Jobs? Big Island Elementary School Teachers (Hilo, Waimea: how much, best schools, moving to)

[WASailorGirl]

I would love to hear from some elementary teachers (or from someone who knows one) about the best schools to work in from the area North of Hilo to Waimea.

I'm currently a 4th grade teacher in the Pacific Northwest and hope to relocate to the Big Island this summer. My background is in Special Education and as a Reading Specialist at the elementary level. I'm working in a public school now, but prefer private or charter schools. I have an undergraduate degree in SPED, and a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Language and Literacy.

Do you recommend interviewing for the DOE on the mainland? (They have interviews in Seattle in April). Or, do you recommend sending letters of interest and a resume to principals and head masters of private schools? I would appreciate any advice or experience you can pass on.

Thank you in advance for your help!

Beth

[cynmkolohe]

Aloha Beth,

I've commented often about teaching on the Big Island in previous posts...you can click on my screen name at the top to search for relevant posts if you'd like. I'm in a bit of a hurry right now, but will be happy to answer any questions I can as you get into the process. I can possibly connect you to a few resources if the previous posts don't answer some of your questions.

If I was moving to the Big Island to teach knowing what I know now, I would be considering the schools in Waimea or in the nearby areas.

With aloha,

Cynthia

[Paniolo Cowgirl]

Hawaii Prep. Acad. is just past Waimea. But please consider teaching in the public schools. The public schools in HI need good teachers.

[IntoTheMystic]

Originally Posted by Paniolo Cowgirl

Hawaii Prep. Acad. is just past Waimea. But please consider teaching in the public schools. The public schools in HI need good teachers.

Hawaii Prep!!!

The public schools do need good teachers, but the DOE is a nightmare to work for.

[WASailorGirl]

Originally Posted by IntoTheMystic

Hawaii Prep!!!

The public schools do need good teachers, but the DOE is a nightmare to work for.

Will you elaborate on "nightmare?" It's been my experience, the public schools aren't good to work for in most places. I've taught in two states, and haven't been happy teaching in public schools. How much worse can Hawaii be than other places? Just curious.

I've had more job satisfaction teaching in private schools.