You’ve been hired for your first teaching position—congratulations! Now what? University has taught you the theory of education, and you probably have some practicum experience, but what about all the things you were not taught in university? The unending paperwork, the staffroom dynamics, the inevitable conflict with parents, and so many other aspects of teaching that can only be learned from experience or a wise and seasoned guide already in the field. This book is your go-to guide for:

• Creating a system of organization

• Managing paperwork

• Communicating with parents, teachers, and administrators

• Developing your philosophy of teaching

• Knowing when to change schools, seek career advancement, or end your career as a teacher

With honesty and realism, the author, who has thirty years’ experience teaching high school, shares everything you need to know in your first years of teaching. Filled with practical advice, encouragement, and true stories of both the highs and lows in the profession, this book is like having a mentor by your side, and will help you experience the joy in teaching. You will never have to say, “no one told me there would be days like this.”

Gordon Farlie is a retired high school educator with thirty years’ experience in the school system. His roles have included department head, site administrator, liaison between high school, elementary, and post-secondary, and Science Olympics organizer and coach. He continues to work with students as a private tutor.

Gordon lives in Georgetown, Ontario, Canada with his wife Maggie, who is also a teacher. He has two children, Kevin and Anna, and a golden doodle named Leo.