Education Career Services, Grove City College

Job Search Tips

Getting Started

1. Identify (list) your strengths. Consider how you can articulate and demonstrate strengths.

2. Identify skills of a teacher. Develop a list of top skills that are needed to be a successful teacher. Consult Standards for Teacher Educators (Association of Teacher Educators) and Critical Skills for Teachers (AASPA Teacher of the Future).

3. Prepare a resume that is targeted to the district's needs. Rank-order information related to the employer's needs and focus on teaching experiences and related experiences/skills.

4. Identify potential references who can speak to your teaching strengths (co-op, college supervisor, building principal, etc.) Include others who have supervised you as an employee or in a leadership role. Give your references a copy of your resume and plenty of time to complete your letter of recommendation (start early). Follow up with a thank-you note. Prepare a list of a summary of references with full contact information; indicate each reference's relationships to you (e.g. Cooperating Teacher). Keep in touch with these critical members of your professional network!

5. Acquire necessary documents such as your college transcript, background clearances, and Praxis test scores.

6. Keep a streamlined and user-friendly portfolio. A 10-15 page portfolio may serve you better than a 40-page document. Bring it to an interview but don't expect to use it often.

7. In preparing a cover letter, research the school district. Keep cover letters to 1-page; professional language but not overstated. Target your strengths related to the needs of the district in your letter.

Identifying Employment Opportunities

1. Personal and Professional Network - Use your field experiences and student teaching contacts. Ask GCC Faculty for contacts or networking opportunities. Visit eCommunity and check the "Career Center" postings, as well as researching GCC alumni. Use networking contacts from professional conferences, as well as any family, friends, church members, etc.

2. Online Resources

State Departments of Education

3. Identifying School Districts

Employment Connections

Patterson's Ed. Directory (Curriculum Library)

Handbook of Private Schools (Mrs. Snyder's office and Curriculum Library)

Private Schools, e.g., Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)

Individual State Depts. of Education

4. Job Fairs - Check for job fair listings on eCommunity Career Center, State Dept. of Education websites, and college/university career center websites. Also check out the ECS listing of upcoming job fairs.

5. Relocating - Use your resources! Review the state Dept. of Education websites, Chamber of Commerce websites, local newspapers, district websites, and district personnel. Also, don't forget to use eCommunity to search for GCC alumni in that area.

Applying for Jobs

1. Research District Guidelines - Do they accept online applications only, hard copy only, PA-Educator applications? Can you submit an application if there are no posted vacancies? Where should you send your application? Check the district website for this information.

2. Submission of Materials - Include a cover letter targeted to the individual (name, not title). Print your resume and cover letter on nice quality paper (white or ivory). Enclose all materials in a large envelope (avoid folding). If necessary, call for clarification about process or materials. Submit complete files when possible (placeholder letter in lieu of certificate). Send only COPIES of documents; keep your originals!

3. Follow-up - Stay organized! Record everything including names, dates, methods of contact, phone conversations, etc. Keep a copy of everything--letters, resumes, thank-you notes, job notices, etc. Follow-up to ensure that your file is complete.

For clarification, information, or an appointment, contact Mrs. Snyder.