TakeMySoda

OVERVIEW

Hstorical sites as well as cultural and recreational opportunities abound for residents of Stafford County which is located only forty miles south of Washington, D.C. and fifty-five miles north of Richmond, VA. To our south are the popular vacation destinations of Virginia Beach and Colonial Williamsburg, and to the west lie the panoramic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Stafford’s rich history of over 330 years is evident in places like Ferry Farm, George Washington’s boyhood home, Chatham, an 18th century manor house, and Belmont, artist Gari Melcher’s estate and gallery. Because of its close proximity to the richness of historical Virginia, the cultural attributes of Washington, D.C., and the recreational opportunities of the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, Stafford has become one of the fastest growing counties in the state. It is a family-oriented suburban community with plenty of rural countryside. The school enrollment is projected to exceed 26,157 in the 2007-2008 school year.

Although the school division has experienced rapid growth, the county has maintained its commitment to educational excellence. Support received from the Board of Supervisors and the community have enabled the school division to maintain, improve, and expand school facilities, transportation offerings, and instructional programs. Commitment to an excellent student-teacher ratio has enhanced quality instruction and attention for our children. Significant technology advances ensure students have the opportunity to learn practical work skills in modern facilities.

PRELIMINARY INTERVIEWS

Preliminary interviews for teaching positions will be held in the Human Resources Office each Friday from April 4 through June 13, 2008. Please call the Human Resources Office at 540-658-6560 to schedule your appointment. A completed application must be on file prior to the interview.

Why Stafford County Public Schools?

• There are a lot of places you can find a job, but few places you can find a home.
• Stafford is conveniently located 40 miles south of Washington, D.C. and 55 miles north of Richmond, Virginia on the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers. The picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains are within a two hour drive to the west. Popular beaches are found within a short drive to the east.
• History plays an important role in the Stafford community. Stafford was established in 1664 and named for Stafford Borough, England. Many of the Civil War’s fiercest conflicts were fought in this area as evidenced by the famous Civil War Battlefields nearby.
• Stafford County is considered one of Virginia’s fastest growing locality. The  student enrollment for 2008-2009 is expected to exceed 26,500. Our eighth middle school is scheduled to open in Fall 2008. In addition, we hire approximately 300 teachers and support positions each year.
• Opportunities for advanced studies and educational growth are numerous. Tuition reimbursement is available for a variety of course work. Colleges and Universities in our area include the following:
  • Catholic University of America
  • Virginia Commonwealth University
  • University of Mary Washington
  • University of Mary Washington College of Graduate and Professional Studies
  • Marymount University
  • George Mason University
  • Georgetown University
  • University of Virginia
  • American University
  • University of Richmond
  • Howard University
  • Germanna Community College
  • Northern Virginia Community College
  • George Washington University
  • Virginia Union University

• The professional growth of our employees continues to be a priority. Under the direction of the Department of Instruction, staff development seminars are offered to address school-wide initiatives, e.g., technology, multicultural education, and curriculum strategies. Seminar offerings are numerous and may be utilized for Virginia licensure renewal credit.
• A Colleague And Mentor Program (C.A.M.P.) is offered for all beginning teachers. Through this program, our new teachers are provided a mentor, staff development opportunities, and ongoing support throughout their first year in our school division.
• Our extensive Wellness Program is also available for all employees and their families. The program encourages physical, emotional, and spiritual well being.
• The education of our children has long been a priority of the citizens and is viewed as a shared responsibility between the schools, parents, and the community. Parents are actively involved in school programs and work closely with teachers and staff. Ample local funding is provided to insure low pupil-teacher ratios and a varied selection of materials and supplies
• An annual Teacher Job Fair is held each year in March to recruit new teachers. Each candidate is interviewed by an administrator and teacher-recruiter. Display booths for each school and local organizations give participants an opportunity to ask specific questions about the school division and the community.

The Stafford County School Board does not unlawfully discriminate against any person on the basis of race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, or disability. This policy covers all programs, services, policies, and procedures of Stafford County Public Schools, including all educational programs, admission to such programs, activities, and employment. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator/Executive Director of Human Resources, Mr. Rick Fitzgerald, Stafford County Public Schools, 31 Stafford Avenue, Stafford, Virginia 22554. Phone: (540) 658-6560 Fax: (540)658-5970. Reasonable accommodation upon request.