Job Searching #2

While in Akron, we essentially held down two full-time jobs:  Shelter Care and Cornerstone FMC.  When we moved to New Middletown, we dropped nearly $1,500 of income per month!  Again, it was essential that Debbie find a job to supplement the family income!  I moved to New Middletown first alone;  the family followed about six weeks later.

Upon her arrival, Deb immediately went to the Springfield Local Administration building to apply for work as a teacher's aid.  That day, it just so happened that the elementary school secretary was filling in at the high school for the day.  Her name is Diane, and Debbie and I have known her casually through the years since she used to attend the New Middletown Free Methodist Church.  As they chatted, Debbie told her that she was there to apply for a teacher's aid position.  It was late July.

No positions became available and we were disheartened.

Then, the first day of school arrived.  The Learning Disability Class teacher - Cindy - came to the elementary school office to report that her aid had not reported for work.  Upon contacting her they found that she had no plans to return for the new school year.  The elementary school principle and the learning disability class teacher were in an immediate dilemma!

At that moment, Diane remembered seeing Debbie at the Administration Offices back in late July.  She told the principle about Debbie, giving her a very high recommendation!  He suggested that Diane call Debbie immediately to see if she was still looking for work.

When Diane's call came, she told Debbie about the situation at the school.  She asked if Debbie would like the position and if she could begin the next day. With great joy and excitement, Debbie accepted the position and reported for work the next morning.  She was Cindy's aid for nine years until we left for China.  Her friendship with Cindy (and the other teachers) have become so meaningful to Debbie (and me).  She literally loved the job and the children that she worked with over the years.

JOB SEARCH TIP #2
When you put your application in, be friendly and speak to as many people in that workplace as you can - especially people you know!