The beginning of a new journey

I finished college in May of 1987 with a degree in Early Childhood Education.  Even though Alabama was in proration, I was able to get a job teaching first grade that fall.  I called my Mom, an august teacher herself, at the end of my first week.  I regaled her with stories of my 29 first graders.  That's right - 29!  Mom encouraged me to start a journal and write down my experiences.  Unfortunately, I did not do as she suggested and have always regretted it.  (There was no such thing as a blog back then.)

By 2003 the vicissitudes of education became overwhelming.  I could not abide mainstreaming, modifying, inclusion, and intrusion so I threw in the towel.  I started job hopping but just couldn't find my niche.  It took me nine years to conclude that there is no job as rewarding as teaching school.  So, I have signed up to be a substitute teacher.  (My teaching certificate has expired).    

Do you remember the Andy Griffith show where Floyd explains to Andy, "Not just anyone can become a barber.  You have to have a license."  This rule also pertains to subbing.  To apply for a substitute teacher license you must send a $30 cashier's check payable to the State Department of Education.  Then, you undergo a background check complete with fingerprinting.  Applicants for substitute teaching must be at least 21 years old and have two years post secondary work from a university or junior college.  Your application should include three references of people who can give reasons why you would make a good substitute teacher.  Finally, you are invited to attend an orientation at your local department of education.  The entire process can take between four and twelve weeks.  

Maybe I'll be able to sub by Labor Day.  Stay tuned as I document my journey ...