Retired educators looking to return to the classroom will soon have a unique opportunity to do so in Fort Stockton.

The Fort Stockton Independent School District will host an educator job fair with in-person and virtual interview opportunities on Friday, April 29 starting at 1 p.m. at the district’s central office.

“As the Superintendent of Fort Stockton ISD, I believe that many retired educators still possess both the skill and desire to teach. Their years of experience and the wisdom they have to offer should be highly valued and respected,” FSISD Superintendent Dr. Gabriel Zamora said.

The superintendent explained that the district decided to host a job fair that is primarily for retired teachers because of the passing of Senate Bill 202 in 2021 – a law that shifted the financial burden of the Teacher Retirement System surcharges to school districts – and the need talented educators.

“Like most school districts, FSISD is fighting hard to acquire top talent,” Zamora noted. “Despite the challenges caused by SB 202, the FSISD Job Fair is proof that not only will we consider retired educators as applicants, we welcome them.”

Previously, retire/rehires willingly shared the cost of surcharges with school districts to secure jobs and double-dip work salary and retirement payments.

That is no longer the case with the SB 202 and in turn, districts will be inclined to shy away from retired educators Zamora explained.

“While most believe that the intent of Senate Bill 202 was benign; intent and residual effect are not synonymous. This bill may reduce opportunities for retirees to reenter the profession as districts struggle to keep up with operating costs and inflation,” Zamora said.

Retired educators from Fort Stockton and surrounding towns are encouraged to attend in person. Virtual appointments can be scheduled for anyone who uploads their resume via the FSISD’s 1-Minute “Quick Job App” and is unable to attend in person.

The superintendent added that the job fair is not exclusively for retired teachers despite being primarily for that segment of educators. New and current teachers are welcome to attend the event.

“New and current teachers interested in positions are also welcome,” he said.

Please scan the QR code with your smartphone camera or visit www.FSISD.net for more info.