Milwaukee Public Schools looks to fill 700 positions



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Calling all teachers!! The Milwaukee Public School system held a massive recruiting event this morning in hopes to fill 700 positions. They are looking to fill the gap for teachers and paraprofessional by fall.

More than a thousand hopefuls filled Vincent High School eager to be part of the Milwaukee Public School System. “We’ve been advertising. Milwaukee Public Schools are looking for up to 700 teachers,” said Dr. Karen Jackson. She attributes the large number of open positions to a wave of retirements and resignations.

School officials put out a nationwide call and folks like Shane Kennelly were thankful for the opportunity. Kennelly said, “I’m from Chicago and there is nothing but fires, fires, fires, so out here everyone is hiring it’s a great opportunity. The jobs are here, you just got to get them.”

Recent UWM graduate Sandra Wendlandt made sure she came prepared and had her dream job scoped out. “The last few weeks I have been getting my resume together and recommendations. I’m just excited to be here. I did research and had a few MPS schools that I got to. It’s very crowded here the lines are growing,” said Wendlandt.

Despite the long lines each applicant got a one on one with the school principal or representative. Some of the folks actually got hired on the spot. “We will be able to offer you an early contract or letter of intent if you are qualified to teach here,” added Jackson.

The school system recently raised its starting salary which is also great incentive. Jackson said, “We set it at $41,000 which makes us very competitive with our suburban schools. It makes us competitive with major city schools and also fair with prices of cost of living in Milwaukee.” Jackson believes events like this help lure the best and brightest candidates and is confident  they'll make a big impact in student achievement.

Some of the new hires will be in place as early as next week. If you missed Saturday’s event, there is still time to apply.