Sixty-four school districts attend Teacher Recruitment Day

Rosie Dunlap
Staff Writer

Jackson State University students hoping to enter the field of education had a chance to meet with 64 school districts on March 26 in the annual Teacher Recruitment Day sponsored by the JSU Career Services Center.

“Teacher Recruitment Day was designed for students that are in the education field and those considering entering into education. The Career Services Center provides an opportunity for these students to meet one on one with representatives from various school districts across the nation,” said Alissa Hughes, CSC Coordinator.

Many students attending were pleased to learn that some of the schools districts would be hiring students on the spot and they could potentially have jobs waiting for them after graduation.

“I feel as though Teacher Recruitment Day is good because it allows the graduating seniors and upcoming seniors a chance to get out in different school districts and show what they have learned here at JSU. This day helps them see how different school systems work,” said Shalakkeia Brocks,

Students not graduating in May also gained useful information at the event.

“I felt the fair was very informative.  I especially liked the idea that so many representatives from different states were in attendance, even my hometown,” said Shadai Hailey, a junior English education major from Detroit, Mich.  “As a junior, I learned many things that will help me next year when I start looking for employment.  How to dress; how contracts work and all the qualifications I need to become certified.”

Some of the school districts in attendance included: El Dorado Public Schools, Holmes County School District, Jackson Public School District, South Delta School District and many more.

Many students learned that many of the schools offer perks if you come to their district. If you work for a critical needs school in the state of Mississippi for at least four years or more, programs are in place to help students pay off student loan debt.

According to the Education Corner website, it is projected that until 2016, job growth for teachers is projected to increase by 12 percent, or just over 479,000 new jobs. This growth is in-line with average expected job growth in other industries.

During this same period, growth for teaching jobs is expected to increase quickest in Georgia, Texas, Arizona, and Nevada. Growth is projected to increase at the smallest rate in the Northwest.

Teachers willing to move and licensed in multiple subjects will enjoy more job opportunities than teachers licensed in only one subject and unwilling to relocate.

Candice Chambers, a senior English education major from Jackson, Miss., is looking forward to life after JSU.

“I have a plethora of opportunities to teach in school districts in-state and out-of-state. I have been contacted by principals and human resource representatives for potential teaching positions. I’m actually going to grad school full time,” said Chambers.

She added, “JSU has prepared me extensively for the job market. My classes have strengthened my knowledge base in the field of education and English. From professional development seminars to the teacher recruitment fair, I have had opportunities to develop myself for the work force.”