Teaching in VA? (Hampton, Lynchburg, Suffolk: loans, neighborhood, magnet schools)

[mf_colon]

Hello all,

I am thinking of making a move to VA in the next few years and wanted to ask a question about what the teaching outlook is in VA? I am going into my 4th year of teaching in NYC. I currently have my Masters in Special Education.

I would be moving with my hubby and 2 kids. So a good neighborhood is important as well.

Any input or opinions welcome.

[Green Irish Eyes]

In general, most of the available jobs are in Northern Virginia, but the cost of living will be relatively high there. Budget cuts have led to teachers being RIF'd in the rest of the state, even for teachers in high-need areas such as Special Ed.

If you haven't yet signed up at Teachers-Teachers, you should do so. I believe that most VA districts post openings there, and it'll give you an idea of where the jobs are located.

Best of luck to you!

[mf_colon]

I actually am registered at that site, its where I got the listing of jobs in the VA area. They are specifically hiring in places such as Fairfax, Lynchburg, Stafford and Suffolk.

Can you tell me about the above towns?

Thanks for the info!

[choff5]

Originally Posted by mf_colon

I actually am registered at that site, its where I got the listing of jobs in the VA area. They are specifically hiring in places such as Fairfax, Lynchburg, Stafford and Suffolk.

Can you tell me about the above towns?

Thanks for the info!

Fairfax and Stafford are counties. Fairfax Public Schools is about the 12th largest system in the US, around 135 elementary schools, or something like that. Having special education certification is valuable and will help you get a job, but the cost of living is high here. If you want more information, look at the website, www.fcps.edu and go under employee incentives and you can see there is assistance on loans, moving expenses, etc. Not a lot but still, every little bit helps. Stafford, I'm not familiar with but you can do the same I'm sure with their website. Also, for those two, to learn more about living there, post under the Northern Virginia forum.

Best of luck!

[froggin4colorado]

Don't go to Williamsburg, VA to teach. I have never met so many unhappy teachers there-especially sped. Those teachers cry on each other's shoulders all the time due to the unjustice that occurs to the kids and families. From what I understand, it is common in the Hampton area but I can't say for certain because I haven't been involved in every district.

[CaliTerp07]

Fairfax county is great. The teachers I've observed have been wonderful, the mentoring programs in place for new teachers are awesome, and the programs in place far exceed anything I ever had as a child (elementary band classes, AP tests paid for, buses for all kids, magnet schools, etc).

It is definitely expensive, but if your spouse is working full time too it's doable. (Obviously...otherwise there wouldn't be teachers here).