You'd Better Sit Down....

So blogs can be used for a variety of reasons - usually to keep in touch, to use as a sort of journal, or to express one's views on issues.  As a teacher, I have to be very careful what I post, because no matter how secure I keep this blog, this is the internet and things can get out, become misinterpreted, offend people, seem unprofessional, and I can loose my job.  So I've kept quiet for the past 3 months while some things went on at school. (Even though I REALLY could've used a place to vent)  A very long story short:  it was budget season.  My position wasn't on the line...then it was, but before it was, our district found money from the state...but we were told that jobs that were on the line this year will definitely be on the line next year...which means my position is on the line next year.  While I personally would be safe because there was a music teacher hired after me, I wouldn't know what I would be teaching.  So...during all of this uncertainty, I applied for a middle school music position at Cape Elizabeth.  Over 50 people applied...5 were interviewed.  I interviewed on a Friday, and at 9:00am the following Monday they called and offered me the job.  YIPPEE!!! 
This is a fantastic opportunity for me, as I will be teaching general music to grades 5 - 8 (instead of just grade 6) and there is more time in the schedule for chorus.  The down side is that the 5th & 6th grade chorus meets before school, but there is a stipend.  The music budget is much bigger, which is nice, as well.  I really, REALLY like that music is taken by all grade levels - it shows a real understanding and appreciation for the benefits and importance of music in a child's complete education.  There is also a chance that this could become a HS position in a few years, because the HS choral program is very weak, and they want to build that as well.  So....YEAH!!!

So, now I'm starting Grad School in the fall....starting a new job in the fall...and, oh yeah, I'm the chair person for District I for Maine Music Educator's Association. What else can we throw in there???

Now I'm just looking for an apartment.  Dad's last day is June 15, so he'll move down permanantly after that.  There's no real rush, other than I'd like to not live with my parents, and my parents would love to have their house to themselves...

So it has become clear, I am officially entering yet ANOTHER new phase of my life.  Bring it :)