Another Day, Another Test

I know I haven't posted in a while, but things have been crazy around here as I prepare to take yet another standardized "teacher" test. How many of these do I need to take? Tomorrow I will take a second portion of the Georgia High School English exam (GACE II).

I think that I am going to make friends with the test givers as I set out to take every test possible. I think that I should go back every chance they offer the test (only 4-5 times per year) to take different tests like Social Studies, Special Education, Physical Education and what ever else I think I may be able to pass. I hope that in doing so, I'll have a better chance to get hired on full-time.

The more tests I take and pass, the more areas I'll be certified to teach in. Say a prayer that tomorrow's test goes well. The results don't come back for a solid month. That's torture.

It's Gettin' Hairy

I never thought I'd see the day when teachers are being laid off. Clayton County and Fayette County are both laying off 150 teachers (or furloughing them) respectively for the upcoming school year. The state's largest district, Gwinnett County (where my hubby attended) is cutting part-time and many parapro positions.

Walton County (where we live) is seeing a $34 million budget shortfall for the upcoming school year and even though they are opening a new high school, they are hoping to cut the number of teachers they'll need by increasing class size. Did I mention that the classroom in which I've been observing has 31 students in first period? There aren't enough desks for everyone to actually sit down.

Pray that there are actual full-time openings available for the many teachers and first-time teachers in the fall.

Ain't too Proud to Beg

Okay, so I really want to continue on and get my Specialist and Ph.D. But the question is, how on earth will I pay for it?

I didn't realize how fortunate I was to have my undergraduate degree paid for by the HOPE Scholarship until I paid for my own Master's degree. It hurts! I can't imagine paying another $30,000+ for additional degrees. So here's my plan. . . . .


I have emailed Ellen Degeneres (yes the TV talkshow host/comedian) and asked for her help. I don't think it's too crazy of a request! Ha. I told her that I would be happy to set up a Web cam or Skype in and dance, sing or do whatever she requests of me to earn my keep/degree. How funny would that be?

You never know, she may just call me and take me up on my offer! Wouldn't that be wonderful!

Snow Pics, Part 2

Here are a few new pictures of the snow we received yesterday. We had a blast! My neighbors kids came over to play (they think I am their age I believe) and they built me a snowman.

It's Snowing!

Yeah! We are finally seeing some snow in the South! Loganville hasn't seen much snow yet, but it is still coming down. I'm a little disappointed that my parent's weren't able to join us for lunch today, but we all agreed that they shouldn't make the 65-mile trip with this weather. Besides, they wanted to stay home and play in it too!

Here are a few pics of our house and yard as the snow is beginning to fall. (Oh and one of me playing in the snow and all bundled up!) . . .