GULFPORT, Miss. (WLOX) – On Saturday, aspiring teachers were given the opportunity to be hired on the spot at Gulfport School District’s job fair. The district recently announced they are hiring for all positions.

Dozens of current elementary, middle, and high school educators filling the halls were eager to add to the team, welcoming those new to the area or teaching in general.

“This fair is set up to make sure we can find qualified teachers because we’re looking for qualified teachers. The most important thing is if we find teachers today, I’ve got contracts, we’re going to hire them today,” says Assistant Superintendent Dr. Mike Tatum.

Tatum says about 40 spots are open between all GSD schools. Those range from administration, teaching, or support staff.

He explains there is a greater need in specific areas:

“Especially for our special needs students, and for English, math, science, and social studies.”

Teachers at Pass Road Elementary say the teacher-to-student ratio is around 1 to 25. More staff means more time to focus on a student’s individual needs.

ESL instructor Kendall Casey shares what qualities she hopes her new coworkers have.

“Someone who is outgoing, caring, kind,” she says. “And willing to really get in the classroom with our kids and grow with them, work with them, and experience what the joys are of being a teacher.”

“Rigor, relevance, and relationships — If they can build relationships with students, they are going to be a good teacher,” Tatum adds.

Kindergarten teacher Leslie Perez says no matter what school you work at, the district has a great sense of unity.

“Everyone in the GSD is like a family,” Perez says.

“We all really collaborate well within the different schools and it’s just great to know that we can lean on the different schools and instructional coaches that we have to help us succeed.”

All teaching positions require a valid state teaching license.

To view job openings and qualifications, click here

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