It is that time of year again, the annual Gyeonggi-do Education budget. A total of 33 schools were cut this year from the budget. Meaning, 33 Native English Teachers (NET) lost their funding and jobs. All high schools lost funding, including mine.
I am sure some of you remember that I have already signed a contract with my school for the next school year. Making that a total of 2.5 years at my current school. I am also sure that you realize that I am employed by a high school. Technically, I should be losing my job and not be able to sign a new contract with my school or even stay at my school for another year. Which scared me. When I saw the news, I immediately texted my co-teacher asking her about it and how had they let me sign a contract if they didn't know about funding. Basically, I was freaking out.
Turns out, the administration office, principal, and my co-teachers discussed keeping me on. They knew the likelihood of having our budget cut was high. So, they discussed the schools own personal budget. They decided (mainly my principal) that even if they got their funding cut, they would use their own money to pay for me to stay at the school. Basically, I am extremely lucky. My co-teacher told me that the principal is happy with my work here and really values English education and the presence of a Native Teacher. He was a big part in why I am staying. Yes, my co-teachers like me too but the principal can make or break a NET.
Once I heard this news I was relieved and no longer stressed. It was a scary time but I feel even more lucky to be at such a wonderful school. I know I am valued here, and that isn't something that always happens with NETs. It made me feel good about myself and my teaching, while making me love my school even more than I already had.
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