I Played 'School' as a Kid; My Aunt Played it for 36 Years
Every kid dreams about what they’ll be when they grow up. “A veterinarian!” “A basketball star!” “A police man!”, my classmates would scream whenever we were asked. I never had a strong answer for this question but the one thing I knew without a doubt was that I did NOT want to become a teacher. Having to go to school every day as an adult? NO THANK YOU. Did I play “school” with my friends? Of course, but after we took attendance, I would be ready for pick up. My dream at the time was to be a cashier. I wouldn’t have to deal with 28 screaming children and I would get to push buttons on the register all day. Fine by me!
You’re probably reading this thinking I had a change of heart and will now talk about how much teaching has changed my life. You’d be wrong. I did not, in fact, go against my elementary school convictions. I have, however, watched almost every single one of my friends follow their dreams and work their way to the front of the classroom. I’ve seen the blood, sweat, and tears they put into their careers. I’ve heard the good, bad and ugly stories about kids who finally learned how to read (under their tutelage, of course), parents who don’t care, and classroom funds that disappear faster than they arrive. Teaching is a calling and they answered the phone.
Throughout my education, I had great teachers. Dedicated, hardworking, special, memorable people. Outside of school, I was blessed with an aunt who also picked up the phone when teaching called. My aunt Rosalie started teaching during the 1968 NYC teacher’s strike. She was forced to resign at the time, but that didn’t sway her. When a deal was reached and the teachers were back in the classroom, my aunt took her fated position in front of the blackboard.
For 36 years Aunt Rosalie shaped the minds of Brooklyn’s youth. She would come home with stories of funny things “her kids” said and did, she would make sure they were dressed warmly in the winter by bringing in socks, long pants and my cousin’s old coats for those who didn’t have much. And when the need was higher than what she was able to give from her home, she would drag my uncle from store to store to buy coats and whatever else would make the children’s lives easier; better even. My aunt was a social butterfly but she willingly and unselfishly gave up her Sundays to lesson plan, think up crafts, and prepare for her week ahead. She believed whole-heartedly and said often that every child has the right to learn.
In the last few years before her retirement, she transferred to a school near her home on Staten Island. August rolled around and she would rally the troops to help set up her classroom. The first time I went to lend a hand, I assumed we’d be there for two, maybe three hours and then we’d go for lunch. Aunt Rosalie was big on lunch. I was sorely mistaken. We started off by cleaning the room from top to bottom. Then, she would figure out the furniture layout so her class would have a good flow. Next, came decorating the walls, door, and putting nametags on desks. Finally and reluctantly because there was always more to do, lunch. We would go back the next day to make copies, cut out shapes, and all of the clerical odds and ends that needed to get done before September.
Aunt Rosalie's classroom was an extension of her home: warm, inviting and full of heart. If you haven’t picked up on it yet - my aunt loved her job. She loved “her kids”. She was a mom of one, but a mother of thousands.
Aunt Rosalie passed away in December of 2022. After her funeral, I found myself in the comments section under her obituary. I saw a name that I did not recognize and assumed it was spam, but then I read it. The comment was from a former student of hers. He wrote: “I had the honor and pleasure of having Mrs. A_____ as my 5th grade teacher in ‘85-’86. Thank you for your compassion, humor, and the passion you showed me and my classmates. She will not be forgotten.” Through sobs, I took a screenshot of the comment and silently thanked the person for their kind words and for the recognition of something I knew my whole life - she was the best.
This past May I had the opportunity to celebrate the 100th year anniversary of my elementary school. I was excited to go inside and tour the school; see my old classrooms, the auditorium and smell the lunchroom. After the ceremony, they had a reception where I was able to see many of my former teachers, some of whom retired recently. I felt like a kid again, but in the best way. The daughter of one of my favorite teachers is now a dean in the school. I went over to her to tell her what her father meant to me when I was a student. I was elated to hear that he is doing well and living in Florida. I was able to catch up with my first grade teacher, who painstakingly took her lunch/prep time to teach me how to walk down steps. I went to see the gymnasium, where I bumped into my former gym teacher. After over 20 years, he still remembers me.
