Finding a Job

[smilineyes]

I need advice. I taught for three years in a district that was very rough. I quit last year and have not been able to find another teaching job. I fill out the applications, and nothing. I follow-up and nothing. Don't call us, we'll call you. The phone doesn't ring--ever. The rejection is getting to me. I am working as a teacher's aide, or paraprofessional, now. I am bored out of my mind. There are NO listings in my subject area in the entire district where I am employed. This could change, but . . . It is a tight market. There are at least 100 applications per job, approx. 1500 applications are received per district each hiring year I have been told. Has anyone experienced this? If so, how did you get a job? or . . .??? I don't know what to do. I did a long-term teaching position for a teacher on maternity leave last year, which went well. They haven't started interviewing yet. I will take any suggestions or ideas. After leaving the bad situation I was in, I really thought I would move up, not down.

[scrivener]

Hi smilineyes:

I totally feel for you, and don't blame you for starting to get down on yourself. It's only natural that your sense of self-worth is taking a beating, but it sounds like you believe you're a good teacher, and I think that's something you need to hang onto for now.

It's entirely possible that you're NOT a good teacher, and that the reason you can't get a job is related to this, but you simply cannot arrive at that conclusion based on what you've been through so far. Remember, this is all about bureaucracy, and a bureaucracy is a machine. It churns away at its intended task with little regard for whom is runs over. It's just too early for you to begin to feel this way.

Crunch time is just before the school year begins and just after. You've got to keep at it, even if you find yourself without a position as the new year rolls up.

You didn't say what your area is, and what your credentials are. If you're willing to move to Hawaii, I might be able to pass your name along to people I know.

Let's get through this together. Hang in there!

[TubbyTeacher]

Your teaching experience and subject matter experience make a difference. Right now, our district has a slew of openings for math and science. On the other hand, there are ten applicants for every social studies post. See if you can test into an additional subject area if your subject is holding you back.

You also have to learn to schmooze. Teaching is a networking profession. Many positions are not posted on websites, and are posted internally on district emails and bulletin boards. That means that you need to meet people who will help you look for a position. People will not want to help you if you tell them you need help. I know that sounds absurd, but it is true. You have to sound self-confident, enthusiastic, and energized when you schmooze.