Being A Professional Sucks

So, if you haven't heard it before, being a professional, well, it sucks.   After teaching all day, I still only get 2/3rds of the pay of an average teacher, because I'm not contracted.  My responsibilities are the same as any other contracted teacher and therefore the expectations are also just the same.  I'm not really saying that to complain.  It's just a small part of the greater concept I have been pondering.

I love my job.  But I make next to no money.

I've considered becoming Arkansas's version of Jenna Marbles.  I could go get my master's degree, become a stripper, and get paid megabucks to post stupid videos on YouTube.   But then I remember, I'm a "professional".  Not to mention, I'm too lazy at the end of my school day to do any of that make up and partying business.

Job Hunting

Job hunting is a a grueling experience.  Sometimes hopeful and sometimes discouraging, going on the job hunt is always tiring.  Since my current teaching position is only until the end of this month, and my summer employment ends August 9th, I am on the hunt for a new teaching position.

So, yesterday, I made sure I had plenty of copies of my resume and cover letters, along with my newest Praxis scores and my final transcript.  Unfortunately my printer ran out of black ink half way through what I wanted to print, but I thought I could stop half way through my planned loop of schools and print more at my parents' house.

I started out by going to Hoxie, then to Walnut Ridge.  Lawrence County was the farthest out, and so I went there first.  Then, I drove to Paragould and went to Greene County Tech and Paragould.  The Lawrence County schools had nothing particularly hopeful to say, although everyone was incredibly nice and giving of their time.  I did hear some hopeful news at PJHS, so maybe something could come of that.  Then, I stopped by Brookland on my way to Trumann.  It took a while to find the new high school in Trumann, but that helped me to wind up at the Junior High school.  The vice principal there was very nice and directed me to where I needed to go as well as asking me a few standard interview questions.  Finally, I went by Harrisburg.  They were planning their graduation for 5 pm, so I didn't get much accomplished there, but I'm glad I stopped by.  

Today I wrote thank you notes to all of the secretaries and principals and superintendents that met with me.  Nothing will come of that, but I do believe that thanking those that met with me is a necessary step in the application and job hunt process.  It is a nice reminder a couple of days later of my visit and also shows professionalism and a desire to finish what I start.  

I am trying my hardest not to feel desperate.  I'm sure that something will open up when I am ready for it and when the district is ready for me.  I do not believe in coincidences.  If no teaching position opens up, then I will continue to substitute and perhaps start my master's degree.

My Addiction to Goodwill

So, I must admit my addiction to Goodwill.  My name is Katie and I am addicted to Goodwill.  I went again today. Today I made it out of the store with a peach sheer top by Anna, a homemade navy pencil skirt, a homemade green,teal, and navy patterned skirt, red dress pants by CSC, a brown cinched-neck top from Cato's a pair of shoes that look like they walked out of Michael Jackson's closet.  Oh, and I forgot the 80s vintage top, shoulderpads and all.  Why couldn't I leave that one alone?  No idea.  But now it has a home in my closet.

These might be the highlight of my week... Honestly.

This cardigan?  Goodwill.  

This top?  Goodwill.  Mustache not included.

Ugly Christmas Sweater?  You guessed it.  Goodwill.

 I love thrifted clothes.  There's no bigger and better place to find vintage clothing than Goodwill.  I love it because I can buy two armloads full of clothes and books and still not spend more than 20 dollars.  Goodwill supports my inner shopaholic and my wallet is grateful. 

A Little About Me

My name is Katherine Cole and I have always been a writer.  I cannot remember a time when I was not jotting down notes, creating lists, or making my own characters and outrageous plots.  I have too many interests to name and too many hobbies to master.  To put it simply, my passion is teaching.  All of my hobbies and interests come together in teaching.  Currently, I teach sixth grade science at a local middle school.  My classroom is high in religious, ethnic, and social diversity.  I have learned so much from my students and perhaps I will share some of that here.  I am currently dating an amazing man who serves on a local sheriff's department.  Don't ask me how I managed to snag such a handsome man, because I honestly have no idea.  Recently I've become obsessed with redoing my wardrobe and decorating my apartment.  It's simply amazing to finally be out on my own and building my own career.  I also scrapbook nearly all major life events and like to take time to reflect and worship.  I'm sure you'll see several religious topics and posts on here.   I am not afraid to offend.  I am far from perfect, but I am passionate about the topics in which I believe.  I suppose the standard disclaimer of, "if you can't handle it, don't read it" applies here.   No topic is off limits with me.  I take all comments, suggestions, and criticisms, so feel free to contact me at any time with  anything you think I should know.   Now, with all of that said, I hope you enjoy reading my blog!