I didn’t write this to talk about my aunt, although I will always take the opportunity to sing her praises.
I didn’t write this to talk about my elementary school.
I wrote this to thank the teachers who care about their students, who want what’s best for their students. Who make their classrooms fun and engaging and conducive to learning. The pandemic took a toll on many industries but I think one of the biggest tolls was on teachers. People finally realized that it’s not just a job, it’s a labor of love. I tip my hat to each and every one of you. I also want to remind you that even when the days are hard and the years are long, you are making a difference and leaving a mark on each and every student that comes into your room.
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ABOUT THE ROLE The Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) is seeking an experienced curriculum specialist to design and update instructional material for in-person and online law enforcement training. This role focuses on translating state-mandated guidelines and best practices into actionable, engaging, and legally sound lesson plans, storyboards, and eLearning formats for law enforcement officers across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Coordinate with subject matter experts to research, create, and develop annual in-service curriculum within established timelines. - Partner with experts to revise in-person learning and e-learning lesson plan frameworks. - Develop, update, and revise lesson plans to incorporate research-based best practices for adult learning and police training. - Coordinate curriculum update classes for all MPTC certified instructors on new and revised lessons. - Train MPTC certified instructors on adult learning activities and techniques. - Create or assist with script development, storyboarding, and video-editing for online content rollout. - Work across divisions to ensure MPTC required regulations and critical projects are completed accurately and on time. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - At least four years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) professional, administrative, or managerial experience in business administration, business management, or public administration, with major duties involving program management, administration, coordination, planning, or analysis. - At least one year of the required experience must be in a supervisory capacity. - Substitutions: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field may substitute for up to two years of experience. A Graduate degree in a relevant field may substitute for up to three years of experience. A Bachelor's or higher degree in an unrelated field may substitute for up to one year of experience. No substitutions are permitted for the required one year of supervisory experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred: 5 or more years of experience in Curriculum Development or Instructional Design, ideally within a law enforcement, criminal justice, or military setting. - Preferred: Knowledge of adult learning principles, educational best practices, and pedagogy. - Preferred: Advanced experience with Microsoft Suite, Airtable, Adobe, Canva, Articulate software, and video editing programs. - Preferred: Basic project management skills and knowledge of the law enforcement field. - This position is potentially eligible for a hybrid work schedule. SELECTION PROCESS - First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days of the job posting. - The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. HOW TO APPLY - Applications must be submitted through the official Commonwealth of Massachusetts employment portal by creating a profile and applying for the job. - Applicants needing reasonable accommodations should contact the Diversity Officer and ADA Coordinator, Aiesha Grenier, at 857-276-3231. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Agency: Municipal Police Training Committee (MPTC) - Department: Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) - Job Type: Full-time - Shift: Day - Bargaining Unit: 06-NAGE - Professional Admin. - Location: Thomas Patten Drive, Randolph, MA - Job Posting Date: Jul 25, 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE Under general direction, this full journey-level position performs community risk reduction, public education, fire prevention, inspection, and code enforcement duties for residential, commercial, and industrial occupancies. Responsibilities include plan checking and testing of hazardous processes and fire protection systems. The role reports to the Fire and Life Safety Specialist and may provide lead direction on special projects or day-to-day assignments. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Inspect complex occupancies (e.g., churches, manufacturing, auto body garages, care homes) for compliance with federal, state, and local codes. - Review building construction, site, sprinkler, and fire alarm plans for regulatory compliance and perform related calculations. - Conduct fire sprinkler, alarm, and fire flow tests; review and track test results. - Inspect properties for weed abatement, issue notices, and follow up. - Inspect buildings under construction for compliance with fire and building codes related to prevention, detection, and suppression systems. - Manage special programs such as fire sprinkler servicing, fireworks display inspections, and Knox box installations. - Educate the public, lecture groups on fire safety, present educational programs, and publish educational articles. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Valid and appropriate California Class C Driver’s License with a good driving record. - Associate’s Degree or greater from an accredited college or university. - Current California State Fire Marshal (CSFM) Fire Inspector I certification. - Ability to complete the CSFM Fire Inspector II series of courses within one year (or completion of the previous CSFM Fire Prevention Specialist series: 2A, 2B, 2C). - Three years of paid experience as a Fire Inspector with a paid Fire Department, OR three years of experience enforcing building codes, OSHA, or similar inspection duties. