Reason for leaving job - what should I say?

[dglvrk2]

Three years ago, I resigned from a school administrator job because the district was not going to renew my contract (resignation in liu of non-reelection). No reason for the intended non-reelection was given to me, except I wasn't a "good fit." (This also came out of nowhere, but that's another story....)

I've had two great jobs since then with fantastic reviews from my bosses. I left my previous job in good graces when I got my current job. My current job (teaching) is temporary. I knew this when I took the position. The job will not be in existence next year, so I'm looking for other jobs in my (fantastic) district.

On all applications, they ask for a "reason for leaving" previous places of employment. Of the job I resigned, I've said "resigned to seek work elsewhere." This is not untrue, as I could transparently apply for other jobs and take off work for interviews etc. However, should I be more honest? I don't think there's any record of the said district's plans not to reelect me. However, could the lack of full disclosure hurt me in any way? Ever?
Or am I being paranoid?

[mustardseed2007]

I think it's fine. I don't think they would ever say anything different. Other people on here know more about education but most places have policies of neutral employment references so I think you are more than safe with that explanation.

[supertrooper1]

I would leave it as that on the applications and then if they ask you in an interview, you could say that you resigned because your position was eliminated.

[ECB]

I think what you presently say is fine. If you were FIRED and they could find that out and you said "resigned", o.k. - that may be an issue. But outside of that, I don't think most people are looking at your reason for leaving in great detail.

[dglvrk2]

Thanks, everyone! I think I'm overthinking this.... talking about previous jobs to a perspective employer is a lot like talking to a kid about politics or sex: you should be honest when you answer their questions, but is it necessary to list *every* detail?

[erbear]

Jun 22, 2021 10:16:25 GMT -5 supertrooper1 said:

I would leave it as that on the applications and then if they ask you in an interview, you could say that you resigned because your position was eliminated.

That’s not true though - her position wasn’t eliminated, she was not renewed. If they follow up, they will find that she was lying by omission.

OP- I would just say resigned to seek other employment. When they ask at the interview, just say the school wasn’t a good fit for you or them. I wouldn’t follow up on that question - I’d connect the dots and assuming nothing else felt off, it would not eliminate you from my search.

[dglvrk2]

One more question: is "resigning to seek work elsewhere" lying by omission when I could disclose they were not going to renew my contract?

[erbear]

Jun 25, 2021 16:44:39 GMT -5 dglvrk2 said:

One more question: is "resigning to seek work elsewhere" lying by omission when I could disclose they were not going to renew my contract?

It is, but this doesn’t bother me.