Proposal 2 did not pass last night. I spent the early part of the day, freezing my toes numb, talking to voters outside the precinct. I worked from seven until about 2:30, when my back could no longer handle it. I'm glad I did it, though; that type of work makes me feel alive.
Now that collective bargaining is not constitutionally protected (but anti-gay marriage is) in Michigan, what does it mean? I don't know, but I don't have a good feeling about the future of education in the state. I am worried that "right-to-work" legislation will pass in a heartbeat. A bill like that will financially choke the unions, as many teachers in a variety of districts, mine in particular, have taken pay cuts. We still have the threat of a charter school over our heads heads at my school and I am quite certain the for-profit company that were to take over would fire anyone for organizing activity. Maybe I should go down a rebel. The idea is appealing.
Or, I can start to formulate Plan B - a career change at the age of 45. This is a scary prospect, but one I cannot dismiss. Perhaps the universe is sending me a sign to take a chance on something new. I have to gather my wits and figure out my qualifications for anything. I am certain I must have marketable skills.
In the meantime, I will continue to try and impress some agent with my book. And, of course, I will continue to teach to the best of my ability.
No comments:
Post a Comment