The application process for candidates can be a frustrating process considering the variance between what is expected from one school district to the next. While there are a number of school districts that require candidates to complete paper & pen applications, a growing number of districts require candidates to complete online applications. These online applications can be time-consuming endeavors that challenge the patience and test the desire of many candidates.
Candidates need to understand that online applications are often the first place school district administrators will turn to when openings occur in their particular school or school district. Therefore, it is imperative that candidates take online applications seriously and respond to questions thoroughly and appropriately.
Candidates that do not take the time and effort to complete online applications appropriately often submit poorly worded applications that include numerous capitalization, spelling & grammar errors. These applications are not taken seriously and often do not merit follow-up on the part of school district administrators. Some simple tips can help.
It can sometimes be helpful to type responses in a Word document or other word processing program, then cut & paste your response into the application. This can help reduce common errors that will reflect poorly on you and your chances of being selected for further consideration.
Pay special attention to online interviews. Some school districts will require candidates to complete online screening interviews as part of the application process. Candidates should be sure to take these seriously and respond to questions thoroughly. Candidates that give themselves ample time and a quiet place to work often perform better than those who move through the online interview too quickly.
Most school districts in the state of Illinois that use an online application system use General ASP. A nice feature for candidates is that once you complete your first online application with a district that uses General ASP, all subsequent applications with districts that use this system will be completed much faster. This is due to the fact that you as a candidate can download the information you completed with the first application. You can also upload other documents such as letters of recommendation, your resume, transcripts, etc....
Be sure to review your application prior to submission. Remember that you can always go back and make changes to your application at any time, but it is recommended that you complete and submit your application in an appropriate time frame as most school districts will only consider candidates who have completed the entire application process.
Dr. Barry M. Reilly
Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources
Bloomington Public Schools, District 87