Looking for a gig in education? Do your homework! Learn about the staff, the mission, and the vibe of the community. Most crucially, check out your administrator. Hit up LinkedIn, Google, Indeed—give 'em a good ol' stalk. When you score an interview, remember, you're not just selling yourself for the job; you're sizing up the leaders, colleagues, and students. If it feels like a bad fit, scram. Even if you're desperate. Desperation breeds misery faster than a poorly watered houseplant.
I once had an administrator who told me men shouldn't teach elementary because we lack the nurturing touch—apparently, we're better off wrangling teenagers. Total nonsense, right? Admin can make or break you. They pick favorites, lean on others for input, and sometimes manage like they're running a cutthroat business where kids are just numbers.
Then there are the super catty, total bitches. I worked for one principal who, whenever I was in her office with the assistant principal, would gossip about the teachers and plot their firings like they were characters in a reality show. No development, no coaching—just harsh critiques. That stuff needs a complete 180.
The best admin I ever had worked at three schools with me over a decade. She bagged Principal of the Year twice. Our Title 1 rocketed from "meh" to "wow" because of her vision and the trust she put in her team. She aced observations—every one had a "what rocked" and "where to grow." That's how it should be! Always learning, right?
Again, check out your admin. Do they offer growth? A good one's a coach, mentor, and thought partner—a beacon in the wilderness of education, not a judge in a talent show.