The Florida Department of Education is inviting teacher candidates from around the country to attend this year’s statewide career fair to be held June 22 at the Tampa Convention Center.

Dubbed The Great Florida Teach-In, the event is a cornerstone in the FDOE’s campaign to attract about 20,000 classroom teachers in time to start the 2007-08 school year.

There is no charge to attend The Great Florida Teach-In; however, candidates must hold at least a bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited U.S. institution (or have an expected graduation date of no later than August 2007) or an equivalent degree from a foreign institution.

In addition, a candidate’s chances of being offered employment are increased for those who possess at least one of the following credentials:

- A valid Florida Educator’s Certificate (Professional or Temporary)

- A valid Standard Educator’s Certificate from a state other than Florida

- An Official Statement of Status of Eligibility issued by the Florida Bureau of Educator

Certification (Additional certification information, including information for applicants educated abroad, is available at www.fldoe.org/edcert)

Candidates will be interviewed by representatives of Florida school districts and charter schools. Many will receive immediate job offers.

Additional information and an online registration form for The Great Florida Teach-In is available at www.TeachinFlorida.com or by calling (850) 245-0435 or toll free at (800) 832-2435.