And Then There Was One

In the spring of the last school year, it was not looking likely that I would be able to continue in my current district working as an ESL teacher, due to budgetary constraints. (I was assured repeatedly that it was not due to performance at all.)  I am bilingual in English/Spanish, have elementary teaching certification, and among other things, ESL certification.  It was a shock.

I did not let the disturbing news get me down. Instead I informed my closest family and friends and set out to apply elsewhere.  I was sad, surprised, confused, yet eager to find what my next step would be.

As of last spring, there were three ESOL teachers for our district.  Due to family needs and wants, the other two teachers have ended up resigning from the district.  I was offered a contract and quickly signed my "John Hancock".

I recently learned that neither of the other positions will be filled at the present time.  So the irony is, that I was the one who thought she would be jobless, at least by our district in the spring, but as fall approaches, I will have sole leadership of our ESL program!

I would have never imagined that this chapter in my ESL life would have been written this way!

I know that there are others in my situation throughout the United States who must also be the "Lone Ranger" for their district, so I again will not allow myself to be discouraged.

I will now be working with Kindergarten through High School students. I am sure I will learn much this year, mess up, try again, and be even more prepared next year.  I am very grateful for a job. I am thankful that I am able to work in my particular district for so many reasons.

I will definitely be seeking out resources, advice, and ideas from my Personal Learning Network (PLN).  So here's my start....what resources would you say have been most helpful to you, especially for the K-2nd and High School levels? I am all ears!!!