How can I get a job teaching at a public school in Saint Louis County?

Question

I currently teach at a Catholic school that is closing due to low enrollment and I would like to get a job at a public school, but I have been getting very few responses to the resumes I have sent out. I do not understand why. I have 2 years teaching experience one public in Jackson Missouri and one private in St. Louis. Does anyone have ideas of how I can get my foot in the door?

Answer 1

I have several suggestions:

1. After you've filed your appication packet (and resume, etc) with human resource offices, send another letter directly to principals of the schools you want to work at. Let the principal know that you admire the school and that you're interested in interviewing with him/her. Attach a copy of your resume. Why does this work? a) Human resource offices are notorious for ignoring people. b) Principals have more direct control over who is hired.

2. Be sure your cover letter stands out. Use a little color in the letterhead. Don't be afraid to boldface any important keywords. Use bulleted points in your cover letter-- that really makes it stand out from the sea of "normal" letters.

3. Network. Network. Network. If you know ANYONE that teaches in the schools you're applying to, have them put in a good work for you. Principals often listen to recommendations from other teachers and staff-- it can get you an interview as a professional courtesy.

4. Have someone proofread your cover letter and resume. Don't hoose someone who glances at your papers and says, "It's fine." Find a proofreader who actually makes worthwhile suggestions. Simple spelling mistakes and grammar goofs can prevent you from getting calls.

I hope this helps a little. I know of a really good eBook abnout getting teaching jobs that will probably help you-- It called, "Guide to Getting the Teaching Job of Your Dreams." It's at: http://www.iwantateachingjob.com It had information and advice about finding and applying for teaching jobs, common teacher interview questions and answers, etc. Maybe the book can give you some good ideas.

Best of luck to you!!

P.S. I love St. Louis-- beautiful city-- been there several times before.

Answer 2

From what I understand, the St. Louis public schools are a mess. If you are attempting to apply to the St. Louis city schools you may have to wait until they decide what to do about the impending state takeover. They will probably have a standardized process to hire new teachers. From what I have read in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the state is wanting to push out many of the experienced (expensive) teachers and fill the positions with newer (cheaper) teachers. If you fit their mold, you are probably in.

Answer 3

You need to be certified or certifiable. Maybe your resume style is not impressive, look for opinions. Are you providing a cover letter with your resume? Go in person and fill out applications in different places. After interview make sure you write a thank you letter. Take those applcations home and type them, you need to be extremely neat and impressive. Again make sure your resume is very sharp! If you need ideas go to your local library and search for teachers resume. Good luck!

Answer 4

possibly offered in sociology better stages, as a mythic or political phenomenon. Or in theatre or lit type for comedian alleviation. As a confirm, i'd like my toddlers to a minimum of observe that there are those "pseudo-medical" theories, and definitely, there is slightly actuality to it, yet i'm no longer asserting I believe the middle or maybe any of what Dembski says. regardless of the undeniable fact that, i does no longer "censor" out this, because it is a factor of the typical public debate or communique. Do you spot my ingredient?

Answer 5

You need to be certified in the state in which you are applying. The people looking at your letter probably assume you are not certified since you taught in a parochial school.

Answer 6

Use MOREAP. It is on the web and you can post your resume and electronically apply for jobs.