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Teacher Transfer Frequently Asked Questions
 

TEACHER VOLUNTARY TRANSFER PROCESS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

Who is eligible for the voluntary transfer process?

You are eligible if you are not on an improvement plan (or have documented performance problems or issues of misconduct) and meet one of the following criteria:

  • Currently tenured
  • Currently in your 3rd year of employment with Saint Paul Public Schools
  • Returning from a leave of absence
  • You are in a split teaching assignment, with multiple building locations
  • Wish to move from part-time to full-time or full-time to part-time

 

What is the process for requesting a voluntary transfer?

The voluntary teacher transfer process has changed with the recently ratified teacher contract.  Under the new process, teachers will no longer be required to submit their name and preferences for transfer on the Human Resources Web Site.  As part of the new process, the Human Resource Department will list classroom vacancies on the job openings web page.  Eligible teachers who wish to transfer, must submit a cover letter and updated resume for each posted job vacancy for which they wish to apply.

 

What is the timeline for the voluntary transfer process?

Beginning in early March, jobs will begin to be posted the Human Resources website.  Hiring through the voluntary transfer process will continue through the third week in June.

 

How do I view a listing of the vacancies?

Jobs will be posted on the Human Resource Web Site at http://hr.spps.org.

 

Am I guaranteed a transfer?

You are not guaranteed a transfer.  Sites will determine which candidates to select for vacancies.

 

Am I guaranteed an interview?

You are not guaranteed an interview.  Each site will determine whom to interview.  Sites that are interested in offering you an interview will contact you.

 

How do I know if I have an updated resume on file with Human Resources?

Application materials are kept on file in Human Resources for one year or until you are hired.  If you have not submitted an updated resume in the last year, you will need to submit a new one.

 

What can I expect once I have submitted my resume for a position?

Jobs will be posted for a specified period of time.  After the application deadline, Human Resources will review resumes and forward the resumes of eligible and qualified candidates to the school.  The school will then select candidates to interview.  If the principal does not contact you, they have chosen other candidates to interview.

 

I have not been on an interview for years.  What should I do to prepare?

Develop a list of your strengths, areas of interest and questions to ask the principal or site interview team. 

 

Are the offers made based on seniority?

No, offers for voluntary transfers are made based on the needs of the school.  The principal and site council will determine which teacher best fits the needs of the school.

 

How long do I have to decide to accept a transfer?

In general, you should provide an answer to the school within two days. If you require a longer time frame in which to make a decision, you should contact the Principal to discuss.

 

What happens if I reject a position?

You are not required to accept a position if offered one.  If you decide not to accept a position, you should notify the Principal of your decision.

 

I want to leave my current assignment.  How can I be assured of a transfer?

You can volunteer for the involuntary transfer process.  This will assure the transfer but not the location where you will be assigned.  To request to go on the involuntary list, you must provide written notification to the Human Resources Department by March 1, 2006.  If you have elected to go on the involuntary transfer list, you can also participate in the voluntary transfer process.

 

I have accepted an offer through the voluntary transfer process.  I have received another offer and would prefer this position.  Can I transfer again?

No, once a teacher accepts a voluntary transfer, the transfer is considered final and the teacher will not be eligible for another voluntary transfer in the same year.

 

I have additional questions, who can I contact?

Contact your Staffing Specialist in the Human Resources Department.   The main phone number for the Human Resources Department is 651-767-8200.