NY teacher wants to move to NoVA (Arlington, Centreville: middle school, pros and cons)

[ladys]

I'm an English teacher from Brooklyn, New York, and I'm planning to relocate to northern Virginia. I was surprised to find out that I will be taking a major salary cut!

I know that the schools in Arlington and Fairfax are great (according to the websites). Does anyone know any inside information about good schools to WORK at?

Also, is it highly competitive to secure an English position at the middle school level? When are schools usually looking to hire?

If anyone has worked in both areas, what are some pros and cons for each?

Thanks!

[bemn]

Ladys,
Read your post regarding teaching in Northern Virginia and couldn't help myself from responding. Although I'm not a teacher, I'm a parent of three boys, one 3rd grader, one 6th grader and one 7th grader, and as such have quite the vested interest in good teachers being employed at the schools!! My boys have attended private school since they began, primarily because of our concern with class sizes. All three have different learning differences, so schooling is always at the top of my concerns. Fairfax County schools are supposed to be one of the best in the country. Most parents are very happy with our local schools. I personally reside in Centreville, Va. and have heard nothing but positive things regarding all of our local schools, both elementary and middle school, as well as high schools. You might also want to pick up a copy of a directory of private schools in the area as there are quite alot and this may be a more economical option for you to consider. A good English teacher is ALWAYS an asset!!! Good luck!!!!