Friday, February 10, 2006

To work or not to work

We've not yet decided whether or not Brandi will be working after the baby is born. Originally, she intended to continue working with no thought of being a "stay at home mom". But as we come closer to the due date, she is beginning to question whether it is such a good idea. A baby under one year seems so helpless. We are reluctant to trust just anyone to give the proper care. And, between our two schedules, we've not been able to find time to tour any child care facilities. I did call and get us on the waiting list for one of Lexington's "best". The waiting list is already until mid September, one month after she'd be starting back to work.

My wife is in her first year of teaching. Even if she continues working, the birth will lead into summer. So, the first few months are not an issue.

Another factor is that she is not currently teaching the classes she wants. Her degree is for middle school English and history. However, she got stuck teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in a rather rough neighborhood. At this school, 87% of the students qualify for free lunch and 13% qualify for discounted lunches (that's 100% qualifying for government assistance). Many of her students are simply waiting until they are old enough to drop out. Needless to say, this is a difficult job. If she gets offered a job teaching English or history, she'd probably take it.

Decisions, decisions....

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

The decision to go back to work is one that the two of you will have to decide upon on your own, based on your financial situation as well as your family values. Everyone will have their own opinions as to this subject, but only you will know what best suits your lifestyle.

Parenting is the most important "job" your wife will ever have (in my opinion). She can always go back to teaching other people's children when your child is old enough to be in school himself.

I was a teacher for 22 years. I would have loved to stay home with my babies if I could have.

Good luck with your decision.

P.