What a feeling!

This song from Flashdance has been on my mind for the last few days, and I have a good reason for it. I somehow lucked out and was asked to help recruit teachers to join our organization. Now, some may say that the exotic locale of the recruiting fairs was the reason for my rejuvenation. They would be incorrect.

Picture this: 600 eager, international educators looking for a new adventure in a foreign land. Oh, the choices… Shanghai, Warsaw, Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur. Yes, yes, they all sound like marvelous places, but the true super stars were wanting to join us in the Magic Kingdom. They knew the real deal- ISG is shaking things up!

Recruiting fairs are stressful, frantic, and very judge-y (unfortunate, but true). The gates open, teachers slowly approach the recruiters, hoping to be chosen for an interview. Then, the interview happens in a hotel room (yes, weird) and is completed in 30 minutes or less. It is speed dating, but the 2nd date lasts 2 years- contractually! This means you have to choose wisely and go with your gut. Oh, the stress!

You can tell a lot about a teacher candidate when you ask them to describe a typical class. The magic happens when the nerves go away and they are transported from the hotel room to their classroom. Their eyes widen, their smile grows, and the passion they have flows out into the room. I was so invigorated with their storytelling, student-focused lessons, and love for their students. These are the candidates I wanted to spend more time getting to know. Passion is not taught or learned; it’s in your heart and soul. I totally get these teachers.

So, thank you to all the passionate teachers and administrators who eat, sleep, and breathe LEARNING and KIDS! There are lots of us out there.