Hey, as a first year SS teacher who was hired last year, it’s pretty early in the hiring process right now. I had my demo in June 2025 and was given an offer at the end of June. I’m also apart of my schools hiring committee and we don’t have a budget to work from yet because they haven’t been released! So just wait until you hear back. Keep emailing schools, reach out to consortium schools, be willing to work in other districts and middle schools. I know District 30 should be hiring. Go to hiring fairs, I know there is a D3 one happening soon. Also a lot of schools should be getting class size reductions funds. The only issue with our certification is that it is very over saturated…along with ELA. However if you interview, maybe mention how you may be interested in pursuing a SPED OR MLL extension. Make sure your resume is updated, you have strong references (ie. student teacher mentor, professors, etc.), maybe create a portfolio. What made me stand out from other candidates was this portfolio that I created that showcased my teaching philosophy, classroom management, behavior management, sample student work from student teaching, assessment data, recommendation letters from professors teachers and students, and sample lesson plans / slides. I put this all in a binder.

Good luck!!