Should I stay or should I go now...

OldDude · Mar 21, 2019

Are you happy where you are now?

What would the salary and commute comparison be?

Jacquipals · Mar 21, 2019

I am happy but feel like I'm not making the most of my nursing skills (small school, less than 200 kids and I don't give even one daily med!).

Salary and commute would be about the same.

SaltineQueen · Mar 21, 2019

The pension, for me at least, is nothing to brag about. But a nice little perk. Would you change ages?

OldDude · Mar 21, 2019

If you're happy I'd stay...if it ain't broke don't fix it. You could probably find some prn job to engage the nursing skills you are concerned about not utilizing.

Good Luck! Let us know what you decide.

ruby_jane, BSN, RN · Mar 21, 2019

If you go there will be trouble/If you stay it will be double

(singing the entire Clash song)

I left 2700 incoming high schoolkids and the possibility of no aide in the clinic for 500+ preK-7, no aide, busy campus, a lot of procedures. I have not regretted it. I like Old Dude's suggestion. Remember the grass is greenest where you water it.

Guests · Mar 21, 2019

Yes! And I am! I told my principal and DSO I was not renewing my contract for next year. I love this job but the hours are way too long for me with my family commitments. I extended my hours this year b/c the school needed more coverage so I work 8-3:30 and get home at 4pm. Next year they want me 7:45-4:30 so I had to tell them no. It was a really hard decision. I have decided for next year I am going to sub all year and work when I want to . I know I am very fortunate to be in this position to be able to afford to do that. I was just feeling uneasy about the fact that I was not available to pick my kids up from school or supervise homework, etc. They are 11 and 13 and although they are very independent and have been amazing this year letting themselves into the house, getting a snack and doing homework, I have missed out on after school stuff. Anyway, we will see what happens after next school year. My current school already wants me at the top of their sub list and I am more than happy to sub for them. I will miss this place.

kidzcare · Mar 21, 2019

If the pension is worth it... I'd go for it. The retirement plan was one of the reasons I became a school nurse.

jess11RN · Mar 21, 2019

I keep going back and forth. I hate the fact that I cover 2 schools and there's no hope that I will get the help I need any time soon. I have been casually looking and went on 1 interview. I've learned through this process of looking and talking with folks that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. You will probably trade one thing you don't like about your district for a different thing that you don't like at another. Am I happy? Some days, yes, some days, no. But, it's the schedule that has kept me where I'm at. I'm able to get home for my kids after school and right now, that's the most important thing.

Your day at a public school may look different than at a private school and I personally wouldn't make a switch just for the pension. I like OD's suggestion...if you're happy, then stay.

imaneedmycoffeefirst89 · Mar 21, 2019

I've applied to the RN program here, so if I get accepted, this will be my last year. I may sub, but I do have another PRN that pays WAAAAAAAAYYY more than subbing here so not sure.

BrisketRN, BSN, RN · Mar 21, 2019

It's always in the back of my mind. I love the private school I'm at but the pay is low. I'm thinking I'll start the certification process next year (complicated in IL), and if my school isn't willing to work with me I might sub while I get certified then move on to bigger & better pay checks.

imaneedmycoffeefirst89 · Mar 21, 2019

As regards to your job, honestly I'd stay. Like previous posters have said the grass isn't always greener on the other side. My school is a busy school and have about 25 routine daily meds, 1 diabetic and about 10-15 walk ins lol.