Moving from elementary math teacher to music teacher? Is this crazy?
As the title says- I’m considering moving from 4th grade Math to our school music teacher position.
I’ve taught math for 15 years. I’m tired of tests, developmentally inappropriate curriculum, and data being the end all be all. I love my school, coworkers, and still have one son at school with me for 4 more years. I don’t necessarily want out of teaching as a whole, just out of my current assignment. I can’t imagine moving down grade levels, and of course there’s still data measures and the crap curriculum.
I don’t think I need any other credentialing- I have a generalist cert. that covers elementary fine arts, music/art and also PE.
I would have all grades, k-5, for 23-25 minutes a day with a last period planning.
I’m well versed in the traditions at our school, and know most if not all students.
I have some background in music, can play an instrument and know the basics of what knowledge is needed based on curriculum.
My main focus- not teaching a tested subject. Not running myself ragged.
Add singing, dancing, and introducing kids to the creative side of themselves-that’s a dream!
Our current music teacher has been there 29 years, retiring. She’s a sweet work friend and said she’d help me with whatever I need, and help with any tradition planning. This position is not one open often. I told my principal I wanted to interview for it, I just hope she takes me seriously!
I’m cautiously optimistic, only because the only thing going for me is I’m well liked at our school, and know the ins and outs of the expectations. I have zero experience in this field of a teacher, which is probably the only strike against me being offered it.
Thoughts? Advice to get taken seriously?