Well, I'm a 5th year teacher in Southern California. I have tenure but I've been laid off every year I've been teaching.
I get lucky and get rehired each year but it's never easy having to deal with the agonizing months of looking for other employment while still hoping you get rehired. It sucks!
I have 2 Masters degrees (one in Education and one in Reading) and 3 different teaching credentials (a K-8 General Ed Credential, a BCLAD which is an authorization to teach in Spanish and a a K-12 Reading Credential). All three are highly prized in my particular school district and in California yet seniority will always trump education and experience.
It's not easy because teachers are having to deal with large class sizes and limited funds for the basics like school supplies, books and programs. Many programs are being slashed such as art, music, pe, etc. Being a teacher in this economy is not easy. The pay isn't that great either no matter what people say. The cost of living is high and even with what I make, I am grateful my husband makes good money to enable us to be able to pay our mortgage, bills, etc.
My best advice for new teachers is to hang in there because unfortunately, I don't see it getting easier anytime soon.
Linear Mode
