Should I take this job as a Preschool Teacher?

Question

I taught at this school before, but quit because my son had an illness. I asked the Director to hold my job and let me take a leave of absence, but she said no. My job went to a less qualified teacher, who still has it. Now I am ready to go back. There is a possible opening for teaching in a wonderful classroom at the same school I was at before. I would like that job very much. However, while I was gone, one of the teachers aides got her AA degree at a college. The staff thinks that the job opening should go to her, because she went back to school. She is quiet and has trouble with decisions and classroom control. The director likes me because I am a strong leader and work hard. If I took the job, the other teachers may see me as taking the job from the girl who went back to school. I know how it feels to loose a teaching position, and don't want to do that to someone else. Would you take the job?

Answer 1

If you are offered the job, then yes, take it. Life is never fair, and even though the other teacher went back to school that doesn't mean she is as qualified as you. The most important thing is the children you are teaching and which teacher is best for them. You cannot worry about what others think when it comes to a job. This is your life and you have to do what is best for you. The teachers that do not agree with this decision will get over it in time.

Answer 2

Honestly, you have your heart in the right place, but one thing is certain when trying to advance in your career.  You can't be concerned with other people's lives and careers, because after all, it is YOUR career.  They would not do the same for you if they were in your shoes. This doesn't mean you need to backstab people, but you need to take care of yourself and your needs, especially if you are the more qualified individual.

Answer 3

ok so i have no idea what it is to go trought school and be all professional but i worked as a Teachers aide for a preschool and i LOVED IT....the kids are great...it hardly felt like work for me...so i totally recommend it...you will love it!

Answer 4

You only left your job due to circumstances beyond your control.  You now have the opportunity to go back to work and be good at what you do.  There is no reason you should back down from a position that will bring you fullfillment.  You deserve it.  Good luck to you.  How is your son doing?  I hope everything is well.  

Answer 5

you have to do what is right for you and your family.  It is admirable that you would look out for the other teacher and not want to take her position, but it's a dog-eat-dog world out there.  If you continue to always look out for the other guy, you'll get pushed aside and walked on.

Answer 6

There is a difference between what happened to you and the situation that concerns you now.  Before, you had a job and left.  So, it was given away.  The teachers aide you described has never had this job.

As another person said, the director will make the ultimate decision.  You cannot be held accountable for the decision.  But, at the same time, there are some things that you can do to make life simpler for all.

One thing that leaps to mind is to help the other person learn some of the skills that got you the job (if you get it).  This will make them a better candidate the next time an opening occurs.

Keep the workplace atmosphere positive for all.  You are colleagues.  You all need to act that way.  Working together, you all become better and stronger.

Would I take it?  Under the conditions I described, I would.

Answer 7

Yes, it's not your fault the director likes you because you are a better overall teacher. When I was doing my student teaching their was a assistant that just had to take PRAXIS. However, I got the job. You should go for it or you will regret it.

Answer 8

As in other positions, the director holds the final say. It's her decision. She must weigh the other person's education in field, I presume, against your experience and skills. If it were offered to me, yes, I'd take it. If anyone has any issues with it, they should take it up with the director. She is the one with the power to hire and fire. She has the right to make any decision she chooses.

If you DO get the position, I guarantee you that the staff will settle down about it after awhile. It'll soon be "old news," and something else will come along to grab their attention and cause a ruckus. They'll dive in head first, believe me.  

Answer 9

Well if they give the job to you then its because you deserve it! You shouldnt feel bad about that. That woman can find a job at some other school.  

Answer 10

h**l yes take it who cares don't worry about what other people think do what you want to do and what makes you happy!

Answer 11

Don't worry about her, there is a reason your getting another chance But be careful preschool is pretty rough for the teachers.