Why can't I find an elementary teaching position in North Carolina?

Question

What am I doing wrong?

I am a licensed elementary teacher. I graduated in December from UNC Charlotte (a wonderful place to get an education degree). My university supervisor and cooperating teacher told me that I am a wonderful teacher and have given me WONDERFUL letters of recommendations, but I'm still having a hard time finding a job. I've faxed, personally delivered, and e-mailed my resume to over 40 schools (CMS system, Lincoln County, Iredell County, Kannapolis, Mooresville,Cornelius, Cabarras, and Catawba Coutny). I've also filled out all applications online for these places, including the State's DPI's website. I haven't gotten any phone calls back. Why? Is there something else I should do? I'm so worried. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

I know you've searched, but i thought i'd give you a decent site that puts all of the job search sites together.

good luck finding that job and sorry it's been such a pain!

http://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=elementary+...

Answer 2

i agree with a previous poster that you should also be applying to some districts for per diem subbing.  not only will this allow you to know that you will have a steady income, but it will also allow you a personal foot in the door.  the principal can get to know you.  even if you have to do one year of subbing, that will usually help you get a job.  

i am not in NC, but in PA the districts start the application process earlier for the hard to fill positions, and save elementary positions for last.  they figure they could have those filled in a matter of minutes, if needed.  however, the middle school/high school and/or special ed jobs are harder to fill, so they need to spend more time on them.  

good luck!  and keep your head up.

Answer 3

OK well I don't know if this will make you feel any better but- I am having the same problem in Ft Worth, TX.  Elementary is so competitive- everyone wants them when they are babies.  If it is anything like it is here you may not hear anything until right before school starts  or even a couple of weeks in.  The way it works is first they place teachers surplussed by population changes in the district, then teacher transfer requests are processed.  These two steps take until July and it is only then that they start to hire new teachers.  The only exceptions is if you know someone on the inside.  I agree that is is unfair- I am a fellow sufferer.  Just keep your head up and be strong- it will happen.

Answer 4

keep looking try Polk, Buncombe, Henderson, Avery, McDowell - just get your foot in the door in any school.

try the charter schools too

in the meantime, if you are not working, tutor for a reasonable price.

good luck

Answer 5

I know it's seems that it is taking forever..........  call the individual school to see if that helps.............. Working in this state is not bad or backwards.............. I have worked in NC for almost six years and I am very happy.   Go to job fairs and you can find them North Carolina public school's website. Every county is listed with job openings............. you just have to be persistent.

Good luck!!!

Answer 6

It's all about who you know.  You need to start substituting in some of these districts to get your name out there.  Other teachers can help you out tremendously by requesting you.  Your resume is just a piece of paper.  

I'm from upsate NY and a lot of teachers leave here and go south to get jobs.  Good luck!

Answer 7

The entire state is ***-backwards!  You didn't know this.  It's the south.

Answer 8

Why don't you speak to the human resources department and ask them why haven't you received a call... and if that doesnt work apply for alternative/adult learning facilities....do you have experience if you have never teached but volunteered you should have put that on your resume