“Both my husband and I are getting certified now (in the same subject) and will both be looking for jobs during the Summer 2009 hiring season. Are there any articles or advice for those that will be looking for two jobs, not just one? In some countries its normal for employers to ask about your spouse’s situation when you interview for a job, but in America that’s against the law of course. We think our situation would be an asset to most schools, but how does a couple “sell themselves” on this without seeming pushing or make their interviewer nervous? For example, should we go to job fair booths together, or make our rounds separately? Other teaching couples I know weren’t looking for jobs in the same hiring season, were certified in different subjects, or simply didn’t get married until they were both out of school.”
- Student Teacher
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Please email your student teacher questions to eric@road2teaching.com.
Couples looking for the same job, at the same time, need to interview as individuals. American public school districts hire teachers based on an individual’s qualifications for a specific job. The interviewer will not be ‘nervous’ should the topic of ‘my spouse is also interested in a job within the same district’ arise. They may view you as ‘pushy’ by implying that you will not take the current job should your spouse not also be hired within the district. Many districts have multiple job postings for the same subject – within the same building or simply within the district. You need to check the specific districts employment policy prior to interviewing.
Principals are searching for highly-qualified teachers whose talents and personalities match the needs within their school. Two highly-qualified teachers with different personalities may not be hired by the same district due to the needs of the schools populations.
Math, science and special education teachers are in high demand. Highly-qualified teachers willing to teach in low-income, urban, highly-diverse schools are in great demand. If your certifications are in one of these areas, or you are willing to work in a highly challenging environment, you may be able to successfully discuss your desire with the interviewers.