u/Lower-Gap-4251

I’m a HS Bio teacher originally from the Syracuse, NY metro area. I love living & working in the Boston area, but as many of you know, it is stupid expensive. Although MA pays teachers well, I still have two roommates & some months are harder financially than others. I still make ends meet, but it can be tough.

I recently visited family in upstate NY and I would still make good money but would actually be able to afford a studio & even a car if I lived & worked in Syracuse. The only issue is I actually love living by the ocean and MA is gorgeous. I actually don’t live in Boston proper, but a part of me what to give it a try before I consider anything else. Thoughts? It’s ultimately my decision, but what do you all think?

I’m originally from the 315 but moved out of state. If I were to transfer my license to NYS, I saw that Syracuse pays more than what I make now. I have a masters & I am also AP Bio certified. I would enter step 3. I work in an inner city district now so that doesn’t bother me one bit. What do teachers on here think? Also, yes I know my pension doesn’t transfer but my 403(b) will.

Does the district really pay well? Which schools are best for science? Any other thoughts/comments?

I recently got an adjunct job at a local college for a non-majors Bio course that meets two nights a week. I am a High School Biology & Chemistry teacher with a master’s degree in Bio (I was a researcher for a few years). The department head was pretty honest that the material for the course is dry & is it often seen as an after thought from full time/tenured staff. I have permission to “clear house” & start from scratch. He was right, it’s pretty outdated & dry stuff.

I’ve taught dual enrollment and will teach AP Bio next year, but need direction on appropriate materials (lecture slides, notes, labs, case studies, etc). I feel like since this is non major, my dual enrollment/AP stuff is too advanced, but it is still college so my typical Bio CP is not challenging enough. Could any of you point me into the right direction where to find this materials? Or give me advice on what to do with my existing notes? This could be a solid chance to get ADULT learners engaged in the sciences.

Also, anyone else adjunct while teaching K-12? What is your biggest advice? Should I reach out and network to full time staff or just stay low?

Thanks!