molly moriarty

Early Retirement--Scary!!

Considering early retirement is scary!

I have taught public school orchestra and strings for 31 years counting this one. This is the year that I can take eary retirement. I am so conflicted about this.
First, I LOVE the kids. But with the no child left behind stuff it seems like all I do more and more is reports, reports, reports. Our dept. even has to teach math and english skills once a month too. I am not a math or english teacher, and these extra "out" of my curriculum end up taking away a whole rehearsal period. To say it is frustrating is an understatement.

But, on the other hand, if I do retire from public school teaching, there are so many other opportunities out there to pursue. Private teaching, going to another , maybe smaller district, working at the Humane Society, it is mind boggeling (hope I spelled that right). I have my list of why to stay on one side, and why to go on another. Sadly, the why to go side has grown since the end of the school year last year. I'm getting tired of feeling like a chicken with my head cut off---yet, there are the kids. They have a way of making it all ok most days. I really enjoy them, and they are all so cool. ARRGH! I am so conflicted.

And what makes this even more difficult is that I have to sign the papers, to go or not, by the first of March. I don't even get until the end of the year.

Anyone else out there having, or have had the same experience? I think I need some advice from some of you all, to help me put everything into perspective. Comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks folks!

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