Out of State Credentials

Still not sure? Read what other out of state teachers are saying about moving to the Kern High School District

I made the transition from Arkansas to Bakersfield, CA to teach at Mira Monte High School in July 2016. As a novice teacher, MMHS and the other schools in the Kern High School District have so many supports to get you through the challenging first year. We have understanding and perceptive administration who have experience dealing with the stressful, chaotic, and celebratory moments that arise during the school year. They recognize the importance of being a lifelong learner and teacher growth. The Kern High School District has paid for me to attend the Learning Tree PLC and CATE Conferences this year to further my own teaching practice. The first semester, every Monday is devoted to planning time with the other teachers in your grade and subject matter. This is essential-especially when moving from out of state. I was not completely familiar with the curriculum, but by devoting this extra hour a week to collaboration, I picked up what I needed to make the transition simple. The students here are so creative and hard-working, and I look forward to work every single day. Outside of school, living in Bakersfield has a lot of benefits. The cost of living is very affordable here, especially with the great salary from KHSD. We are between 2-4 hours from Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Sequoia National Park, and my favorite place to visit-Santa Barbara. It is very easy to hop in the car on Friday afternoon and spend the weekend away when you need to relax. Moving across the country can be scary and anxiety-inducing, but KHSD is worth the move. You learn so much about yourself and the teaching profession by taking a risk, and I am so pleased that I did.

Kaitlin Martindale

I remember seven years ago reading testimonials from teachers who had relocated to work for KHSD, wondering what to expect. I decided to make the move from Illinois to California because I was looking for a warmer climate, competitive salary and benefits and just a general new experience. I started out teaching Earth Science at Mira Monte High School. My experience with KHSD has been wonderful, as I have met great friends and colleagues and have been afforded opportunities to teach a variety of classes in a variety of settings, as well as pursue my passion to coach football. Bakersfield and the Kern High School District have been very good to me. Bakersfield offers the unique dynamic of a large population with a small town feel. You can find anything you like to do here, whether you like the beach or the mountains or big city entertainment—it’s all within an hour or two of Bako. Last weekend I went to a hockey game; this weekend I am going on a three night backpacking trip in Sequoia National Forest.

Derek LaRosa
Dean of Athletics at Independence High School

I first was introduced to the Bakersfield and the Kern High School District at a local teacher job fair in my home state of Michigan. After interviewing at the job fair with KHSD and later on the phone, I was offered a science teaching position at Shafter High School in Shafter, a small town right outside of Bakersfield. After much deliberation with my family, I decided to take the leap and move across the country to Bakersfield. It was by far, the scariest decision I have ever made, but it was also the best decision I have ever made. If you get the chance to come teach here, take it!

Kourtney Ciaravino