Morgan Spurlock, You Are a Genious

I stumbled upon the mockumentary CHALK tonight after first thinking it was going to be some cheesy first-year teacher story. In fact, for the first hour I did think it was one of those things. Little things throughout the movie kept telling me that this can't be real. But my experience with teaching and people in schools, both students and adults, told me it could be. I told my roommate at the end that it was a fantastic documentary after I had finished watching it. I feel a little stupid, and a little duped, but it's only because CHALK hits a little TOO close to home to be comfortable. Everything you aren't supposed to say out loud in school, to your administration, to your parents, to your students, this one says it. And at first I thought it was honest. I've thought almost every issue that arose during the film. Yes, anyone that has ever tried their hand at teaching or wants to should see this. You won't be disappointed.

It's Official at Work: They Know (and I Feel a Little more Free Now)

I sent the following to the staff today:

April 13, 2010

Dear {School Name} Staff:

I love and respect you all. You are seriously one of the best school staffs and group of co-workers I have ever worked with--so talented, professional, (and fun!)--all of you. You took me in as if I were a part of your family when I was new to the state. I must also say that I am very thankful for my time at {school name}. I have allowed myself to grow professionally and personally in ways I never would have if I hadn't have been placed here as an AmeriCorps tutor just two short years ago. Thank you for being such a supportive, caring group of individuals.

That said, I want to say that my employment at {school name} and {school district} is coming to a close. I was offered an opportunity to teach English in Seoul, South Korea and after great debate, have decided to accept. I have been looking forward to teaching English abroad for quite some time now. This is the time. It's now or never. My assignment begins May 31, 2010. I am therefore giving my two weeks' notice starting today. In order for me to prepare for my assignment overseas, I am requesting that my last day at {school name} be Friday, April 30, 2010.

This is a new adventure and chapter in my life. Of course I am thrilled. I want to keep in touch with so many of you and share my journey. Thank you for understanding my need to branch out and "spread my wings." I will miss you and the students dearly.

Yours in Service,

Recycled Art Girl
recycledartguru@gmail.com

Do they make...

an anxious girl's guide to attaining an E2 Visa?


Can I write this someday? I should. Yikes.

My thoughts exactly:

I knew it!

Your result for The Commonly Confused Words Test...

English Genius

You scored 100% Beginner, 100% Intermediate, 93% Advanced, and 80% Expert!

You did so extremely well, even I can't find a word to describe your excellence! You have the uncommon intelligence necessary to understand things that most people don't. You have an extensive vocabulary, and you're not afraid to use it properly! Way to go!

Thank you so much for taking my test. I hope you enjoyed it!

For the complete Answer Key, visit my blog: http://shortredhead78.blogspot.com/.

Take The Commonly Confused Words Test at OkCupid

Technology hates me

In a few days, I will be the owner of a WebCam, short for World Wide Web Camera. Since when did I need a camera attached to my computer, one might ask? Since I started applying for teaching jobs overseas, that's when. The thought of using a camera while talking to someone via Skype kind of freaks me out, but I guess I will have to get used to it. I will practice tons and be super good at it in oh, about 500 or so interviews. Now if only I can figure out how to use it.

Random Thoughts of the Day!

1. I have dental insurance!
2. I need a new job.
3. I am too exhausted at the end of my day of working my old job to be effective in looking for a new one.
4. I hate my job. (See number 3.)
5. Anyone that has more than a perky existence shouldn't be allowed to complain about lack of jobs.
6. I am an introvert in an extrovert's field. (See number 5).
7. I may be searching for a new field soon.
8. I need to take organic chemistry to get into new field.
9. I want to go overseas and I don't want to pay for it.
10. I may sound whiny now, but don't say anything. I am perfectly aware of my ego-centrism in this post.