It had to have been God . . .: August 2008

Okay, so many of you know that I have been contemplating changing my career for years now. I began the search about 3 years ago. This spring I really got serious and applied to everything and anything I thought I would enjoy. I did a bit of research and talked to lots of people. I was determined to not go back to the classroom this year. Well, I waited and waited and heard nothing for months. July 21st came along (weeks after it is okay to break your contract) and I found another job opening in our district called the College Readiness Specialist. I thought I would give it another shot - what could I lose? About a week later I got a call about coming in for an interview and I was ecstatic but also nervous about what my principal would say. No principal wants to be looking for a teacher replacement 3 weeks before school starts!

Although I was very happy to be considered for an interview I was not very hopeful - it just seemed impossible. The day of the interview I walk into a room full of very intimidating and important people. I panicked immediately for I was expecting a preliminary interview! I was extremely nervous and thought for sure I'd blown it. As I walked out, my would be boss says "Your Principal speaks very highly of you" . . . . . oh, no, he already knew! (He and I had already talked about me looking for other jobs.)

On my drive home I almost cried - here had been my chance and I wasn't as prepared as I had wanted to be. I prayed for peace and gave it to God saying I did not want this if it wasn't his will! A few hours later I got a call from the Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education saying I was the candidate of their choice!!!!!! AAHHHHH! How could this be? Later I found out that there were 18 applicants, 6 interviews and I was the top pick for all the interviewers. Let's say that I can clearly see God's hand this. I am so amazed and humbled by his love and provision.

Well, the venture just begins. As the College Readiness Specialist I have many duties such as supporting our 6 high schools in increasing numbers of kiddos taking college prep courses and tests. There's a lot of managing and coordinating involved. I have my own office and I love it all so far! I am a bit frightened about the great responsibility I have especially because so much of this is new to me.

Oh, and my replacement was found a few days after my interview. She is really qualified and comes highly recommended so my Principal is happy. I'm also grateful to him since I know he had much influence in the District's decision.

I have no pics of my office or our dinner celebration at Perry's but I promise I'll post some soon!

The best part of this job is that I get to thoroughly enjoy my weekends and I don't have to worry about lesson plans, disciplining children or waking up at 5:00am. Yippee!

I'd like to thank Phillip's aunt Frances for inviting me to this wonderful women's conference here in Houston last weekend. I met a myriad of successful and inspiring women including Judge Aida Salinas from McAllen and Alma Riojas who served on President Reagan’s Transition Team and in the White House Personnel Office specializing in Hispanic and women’s recruitment and placement among many other wonderful accomplishments.

Needless to say I learned so much. This conference could not come at a better time since I was able to get so many leads and contacts that can help me in my new job.

Here's a pic of Aunt Frances and other ladies from her HWNT Chapter in San Antonio.