I need to decide...

[thedaveytrain]

as most of you know, I am finishing up my second year teaching high school and it's time to begin to look toward 2008-2009. My principal has asked me to consider taking over the role of activities director, which while it is an increase in pay and essentially a promotion, would mean leaving the classroom and working as a teacher on special

Comments

[fatbearman]

Hmmmm. This is a very interesting position you're in. On one hand, as you say, it is a promotion but it would require you leaving the classroom. I know you're happy as a teacher, so I think I'd tell the principal that although you are honored that he considered you for the position, your passion really is in teaching and since you have only been doing it for two years now, you'd like to have a little more time behind the lectern before you could even imagine doing something else. Whatever decision you make Dave, I, for one, am cheering you on.

[ibubtoo]

Within each of our industries, there are certain "opportunities" that can indeed change the trajectory of your career. I'd quietly seek counsel from some of your teacher colleagues, perhaps those not at your school. If TOSA is seen as a potential negative that might affect your chances for continued teaching potentials and would be a noose on your resume, think about it more.

If, on the other hand, it's an opportunity that can either enhance or just hold harmless your career...then I say all aboard! You won't lose touch with kids, you've negotiated making the yearbook a class and you might have the opportunity to interact with them on a new level.

Just the offer is quite the compliment from the principal...especially since you've been teaching for only 2 years.

Whatever your decision, congratulations on having the choice! You've earned it!

[thedaveytrain]

thank you, that means a lot coming from you!

[mrpibearian]

I can tell you that up here, they love to see varied experiences on resumes. It shows flexibility at the very least, but also a broader more varied interest in all the different sides of teaching.

Kudos either way!