Friday, February 26, 2010

First Month

I love my new temporary position as elementary band teacher. The old band teacher said he will be returning in January as planned but that he has put in his retirement papers. The problem is his job is part-time in my district and part-time in another district. I need a full time status to keep my tenure. I have been working for 10 years in my district and I really feel at home here. I need to convince the superintendent to make the band position full time. I have some ideas but if anyone has any ideas to add, please feel free to blog me.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

First Teaching Job

My name is Thomas and I am an elementary general music teacher in Manchester Township, NJ. I have been teaching in this district for 10 years.

I landed my first teaching job by applying to every job opening that I could find. I looked in newspapers and on line. I interviewed at at least 6 places before I found the right fit.

I landed my first teaching job because I possess good qualities. I am energetic and enthusiastic. The children love music because of my upbeat personality. If I am having fun, they will have fun and want to learn music on their own.

Finding a teaching job can be hard but here is some advice to make it easier. Be persistent. Don't be afraid to travel. Uproot from where you live if you have to. Discover a different part of your state or other state.

This post is part of the "Teaching Jobs Portal: How to Land a Teacher Job". What was your journey to become a teacher? If you would like to share your experience with other aspiring teachers, please use this post for more information.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Concert Time

The seniors were delighted as we visited their tree display and played some holiday music. It is amazing what the kids are doing after 3 months of instruction, only 1 day a week. Each school got a taste of how much fun it could be playing an instrument as we played our music for them at concerts and tree decorating ceremonies. Staff and parents were delighted to see the children so excited!

Sunday, September 6, 2009

New Position Band

Starting the 2009 school year, I will be filling in for the band teacher who unfortunately had a heart attack. My music job will bw filled by a substitute. Until January I will be the band teache rfor 3 elementary schools. I am excited to start.

Saturday, February 14, 2009

Good Job

I must have really done a good job. Unfortunately, the children got so used to my way of teaching that they are having a hard time with the old music teacher. Many parents have been e-mailing me and writing letters to me expressing their concerns and disappointment. Many children have quit. I hope the parents and children express the same concern when I apply for the band job in September. I hope I can convince the district to make the band position full-time.

Sunday, January 4, 2009

Back to The Classroom

Although I like my job, I feel like everyone needs a change. The change I had as band teacher since September was wonderful. I will miss the kids I taught and I hope they will love music the way I do. Good luck to all my band students.