I'M CERTIFIED! You always knew I was certifiable, but now it's official... →[More:]
This morning, I checked the status of my application for final teacher certification online at the New York State Department of Education website, and, after almost a year of purgatory, waiting for my application to be reviewed, my certificate has been "Issued."
I almost can't believe it... I tried calling the state this morning, just to put the cherry on the sundae, and to find out when I'd receive the paper in the mail, but I couldn't get through. Yesterday, it took me several hours to get through to someone, but finally I did. I even managed to talk to one of the elusive "evaluators"; she pulled my file, and, literally, five minutes later, completed the evaluation. I'm no longer in danger of being taken off payroll for an expired certificate.
My new certificate is also backdated to the expiration date of my previous one, which means I'm definitely tenured (i.e., guaranteed a job in NYC schools). Ten years ago, I didn't think much about job security or pensions, but now, the prospect of growing old at my desk doesn't seem so scary. (I can still write my books, right? And travel and get naked on the porch...).
Thanks to all, though, who kept fingers, toes, and various other appendages crossed... your support is greatly appreciated. In the past, I've tended to keep troubles to myself, but, I must say, it's been good having y'all there with me, virtually or otherwise.
For all Gotham dwellers, Jon and I are meeting at the White Horse, at 567 Hudson Street, later this afternoon, and all are welcome to join us in raising a celebratory glass.
photo by splunge
photo by TheophileEscargot
photo by Kronos_to_Earth
photo by ethylene
