Saturday, August 16, 2008

FAQ

It's been how long since I last updated? Well, you know the process of moving in, boxes, air mattress, lack of internet. It's all a process.

I still don't have placement yet. Yes, I technically don't have a job. I'm going to go ahead and explain everything right here because everyone, EVERYONE, wants to know why I've been accepted to Teach for America but still don't have a school yet. So without further ado, here goes:

Chicago has a decentralized public school system, one of the few totally decentralized districts in the country. What this means is, is that in typical Teach for America (TFA from here on out) regions, the districts are centralized so there is one person that oversees all the vacancies in the district. This person tells TFA that there are X number of openings in the district. TFA then puts X people in these vacancies. In Chicago, there is a person who oversees the district, but it is up to the individual schools to choose which teachers they want for their positions. As such, the schools usually do not know what positions they have open until, typically, right before school starts (September 2nd). So what TFA is now doing is trying to organize the 50 or 60 kids without jobs on individual interviews with principals which, I'm assuming, is an arduous, time consuming task. I'm placing a lot of faith in them that they will get me on an interview and hired before school starts.

Frequently asked questions:
Are you guaranteed placement?
-Yes.

Are you getting paid?
-Not at the moment, but I am guaranteed a check as soon as everyone else gets a check.

Man, does that suck?
-Yes, a lot.

Can you just go find schools on your own?
-Not really. Only certain schools qualify to have a TFA person at it and I don't really know what they are.

Are you nervous, anxious?
-Extremely.

Do you at least know what grade/subject you're teaching?
-No. It could be anything from K-8 and any subject. It depends on the vacancies.

What are you doing with all your time?
-Exploring the city. It's not as fun as it sounds since all I really have on my mind is my lack of a job.

I hope this answers some of the burning questions you might have. I've been put through an emotional wringer throughout this process and talking about placement has been difficult. I hope to have some more positive news soon.

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