[mrjason]

Yeah, I know, I know, I've read some of the horror stories about working for the district, but the reality is that there are no jobs here in California (thanks, Arnold), and I think a change may do me good. I have two years of contracted teaching experience, a clear teaching credential, a masters degree in education, and I just really miss being in the classroom. I still think I can make a difference, so why not give it a go?!
I'm a single guy in my late thirties who has lived the last 20 years in California, after growing up in Kansas City, Mo. I see a move to Nevada as something of an adventure and am ready and willing to give it a try. I have enjoyed reading the numerous posts about housing, traffic, weather and the crime, but I think I need to examine it for myself, which is why I'm coming over soon to check things out for myself.

Any words of encouragement are appreciated. Thank you, Jason

[Buzz123]

Originally Posted by mrjason

Yeah, I know, I know, I've read some of the horror stories about working for the district, but the reality is that there are no jobs here in California (thanks, Arnold), and I think a change may do me good. I have two years of contracted teaching experience, a clear teaching credential, a masters degree in education, and I just really miss being in the classroom. I still think I can make a difference, so why not give it a go?!
I'm a single guy in my late thirties who has lived the last 20 years in California, after growing up in Kansas City, Mo. I see a move to Nevada as something of an adventure and am ready and willing to give it a try. I have enjoyed reading the numerous posts about housing, traffic, weather and the crime, but I think I need to examine it for myself, which is why I'm coming over soon to check things out for myself.

Any words of encouragement are appreciated. Thank you, Jason

None of the "horror stories" are true and you'll love it here. There is no better place to live. My daughter has taught in the CCSD for over 20 years and she loves her job. She's been in Las Vegas since she was 4 years old and she really likes the growth. Not many other places in this country has experienced having over 1½ million new people in just 20 years, but Las Vegas has taken it in stride. We have always been a city of many conveniences, but the one thing nearly overwhelming growth has done is to give us even more of the conveniences that make life exciting and fun. You hear a lot negative stories because people don't find it interesting to tell positive stories. But the negatives are no different than they are any place else, and probably not as bad as most places.

[5kingsinvegas]

My only word of caution to you is that it may be a little more difficult for you to find a teaching job with a masters degree. You will find one, it just might take a little longer, they will have to pay you more money, after all!!!

[mrjason]

I appreciate the words of encouragement and caution. I've heard that districts are less willing to hire someone with a master's degree but always thought that was more of a myth. I mean you don't jump up that much on the pay scale, and they should consider it a good thing, as it makes you more effective in the classroom, no?

Well, we shall see. I'm planning on heading over to check things out, i.e., the area, apartments, people, etc.

I appreciate this forum for all the info provided. You gotta love the Internet.

Thanks!

[WOHR]

Great to have you. What grade levels do you teach? If you ever need a sub a teach k-5.

[photobuff42]

I would caution you to check on your certification before you accept a position. They don't have reciprocity here and you wind up taking more classes on top of your master's degree. Don't let 'em do it to you!

[Buzz123]

Originally Posted by mrjason

I appreciate the words of encouragement and caution. I've heard that districts are less willing to hire someone with a master's degree but always thought that was more of a myth. I mean you don't jump up that much on the pay scale, and they should consider it a good thing, as it makes you more effective in the classroom, no?

Well, we shall see. I'm planning on heading over to check things out, i.e., the area, apartments, people, etc.

I appreciate this forum for all the info provided. You gotta love the Internet.

Thanks!

I don't know about new hires, but most of the teachers I know in Las Vegas have masters degrees and I get the idea that they expect you to get one at some point in your career.

[cjski21]

Let me know how it goes. I am currently considering giving up law enforcement to teach. I am working on my credentials right now. Well, I have an appointment to see an advisor tomorrow. I will be switching from law to sociology. I see teaching as a great opportunity to make a difference.

[Buzz123]

Originally Posted by cjski21

Let me know how it goes. I am currently considering giving up law enforcement to teach. I am working on my credentials right now. Well, I have an appointment to see an advisor tomorrow. I will be switching from law to sociology. I see teaching as a great opportunity to make a difference.

And if the little devils get outta line you already know how to bust their a**es and cuff em.

[daveyjones978]

Most teachers that I know in Vegas have Master's degrees, or are in the process of obtaining them.

From a comparison, CCSD will definitely hire you without a Masters degree, but I believe it's expected that you will eventually return for one.

I'm actually considering this as well as an option for when I finally get out there.

To the OP. Best of luck. I think you'll love it there (here)!