Careers in K - 12 Education

1. Writing résumés, cover letters, reference sheets
   • Consult the Education Employment Guide for instructions and examples
   • E-mail a draft copy of your job search materials to edresumes@niu.edu for a review and feedback
2. Preparing your self-managed credential file
   A credential file is a professional folder that students/alumni can establish. Many employers request a credential file during the hiring process. Your credential file may contain the following items:
   • Résumé
   • Three to five Reference Letters
   • NIU Transcript
   • Transcripts from other educational institutions attended
   • Student Teaching Evaluations (automatically forwarded to Career Services)
   • Reference page
   • Copies of Certifications
3. Practice interviews/interviewing
   • Consult the Education Employment Guide for sample questions that employers may ask and questions that you can ask employers
   • Schedule a practice interview with a principal, department chair, or a Career Services Counselor
4. Researching school districts
   • Go to the districts' Web sites (district links are listed on the Regional Office of Education Web sites for each area), and read the information thoroughly
   • Check the District Report Card
5. Locating openings and deciding where to apply
   • Consult the Education Employment Guide for a list of the Regional Offices of Education Web sites where jobs are listed for each section of the state
   • Register with Victor eRecruiting and upload/publish your resume so that it can be viewed by administrators
   • Consult the Education Employment Guide for factors to consider in your job search
6. Evaluating job offers
   • Obtain a copy of the district's salary schedule
   • Use the chart in the Education Employment Guide to compare job offers and make the choice that is best for you
7. Attending job fairs
   • Check this Web site for information on the Mid-America Educators' Job Fair and for notices of other job fairs specifically for educators