For the first time, the Hillsdale College K-12 program has implemented an application and screening process for schools interested in appearing at the annual classical education job fair, which will be on Feb. 2 from 12 to 6 p.m. in the Searle Center. 

The number of classical schools seeking out Hillsdale students has grown significantly over recent years. The K-12 committee reviewed almost 200 applications and chose 59 schools that best represent the values of Hillsdale College, according to Events Manager of Hillsdale K-12 Education Allison Wetzel.

The fair will provide students with connections in education and aid seniors in the search for teaching and administration employment. Students who attend can expect to learn about the values and curriculum of various K-12 schools and will be able to engage in individual conversations with teachers and administrators, according to Wetzel. 

Many students have found jobs through this event, and even students not searching for a job have found it to be a good networking opportunity, Wetzel said.

“All of the schools and students who attend have a common goal – working together to lead students toward moral and intellectual virtue,” Assistant Provost for K-12 Education Kathleen O’Toole said in an email. 

K-12 will also offer a pre-fair workshop on Jan. 31 to help students prepare. 

“Research the schools ahead of time, and ask specific questions about the location of the school, faculty, culture, and their mission,” O’Toole advised.

“Make sure you’re practically prepared, dress nicely, and have a resume ready to go,” Wetzel said. “Make sure that you’re ready to ask questions.”

Many of Hillsdale’s member schools will also be represented at the fair. 

“If you get a job at one of these schools, you’ll continue to have a connection with Hillsdale College after graduation, and Hillsdale professors may even do some of your teacher training,” O’Toole said. “Working at a Hillsdale member school is a way to continue to be part of Hillsdale College after you graduate, which is a helpful thing, especially while you are in your early years of teaching.”