I took a new job at the end of the school year, knowing that I was going to take a pay cut. It cuts my daily commute from 2 hours to 1/2 hour, saving me tons in gas, tolls, and oil changes for my 200k+mile car. My share of the health/dental insurance is a fraction of what it was at my former job, so I figured I would come out about even anyway.

When I got my contract, they had me at the Master's level instead of the CAS/Doctorate level. I asked about it, and they said since I don't officially have either, I will have to stay at the Master's level. Like I tell my students, persuasive writing is one of the most important things they can learn to do, as it will help them for the rest of their lives. So . . . I wrote a persuasive email to the superintendent back in July. I explained that I could have my CAS right now, but if I did that, I can't get my doctorate; it's one or the other, and I am working on my dissertation because I want my doctorate. I also explained that I know everyone is trying to save money, but think how much they will save because I already have my M.Ed (so they don't have to pay for classes), and I have my National Board Certification (another $2500).

I got home the other night to an email from my supervisor, out of the blue, saying they decided to raise me to the CAS level. :-) I had already signed my contract at the lower pay, so I was thrilled. It's only $2k, but it's $2k more than I was making a month ago :-), and it's the point that they are acknowledging my credentials. So, with this, I will probably end up with more money in my pocket than I was making in my previous district, plus will gain so much more personal time back in commuting.

It's a nice start to the school year.