With classrooms across the state facing teacher shortages, CEA’s second annual job fair brought certified educators and hiring managers together under one roof for a day of meaningful in-person connections and career opportunities.
Held with the goal of helping CEA Aspiring Educators find their first job and experienced teaching professionals find their next chapter, the May 3 event at Newington High School drew attendees from across the state seeking new beginnings.
“This job fair is an important networking event and provides a career-changing experience for so many,” said CEA Vice President Joslyn DeLancey. “We work hard to ensure our students have the best educators to help them thrive, and we are proud to do our part to address the teacher shortage in our state.”
Representatives from nearly two dozen school districts met with candidates eager to bring their experience and passion to new settings.
CEA Aspiring Educator Brandon Brush meets school district reps looking to fill positions.
CEA Aspiring Educator Brandon Brush, who hopes to have his own classroom this fall, has been participating in CEA AE online webinars to prepare himself.
“I’ve learned a lot that has helped me going into job interviews, and the CEA Job Fair has given me a chance to speak with different districts and see what’s available,” he said.
A number of experienced educators, including those in designated shortage areas, came to explore new options.
“I received an email from CEA and thought I would check it out,” said a special education teacher of 15 years.
After landing her first position at a job fair 25 years ago, a school social worker decided to try her luck again.
“Though I love my job, I have a very long commute,” she explained. “I saw the CEA email and thought I might see what openings exist closer to home.”
“We appreciate CEA supporting these events to help us get great teachers for our kids,” said Shepaug Valley School Principal Donald Schels, who noted that Regional School District 12 is seeking candidates for as many as seven open positions.
Gary Highsmith, superintendent of Hamden Public Schools, hired several candidates at last year’s fair. With eight or nine anticipated openings next school year, he was glad to be back.
“Almost all our positions are in special education,” he said, echoing a trend across the state. “The job fair allows us to have face-to-face meetings and find the right talent.”
Hamden was joined by district representatives from ACES, CREC, East Windsor, Enfield, Groton, Hartford, Meriden, Milford, New Britain, Newington, New London, Regional School District 12, Southington, Tolland, Torrington, and Windsor Locks.
Educators learn about employment opportunities throughout the state.
Laurie LePine, director of human resources in Groton, made a hire at last year’s fair and was eager to find new talent.
“The job fair gives us access to qualified professionals and is a great pipeline,” she said.
Three representatives from Milford Public Schools who also returned to CEA’s Job Fair recalled the success of last year’s event.
“We had such a great turnout of quality educators who stopped by, gave us their resumes, and told us a little about themselves, and we’re excited to be here again,” said Wendy Kopazna, director of human resources.
Colleagues Angela Intelisano, talent acquisition specialist, and Kim Vigil, associate director of talent management and development, agreed.
“We have 10 to 20 open positions and are here to meet candidates who might be able to fill them,” Intelisano said.
“Not only do we have a chance to speak to candidates but also conduct on-the-spot interviews,” Vigil added.
For more information about available certified teaching positions across the state, visit CEA’s job postings online.
