The coronavirus has forced DeKalb County School District officials to think outside the box as they seek to continue filling positions as people are told to quarantine to reduce the disease’s spread.

Beginning March 23, the district is hosting a virtual job fair for certified candidates, hoping to fill positions for certified professionals.

“The virtual fair is a strategy the district is utilizing to ensure staffing continues to fill approximately 300 teacher vacancies for the 2020-2021 school year,” said Linda Woodard, the district’s interim chief human resources officer.

In early March, more than 50 teacher vacancies remained, including some special education teaching positions.

According to a flyer for the event, candidates should place their level of interest and subject area in the subject line of an email sent to dekalbvirtualhires@dekalbschoolsga.org, and apply through the district's applicant tracking portal.

After a screening process, managers will conduct interviews through virtual platforms and vetted candidates will then be sent to principals for consideration.