Interview #3 - The Nicest Rejection I've Ever Gotten!

So today I went on my third interview. It was for a fifth grade science and reading teacher. This was "technically" my second interview with them, as the district required a preliminary video interview that the principals in the district (all six of them) could view and decide whether to call you in to meet in person. The principal called me last Thursday and said I did great on my video interview and wanted to meet me. I was thrilled! I was so nervous about doing the video that I was convinced no one would call. So we scheduled the interview for today.

I got to the interview and it was the principal and the three fifth grade teachers. No big deal, I was used to the "firing squad" interview format. They were really impressed with my certifications. They asked some really great questions: How do I handle parent communication? What does reading look like in my class? Name three qualities I have that make me a good teacher. Do I have experience with working in blocks (kids changing classes)? I think I answered really well and we had some great conversation. The principal said they had to make their decision today and that I would know either way by this afternoon.

Two hours later, the phone rang. Now in the time I left the interview until the call back, I was struggling with whether to accept the position or not; whether something closer to home, or more money was going to pop up as soon as I said yes. But after talking to my husband, we decided it would be a great opportunity and that I should just go for it. So, the phone rang and it was the principal. Immediately, she told me that I was one of their top two choices and that it was a really hard decision, but they chose the other candidate - ONLY because she had science experience and I didn't. She then went on to tell me how great my interview was and how impressed everyone was with me and that she really wants to hire me for something. I was still bummed, but she made it a little more bearable. She then said that during their discussion over the candidates, one of the teachers 'fessed up that she is interviewing for a librarian position and that her job may be available as early as next week! AND that this teacher teaches math and reading. SCORE! I really, really want to teach math, so I became excited and told the principal that I would love the opportunity if it becomes available. So I hope you will all join me in wishing Miss Jennifer the very best of luck on her librarian interview!