Spec Ed teaching jobs/competitive market? (Fairfax: transfer, schools, living)

[katfzl]

My husband is already out there, the kids and I moving out in June. We are getting the impression that teaching jobs are very competitive in NOVA, and I'm beginning to worry I may not find a teaching job. I have a MsEd, ELS endorsement and license in mild disabilities/LD. I specialize in reading,dyslexia. Three years experience, each year in a different school and state (lot of moves). I have submitted applications, but only one skype interview so far. Any opinions?

[North Beach Person]

There is a constant demand for SPED in the DC area. Right now the various school systems are just beginning to sort out resignations, retirements and transfers, so it will be at least another month, if not two, until the districts start to get an idea of what they'll need next year.


As an example, I retired last July 1. It was common knowledge that I was going to, but nothing was "official" until I filed my paperwork in June. As a result, my school did not officially have a vacancy until my retirement was approved and the Principal couldn't officially interview someone until then. And even then, he had to interview transfers and placements from other schools before new applicants.


You also need to find out if your certifications are transferrable, some are and some aren't.

[tgbwc]

Originally Posted by katfzl

My husband is already out there, the kids and I moving out in June. We are getting the impression that teaching jobs are very competitive in NOVA, and I'm beginning to worry I may not find a teaching job. I have a MsEd, ELS endorsement and license in mild disabilities/LD. I specialize in reading,dyslexia. Three years experience, each year in a different school and state (lot of moves). I have submitted applications, but only one skype interview so far. Any opinions?

I think you're in good shape.

[katfzl]

Makes sense. My current district knows I am leaving, but also can't open my position yet. I already have a Professional Virginia License, so my certs are good to go.

Originally Posted by North Beach Person

There is a constant demand for SPED in the DC area. Right now the various school systems are just beginning to sort out resignations, retirements and transfers, so it will be at least another month, if not two, until the districts start to get an idea of what they'll need next year.


As an example, I retired last July 1. It was common knowledge that I was going to, but nothing was "official" until I filed my paperwork in June. As a result, my school did not officially have a vacancy until my retirement was approved and the Principal couldn't officially interview someone until then. And even then, he had to interview transfers and placements from other schools before new applicants.


You also need to find out if your certifications are transferrable, some are and some aren't.

[katfzl]

Getting nervous. I haven't had a single interview! I have MsED and license in sped (mild/LD), 3 years experience, and special training in Orton-Gillingham/dyslexia as well as full professional Virginia license...

[tgbwc]

Originally Posted by katfzl

Getting nervous. I haven't had a single interview! I have MsED and license in sped (mild/LD), 3 years experience, and special training in Orton-Gillingham/dyslexia as well as full professional Virginia license...

Have you contacted schools on the current FCPS vacancy list? I understand being nervous, but it's still only May.

[choff5]

If I remember right (now retired) this is the time in FCPS that the internal transfers are finishing up and the dominoe effect is occurring until the individual principals know exactly where their openings will be. I also remember that this was the time they did not post the vacancies on the FCPS website until July 1st. Even if that is still the case, if you have your paperwork in to HR, then also go ahead and send it to the various schools near where you will be living as principals can still look at it. They will know their needs before its public knowledge. Hirings happen throughout the summer up to and beyond the start in the fall. Keep checking with the schools.

[katfzl]

Originally Posted by tgbwc

Have you contacted schools on the current FCPS vacancy list? I understand being nervous, but it's still only May.

Yes, I have been applying with Fairfax and Prince William.

[patriot201]

Where are you moving? Are you interviewing for both gen ed and special ed positions?

[Citygirl45]

Email every school you want to work in with your resume. It's still really early in the hiring season ... There are tons of openings in Fairfax county. A lot happens in August and even after school starts. I think you have a VERY good chance of getting a job.