More than 250 candidates attended the Johnston County Public Schools Teacher Job Fair on Saturday, April 22, at West Johnston High School up from last year’s fair.
School leaders anticipate the district will grow by 400 students next year, which is nearly the enrollment of an entire school, and personnel is needed.
Throughout the event applicants met with principals and human resource administrators to fill upcoming vacancies created by retirement, job transfers, and the demand for more teaching staff.
According to JCPS Superintendent Dr. Ross Renfrow, he was impressed with the quality of participants at the JCPS Job Fair as well as the renewed vigor and refreshing atmosphere of the fair.
“I have heard repeatedly from the participants that they are impressed with the warmth and welcoming attitude, the family atmosphere that they have experienced during their visit here today, That is due to our teachers, assistant principals and principals,” said Dr. Renfrow. “A great day. This is good for the Johnston County Public Schools.”
Chief Personnel Officer Brian Vetrano said there were a variety of participants. More than 330 candidates from 16 different states registered for the event, including some from Illinois, New Jersey, Utah and California.
“We are very pleased with the turnout today,” said Vetrano. “We strengthened our recruitment efforts this year in order for our principals to be able to hire the best individuals to support learning within the classroom.”
Alexander Lloyd, a candidate from Illinois, drove 12 hours to attend after learning about Johnston County Public Schools at a job fair in his home state. “Johnston County feels like home and it seems like a great area to come to live. I have heard great things about the school district.”
Donato Scudiro and Samantha Scudiro, father and daughter educators, traveled from New York for a 24 hour trip to visit the job fair. “North Carolina is on the cuff of technology and is actively changing education. Johnston County is a growing area and it is evident they are enthused about students and learning,” said Donato Scudiro. Samantha Scudiro, Donato’s daughter, stated, “The teachers are very friendly here. They seem willing to take you under their wing and work collaboratively.”
