Some walked away with tentative job offers – and big smiles.
NUSD’s Classified Employee Job Fair was a big success Thursday (July 12), attracting more than 200 applicants for 41 non-teaching positions and numerous openings for substitutes. They brought resumes, references, and received interviews on the spot.
The most exemplary candidates were selected for second interviews or received job offers conditional on passing fingerprinting and background checks. Soon, they could be NUSD instructional assistants, secretaries, custodians, groundskeepers, food service personnel, bus drivers, behavioral specialists or other classified staff.
Assistant Supt. Angela Herrera, who oversees NUSD’s Human Resources Department, said the huge turnout will go a long way toward starting the school year fully staffed. She also was impressed with the quality of applicants and their passion for serving Natomas schools.
“A lot of these people have kids in our district,” she said. “They know our schools. They’re part of our community,” she said.
What drew them to NUSD’s job fair?
Here’s how some applicants answered that question:
· “I went to Natomas High School – I graduated in 2007 – and it kind of made a lasting impression on me.” Job sought: Instructional assistant or secretary.
· “I love kids. Every day is an opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life.” Job sought: Instructional Assistant or a “community position.”
· “I’m a Natomas resident and I love the idea of growing the community and being a part of that.” Job sought: Administrative position.
· “My personality is toward helping people. I want to work with children or families.” Job sought: Instructional Assistant, Behavioral Specialist, or Accounting Staff.
· One applicant said she currently works for a school district lacking advancement opportunities, so she hopes “to get a career in what I studied, child psychology.” Job sought: Behavioral specialist.
· “I’ve heard wonderful things about this district,” said an applicant from Fairfield, adding that two younger cousins graduated from Inderkum High School. “I also like the fact that it’s a nice area and I’m looking forward to moving here.”
For some of these candidates, the Job Fair marks the beginning of what could be a long affiliation with NUSD. We’re thrilled by the possibilities. Some of these folks may impact local students for many years to come, starting Aug. 8, the first day of classes for 2018-19.