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Desirable: Current CSFM Fire Inspector II certification or equivalent. - Desirable: Two years of professional experience as a plan checker. - Physical demands include lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds, climbing ladders, working on rooftops, and working in extreme weather conditions. - May require working modified workweeks, including evenings and weekends, and traveling within or outside the City for meetings or training. SELECTION PROCESS - Applications will be reviewed based on necessary employment standards. - Candidates may be invited to participate in a 100 percent weighted oral examination. - Passing candidates will be placed on an eligibility list for up to one year. - Successful candidates must pass a Personal History Questionnaire, polygraph or voice stress examination, extensive background investigation, medical examination, and drug or alcohol screen. - Proof of citizenship or eligibility to work in the U.S. is required at the time of hire. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a completed employment application and supplemental questionnaire online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/clovisca. - Deadline: August 12, 2026, at 4:30 PM Pacific Time. - Brief resumes are welcome as a supplement, but a resume alone will not be accepted in lieu of the completed application. - Veterans Preference Points may be provided if a DD Form 214 is attached at the time of submission. - For questions, contact Personnel at (559) 324-2725. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Clovis, California - Location: Clovis, CA - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Fire Department - Division: Life Safety & Enforcement - Job Number: 2600099 - Opening Date: 07/22/2026 - Closing Date: 8/12/2026 at 4:30 PM Pacific Time
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ABOUT THE ROLE The Gadsden Independent School District is seeking a current district employee to implement the special education assessment process. This role involves assessing the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services. The diagnostician provides diagnostic information and works cooperatively with instructional personnel to ensure the most appropriate programs are provided for students with disabilities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Receive student referrals and implement the assessment and evaluation process within federal and state timelines - Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special education services - Produce clear, understandable, and comprehensive written evaluation reports, considering linguistic, ethnic, and cultural diversity - Collect and organize relevant assessment data from student cumulative folders, teachers, principals, support staff, parents, and outside resources - Conduct classroom observations and personal interviews - Coordinate and participate in the Eligibility Determination Team (EDT) to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and IEP development - Provide staff development training to assist school personnel in identifying and understanding students with disabilities - Consult with professionals, parents, teachers, and administrators regarding assessment findings and educational needs - Accept ultimate responsibility for IEP compliance at each assigned campus and take necessary actions to correct compliance issues - Write and archive all evaluation reports using the district's evaluation report writer system - Protect the confidentiality of all information obtained during student evaluations - Maintain an inventory of assessment materials and participate in ongoing professional development MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Master's Degree in Educational Diagnosis, Special Education Guidance and Counseling, Educational Psychology, or other approved fields such as Speech Pathology or Remedial Reading - Two (2) years of teaching or equivalent experience with exceptional children, as evaluated and approved by the State Department of Education - Licensure in Special Education or Guidance and Counseling - Current Educational Diagnostician license issued by the New Mexico State Department of Education SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be a current Gadsden Independent School District employee - Regular district-wide travel to multiple work locations as assigned - Ability to regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds - Must maintain emotional control under stress - Strong language, mathematical, and reasoning abilities to analyze complex documents, apply advanced mathematical concepts (e.g., frequency distribution, analysis of variance), and apply principles of logic or scientific thinking HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the Gadsden Independent School District portal - Include three professional reference letters, all dated within the last 12 months - Current district employees must ensure that at least one of the reference letters is from their current supervisor EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: San Miguel, New Mexico (Chaparral Area) - Employer: Gadsden Independent School District (NM) - Department: Special Education Department - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 202301759 - Opening Date: 07/24/2026 - FLSA Status: Exempt - Work Environment: Moderate noise level; requires standing, walking, sitting, using hands, reaching, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, talking, and hearing. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.
