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Retirement can be rewarding
“Speak Out” provides members of the Alberta Teacher’s Association an opportunity to express views on education issues. These views do not necessarily reflect those of the ATA.
I read the well written article on retirement by Rudy Roman (“Retirement rewarding for John Henker—Substitute teacher is an active and busy community member,” ATA News, April 9, 2013) and would like to pass on another version of retirement.
I am retiring this year after a wonderful 37-year teaching career. When asked if I will substitute teach, I reply: “Absolutely! Positively! Not!” I am retiring; I need to step down and let a new teacher have a turn.
Young teachers are coming out of university and no matter how good they are, there are few jobs available and even fewer jobs with government cutbacks this year. If a young teacher is fortunate, he or she may get on a substitute teaching list. Not everyone is put on the list because there are limited openings, and I’m not going to take up one of those openings. Young teachers are paying off their student loans, paying their rent and putting food on their table. They want to start their careers, but they need to get out, be seen and get experience teaching. They are depending on those substitute teaching calls. Unlike me, they aren’t collecting a pension.
Some of our best and newly graduated teachers are struggling; some are leaving Canada in search for work and some are leaving the profession altogether.
If I feel an urge to get back into the classroom, rather than go on a sub list and take a spot away from a new teacher, I’ll mentor a young teacher or volunteer in a school—both experiences will be extremely valuable and fulfilling.
Chris Johnson, a teacher at Westboro Elementary School, in Sherwood Park, is retiring after teaching kindergarten for 37 years.
