Newbie from Texas

[Karen]

Hey Y'all!

I'm new to the group! This site was recommended from the "I Love Germany" Facebook page. I posted a question on their page asking if anyone worked for DODDS, someone replied with your website!

I'm very interested in chatting with anyone who is currently or who has previously taught for DODDS.

Thanks so much!!

[JOFTAA]

My wife is a DoDDS teacher. I am sure that I can help you. If not, I can get the info you wish.

[Karen]

Thank you so much - that's awesome!! I've tried to find info online but is not that easy...and I've "heard" that "they" don't often hire outside - especially elementary.
Yes...I know you can't always believe what you "hear" - thank goodness, right??

I would appreciate any info you could provide!!

What grade does she currently teach?

[JOFTAA]

My wife teaches first grade. Are you being hired, or are you already hired? And, for the record, my wife was hired from outside. :beerchug:

If you are already hired, congratulations! If not, have you applied? The place to apply is usajobs.com. Good luck! It is tough, but it can be done. We're living proof of that.

[Karen]

I am in the process of filling out the application. Need to order transcripts, etc. I have no idea how long the process takes to be considered for the upcoming school year.

I have taught 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th over the past 20 years. I'm g/t certified, ESL certified, and have a masters in instructional technology.

Awww...I loved my time in first grade - no state tests to worry about!!

How long have y'all been there, and where are you originally from??

[JOFTAA]

When my wife was hired, it was YEARS between her application and being hired. My wife is nationally board certified and has her certificates in ESOL and Gifted Ed, as well as having her masters.

It sounds like you have a lot of the same credentials that my wife has.

Just don't expect that because you are credential heavy that you will be hired fast. It can be a long, drawn out process. I'm not trying to discourage you. Do apply, by all means. The job is very rewarding, and the benefits will not be better anywhere else.

Working for DoDDS / DoDEA is fantastic!

[Karen]

Years?? Wow...I had no idea!! How many are we talking???
BTW...I do appreciate your honesty.

I am not nationally board certified, just state certified with a lifetime certificate.

I still plan on finishing my application even though it looks like it could take awhile. I REALLY want to do it!! It would be a wonderful experience professionally as well as personally!

I would really love to talk to your wife sometime - not that I don't enjoy talking to you :-)
May I ask how long she has worked for DoDDS?

[JOFTAA]

My wife has been with DoDDS for 2 years today! From the day she filled her application to the day they called her to see if she was still interested was over three years.

As far as you applying. Absolutely do! If you don't apply, you have no chance at all. If you do apply, and it takes a while for them to contact you, it isn't like you have to sit around waiting for the call.

Truth is, my wife had forgotten that she had applied. The phone call came as a bit of a surprise.

One piece of advise is to make sure you keep your online application/resume current. Any little thing you do that can improve your chances should be documented.

You have more chances of being hired by DoDDS than you do of speaking to my wife. She doesn't do forums at all. I've never been able to talk her into it. But, if you have specific questions, I can ask her and answer you on her behalf.

Just write down your questions, and after a week or so when you have a bunch of questions, I will get the info for you.