamed of my entire life. But I do believe w/ all my heart that something better will emerge, something better then I ever imagined. You sound like you have faith, KEEP IT. God does see the hole picture, we only see a glimpse of it. Try to look at the positives and go w/ your feelings about it. When you get upset or mad, its fine, feel it THEN let it go. Your strong. 
she selects wool and flax and works with eager hands Prov.31:13 |
| Aunt Jenny |
Posted - Jul 01 2006 : 10:41:01 PM
I agree..keep the faith..we love you...something good will come of this for sure! You deserve it!
Jenny in Utah
Inside me there is a skinny woman crying to get out...but I can usually shut her up with cookies
http://www.auntjennysworld.blogspot.com/ visit my little online shop at www.auntjenny.etsy.com |
| abbasgurl |
Posted - Jul 01 2006 : 10:34:31 PM
Patti, my heart just breaks that you've had to go through this! Now it's time to look to the future! I believe God has something new & wonderful in store for you! Just cling to the vine & all the rest will be added!
Blessings,
Rhonda
...and I will sing at the top of my lungs, and I will dance, even if I'm the only one! |
| CabinCreek-Kentucky |
Posted - Jul 01 2006 : 3:14:09 PM
SWEETIE PIE .. miz gloria put it perfectly .. don't think i could add another word that wouldn't be just 'hooraying' what she said!
xoxo, frannie
True Friends, Frannie
My KENTUCKY RAMBLINGS 'blog':
http://cabincreekfarm-kentucky.blogspot.com/ |
| berries |
Posted - Jul 01 2006 : 12:04:18 PM
Patti, I believe when one door closes - another one will open! Go on through it! It is for you. I don't know the situation, but there is always a reason that something happens to us. Pray about, and think positive thoughts! You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
gloria g.
Richards, TX
strawberry fields forever and ever! |
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