Showtime Joe 2.0
Active Member
My doctorate is in history, not education, so, no, I've never been certified as a Texas teacher. Oddly enough, with the proliferation in dual-credit classes, I wind up teaching in public high schools every semester anyway, in addition to teaching at community college campuses. Last semester I taught at a Tarrant County College campus in Fort Worth, a Dallas College campus in Mesquite, and a public high school in Dallas. This upcoming semester, I'll be teaching at those same locations except I'll be at the Dallas College campus in Farmer's Branch as opposed to Mesquite. It's a lot of driving, four days a week. But, yes, I should enter an alternative certification program to increase my chances of landing a full-time public-school job.Hey. Just wanted to wish you luck.
Your story sounds similar to mine. One school where I did most of my adjunct teaching shut down the other month, and I have been looking as well. Really been weighing in on whether to get more teaching or go back to design or photography. Unfortunately those industries really help if you have the contacts and and current portfolios.
Did you get your state teaching certificate for K-12 when you got your PhD?
I also tried dumbing down my resume for some retail work, but I have no retail experience, so no bites. I did have a friend who did the uber for a while to fill in some work gaps. I believe the work does require a vehicle with a backseat and 4 doors (ruled me out). He actually enjoyed it for a period.
Don't know if you have looked into it (and probably not much during holidays) but I see a lot of people doing tutoring of high school and middle school kids. Maybe some opportunities there for those that need to catch up or get ahead before the next semester. Especially around some of the wealthier private schools.
At least you have 4 days of teaching in mid-January to look forward to.
Add: Also consider looking in other places if possible. Maybe a full time spot to replace the few adjunct classes opens up. I know I am now going to expand my search nationally and maybe beyond that.
I'm always applying for full-time teaching jobs but I've been told on the sly that my age is probably what's holding me back at this point from getting hired. I'm settled on remaining in the Metroplex at this stage in my life, but I wish you well on conducting a nationwide search. I'm sure that'll enhance your job opportunities immensely! Good luck to you!