ABOUT THE ROLE This position involves teaching academic classes to an adult incarcerated population in a secure correctional setting. The role requires utilizing research-based practices to deliver specialized instruction in subjects such as Adult Basic Education (ABE), English as a Second Language (ESL), Pre-Adult Secondary Education (PreASE), and Adult Secondary Education (ASE), while collaborating with the Education Division and administration staff. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Teach departmentalized academic classes including Reading, Language, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies - Complete daily student attendance and update incarcerated individual case plans, including awarding Earned Good Time and completing monthly performance ratings - Administer standardized testing, including TABE, TABE CLAS-E, HiSET, and HiSET qualifying exams - Maintain incarcerated individual education files, performing monthly purges and updating documentation as needed - Identify, recruit, and schedule incarcerated individuals for academic testing and appropriate educational programming - Address Case Plan referrals to academic and vocational programming within 30 days - Complete 40 hours of required training within the fiscal year and maintain a current teaching license - Report security-related matters promptly and manage the classroom consistent with institutional rules and regulations MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's Degree - Knowledge of principles, methods, and practices in adult education - Working knowledge of educational tests and assessments - Experience teaching content such as ABE, ESL, PreASE, and/or ASE - Experience teaching adult learners and ability to work effectively with incarcerated individuals, teaching staff, and administration SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Possession of an appropriate Teacher's Certificate issued by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education - Must have no felony convictions, including actions defined in 5 U.S.C. 301, U.S.C. 509, 510, and 42 U.S.C. 15601-15609 - Must not have engaged in sexual abuse in a prison or institution, or been convicted of sexual activity facilitated by force, coercion, or lack of consent - May be expected to work evening hours as operationally necessary - Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply - This position is not eligible for a hybrid work schedule SELECTION PROCESS 1. First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days of the job posting 2. Applications will be evaluated based on the candidate's education, experience, and alignment with the minimum and special requirements 3. Background checks and credential verifications will be conducted prior to hiring HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit an application through the official Commonwealth of Massachusetts employment portal 2. Ensure all relevant experience, education, and certifications are clearly documented in the application 3. Apply promptly to receive first consideration within the initial 14-day window EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Full-time - Employer: Department of Correction, Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Location: Massachusetts Treatment Center, 30 Admin Road, Bridgewater, MA - Official Title: Teacher (C) - Number of Openings: 1 - Shift: Day - Bargaining Unit: 10-SEIU Local 509 - Education - Job Posting Date: May 15, 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE This full-time position with the Massachusetts Department of Correction Education Division involves teaching and co-teaching academic classes (including ABE, ESL, PreASE, and ASE) with a preferred strength in Special Education. The role requires developing professional development for teachers, maintaining special education data, and delivering specialized instruction to an adult incarcerated population across Northern and Southern Sector facilities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and conduct special education instructional professional development for teachers in the Education division. - Teach or co-teach academic classes, which may be departmentalized into Reading, Language, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. - Coordinate documentation for testing accommodations and ensure materials are submitted timely. - Review and collaborate on research-based practices and current instructional methods to ensure effective practices. - Create Student Support Teams (SSTs) to review case plans. - Maintain all Special Education Data and produce, distribute, and maintain regular reports with the Data Analyst. - Complete daily student attendance and update incarcerated individual case plans, including awarding Earned Good Time and completing monthly performance ratings. - Administer standardized testing, including TABE, TABE CLAS-E, HiSET, and HiSET qualifying exams. - Maintain education files, perform monthly purges, and process incoming and outgoing documentation. - Identify, recruit, and schedule incarcerated individuals for academic testing and determine appropriate placement. - Address case plan referrals to academic and vocational programming within 30 days. - Report security-related matters promptly and manage the classroom consistent with institutional rules and regulations. