From Teacher to Administrator

In February, I found out that I was one step closer to my ultimate career goal. I got accepted to becoming an elementary school assistant principal in the Bronx. I was elated. Then I began to think (typical type A behavior). I'll explain the back story, then circle back to the thoughts.

How Did this Happen?

Leaving the Bronx was a crucial decision for me to make. Professionally, there were some significant challenges and I was starting to lose faith in my ability to grow and be developed. So I explored options but vowed that lateral movement was not ideal. So I went to Jersey and was promised that my career goals would be factored into my development. It actually was. I was repeatedly asked about my trajectory in education and set goals directly connected to skills I would need. However, I was skeptical. I applied to Building Excellent Schools to explore founding a school of my own. My friends encouraged me to apply. I surprised myself at how well I did. I knew that I wanted to be a school leader and for a minute I thought it was going to happen. I made it to the final round and was denied. I took it as a sign that God meant for me to be in Jersey but it gave me a lot of satisfaction that I was able to handle that process and make it so far.
Time progresses and I find my way in Jersey. Literally the happiest I have been in my career. I was content. For the first time, I wasn't shopping my resume out just because. Then, I received a message on LinkedIn (admittedly I have never been into the site but randomly check it).  The message invited me to apply for the position I have now. Awhile ago, I applied to this same position and was completely ignored. So if you know me, you know I was side eying the hell out this email. My response back was not ideal but real. I informed the lady that I had applied to the position before and was completely ignored. She asked me to apply and send her a message when it was complete. I interviewed for three hours. I felt that I was slaying until the final interview. When I tell you that recruiter came for my entire life! I kept composure and fought through but I didn't leave feeling as confident as I usually do. About a week later, I got the position!


Well What Now?

I've spent a lot of time being happy about this switch. However, the job starts tomorrow. Even responding that I'm an assistant principal instead of a teacher is weird. I'm nervous. I'm used to being good at what I do and being confident in that fact. The unknown scares me and leading people while experiencing these feelings is slightly offsetting. I know its beginning jitters. I have three weeks of intensive training before teacher in service begins. I'll be fine. I'll let you know how it goes.