The Shopper
What districts do you work with?
Are there certain districts you are most interested in? Those you are not?
So do I get paid on holidays and breaks?
Sure, I can go back to XYZ district. I have worked there before.
I just moved to Chicago and have already applied for my PEL.
Did you have the option to stay longer? Do you have references from your most current contracts?
I made $75.00 an hour in my last job. I will work with you if you can get that for me.
Tell me about that last job. When did you leave and for what reason?
Can I be hired directly if I like my assignment?
Are you looking for a more permanent fit at this time? What other jobs are you pursuing? How much do you know about contracting?
I'm working with a few different agencies, who are you again?
Tell me, what is important to you in an agency partner?
I worked for Onward last year and had a great experience!
Can we get an updated resume?
I am only interested in virtual assignments.
Are you currently working virtually? (If no) Did you have the option to return to your former contract virtually? (If yes) Are you looking for additional hours to supplement your current caseload? Do you have any experience seeking virtual contracts this early in the summer? What has been your experience?
I have been in my job for a couple of years and just looking to see what else is out there.
What are your wish list items? What is important to you in your next role? Is this the first time you have looked? Has anything changed in your current job?
I applied to a few districts already but haven't heard anything.
I'm going with the first agency that brings me an offer.
Before we dig into our current openings, tell me what you have seen so far? Have you been interviewing? Have you been presented any other oppty's yet?
I retired a few years ago and am bored. I would prefer a shorter term contract but am open to hearing what you have.
What if we are able to propose one semester at a time to our client/district? Could that possibly work?
I am licensed in 10 states and have had many interviews already. The first to offer will get me.
That's impressive! How long have you been looking? How long has it been since your last contract ended? Do you have any top contenders at this time? Would you mind sharing? We certainly do not want to step on your toes.
I am open to any state! I am willing to apply for the licensure.
Have you looked into "X" state's licensure requirements already? Where are you in the process?
I have been told that I am worth at least $60.00 an hour since schools really need therapists.
(Empathize!). You are absolutely right that schools need therapists and many right now. Have you considered that these higher pay rates that you are hearing will also come with higher responsibility? How comfortable are you working on your own with a full caseload? What sort of support do you need at this stage of your career?
I had a hard time working within the hours on my last contract and ended up not being paid for a lot of my work.
Tell me what kind of communication did you have with your former agency? Did you feel you could address this with them? What sort of support did you receive from the district or your agency?
I really need benefits. Do you cover me all year?
Yes! For our teachers and therapists who finish out a school year and are committed to working with Onward again in the next school year, we offer continuation of your benefits.
My last agency ended my contract early and didn't share why.
(Empathize!). I am sorry you did not receive feedback. (Differentiate) Onward Education finds it very important to share any feedback good or constructive to help you along in your career path. Were you able to secure references or make an impression on someone at this last contract that we could talk with to learn more about your day to day responsibilities?
I can leave right away for the right job and the right money.
Are you bound by any notices?
I have not had a lot of experience with IEPs but know what they are.
Tell me about your documentation systems and progress notes you have made in your hospital/clinic/etc. Did you also work with school age patients or have access to their school therapists or special education teacher?
I will only work with mild/moderate 2nd graders, I will not do personal hygiene, I will not work with elopers, and I want to work close to home.
(Epathize!). I understand you have very specific qualifications. Has this made it difficult for you to find the right job so far? Have you interviewed much? what are you hearing from the schools you have talked to? If I could find one of those qualifications for you, which one is most important?
I am friends with Hannah. She works for you at Westwood.
It's been a few years since I did this kind of work but I am interested in getting back into it.
During this time, did you maintain your CEUs and licensure to practice/teach? If no, what steps would you need to take to reinstate these licenses or certifications?