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's Degree. - Knowledge of principles, methods, and practices in adult education. - Working knowledge of educational tests and assessments. - Ability to work effectively with incarcerated individuals, teaching staff, and administration. - Experience teaching Special Education and adult learners is preferred. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Possession of an appropriate Teacher's Certificate issued by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. - Must have no felony convictions, including actions defined in 5 U.S.C. 301; U.S.C. 509, 510; 42 U.S.C. 15601-15609. - Must not have engaged in sexual abuse in a prison or institution, or been convicted of sexual activity facilitated by force, coercion, or without consent. - Travel is expected to all DOC facilities in the Northern and Southern Sectors. - Must complete 40 hours of training within the fiscal year and maintain a current teaching license. - Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply. - This position is not eligible for a hybrid work schedule. SELECTION PROCESS - First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days of the posting. - Salaries for union positions are determined according to the provisions of the respective collective bargaining agreement. - The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. HOW TO APPLY - Applications must be submitted through the official Commonwealth of Massachusetts employment portal. - For Diversity, Affirmative Action, Equal Employment Opportunity questions, or Reasonable Accommodation requests, contact Diversity Officer and ADA Coordinator Janice Perez at 508-850-3648. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Agency: Department of Correction - Official Title: Teacher (C) - Job Type: Full-time - Shift: Day - Bargaining Unit: 10-SEIU Local 509 - Education - Location: 50 Maple Street, Milford, MA (with travel to all DOC facilities) - Job Posting Date: May 15, 2026 - Number of Openings: 1
ABOUT THE ROLE The Massachusetts Department of Correction is seeking a Teacher (C) for the Souza Baranowski Correctional Center. This role involves teaching academic classes to an adult incarcerated population in a secure setting. The ideal candidate will utilize research-based practices, maintain professional boundaries, and collaborate with the Education Division to deliver specialized instruction that supports the strategic goals of the institution. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Teach academic classes including Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies, with a preferred strength in ESL. - Utilize research-based practices, current instructional methods, and materials to ensure effective instruction. - Complete daily student attendance and update student case plans as required by Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). - Award Earned Good Time (EGT), complete monthly performance ratings, and manage time-sensitive documentation for program completion. - Administer standardized testing (TABE, TABE CLAS-E, HiSET, and HiSET qualifying exams) via tablet or paper/pencil. - Maintain student education files, including monthly purges, processing incoming/outgoing files, and updating documentation. - Track EGT for academic boosts and maintain/review educational program waitlists. - Identify, recruit, and schedule incarcerated individuals for academic testing and determine eligibility for educational programming. - Complete 40 hours of training within the fiscal year and maintain a current teaching license. - Report security-related matters promptly and manage the classroom consistent with institutional rules and regulations. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's Degree. - Knowledge of principles, methods, and practices in adult education. - Working knowledge of educational tests and assessments. - Ability to work effectively with incarcerated individuals, teaching staff, and administration. - Preferred: Experience teaching ESL and adult learners. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Possession of an appropriate Teacher's Certificate issued by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. - Must have no felony convictions, including actions defined in 5 U.S.C. 301; U.S.C. 509, 510; 42 U.S.C. 15601-15609. - Must not have engaged in sexual abuse in a prison or other institution, or been convicted of or adjudicated for sexual activity facilitated by force, coercion, or without consent. - Any incidents of sexual harassment will be considered in hiring decisions. - Bilingual applicants are strongly urged to apply. - This position is not eligible for a hybrid work schedule. SELECTION PROCESS - First consideration will be given to applicants who apply within the first 14 days of the posting. - Candidates will be evaluated based on their educational background, teaching certification, and relevant experience. - Strict background checks and compliance with Department of Correction hiring regulations regarding criminal history and conduct will be enforced. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a complete application through the official Commonwealth of Massachusetts employment portal. - Ensure all required certifications, degrees, and relevant experience are clearly documented in the application materials. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Correction - Location: Souza Baranowski Correctional Center, Harvard Road, Shirley, MA - Job Type: Full-time - Shift: Day - Bargaining Unit: 10-SEIU Local 509 - Education - Job Posting Date: May 15, 2026 - Number of Openings: 1