Questions

Q: I am a current MCS teacher on an interim contract, do I need to re-apply for 2010-11?

Yes.  Interim teachers' positions end at the end of the school year.  Therefore teachers teaching on an interim contract must apply for new positions for 2010-11, if they applied before January 4, 2010.  Teach Memphis and Memphis City Schools implemented a new application and tracking system after that date that all non-permanent teachers must submit.

Q: How long does the application process for certified teachers take?

The application for certified teachers is in three parts:  eligibility screening, profile review and a phone interview.  The time it takes for an applicant to complete each section (submission of initial application and submission of the teacher profile) varies, but once submitted, we work to respond to applicants within two weeks of each step of the application process.  Also part of the approval process is the final review, which reviews your file for required documentation to ensure that you are eligible to enter the classroom.  This includes review of official transcripts, Praxis scores or other proof of HQ status and licensure.  Until we have completed documentation, we can place you into the New Teacher Pool even if you have succeeded in all the other steps in the application process.  You may not interview with principals for positions until your file has been approved by MCS Human Resources and your are notified of placement into the New Teacher Pool.

Q: Why can’t I apply directly to schools for a position?

Because of the number of applicants applying to the system each year, and in order to ensure that all applicants are pre-screened for eligibility, certification and quality, Memphis City Schools requires applicants to submit an application to the Office of Strategic Teacher Recruitment and Staffing through the Teach Memphis website.  STARS pre-screens applicants and reviews applications to admit them into the New Teacher Pool and works with principals and hiring teams as well as applicants to identify the best candidates for openings at individual schools to ensure strong and lasting matches that offer the best chance for improving student achievement.  Applicants are not eligible to be hired for positions until they are placed into the New Teacher Pool.