In response to the shortage of educational professionals in Washington state, ESD 112 and 9 local districts partnered in a “Take Root” in Southwest Washington Job Fair on August 2. 91 attendees signed-in for the event where school districts were on-site to recruit new employees. Participating districts were: Battle Ground, Castle Rock, Children Northwest, ESD 112, La Center, Longview, Ridgefield, Vancouver, Washougal, and Woodland

Districts were recruiting for a variety of positions including teachers, paraeducators, substitute teachers, bus drivers, school nurses, school psychologists, occupational therapists and speech and language pathologists.

Representatives from school districts and ESD 112 shared information and assisted potential employees in preparing to work in a school setting. Staff answered questions about certification and other requirements and offered on-site fingerprinting services. “The fair offers a one-stop opportunity for potential employees to take the next step in their career in education,” said Assistant Human Resources Director Melissa Kreuder.

This was the third Take Root Job Fair held in partnership with regional school districts. Past fairs have seen applicants hired on the spot to begin or grow their career in education.