I have my application out there, I have been to many a job fair, and I have a portfolio with cd that I have passed out. Well, I have tomorrow off to go school to school, just to hand out my portfolio. I plan to only go to the schools that have summer school open. Would this be a good idea? My plan is to just walk in and ask if I could leave something for the principal. No strings attached. Also, when do they normally start hiring for the next school year?
This is for my first year teaching. I am getting my certification thru an alternative program. And I am certified to teach generalist 4 - 8.
Thank you for your help! 
Re: Question for teachers....
Hey, I am not teaching anymore, but I have navigated this fun landmine twice as we moved states while I was teaching.
All of what you are saying sounds good. You also may want to check with school districts in your area to see if they have websites with job postings. I found my first job this way - I actually went into the school to turn in a resume/cover letter (just dropped it off with the secretary - make sure to make a good impression there, b/c they hold a lot of power!), then called back later to see if I could set up an apptment to interview for the open position. That position turned out to be filled, but one that was actually better for me had opened up at a neighboring school that had more enrolling students than they expected. The principals were friends and she referred me over there.
As far as when they start hiring, you may actually be on the late end now. I know a lot of principals that want to have everything lined up for the fall by the time the previous school year finishes. But, new positions open up all the time, so don't despair. My first year of teaching we moved to Houston after we graduated for my DH to start grad school, and I didn't find a job until August, 1 week before school started, and I was hard-core about applying everywhere I could think of all during the summer.
GL - hope this helps!
Thanks Texas!!
Most of the job fairs that I did were back in March/April/May. I also have several sites that I check each day for new positions. I did not think to call them once I had dropped off the portfolio. I have one that I was able to get to the actual principal last week that I will call in the morning. And thank you! Your info did help! I am trying not to get discouraged. I keep telling myself that I will find something. And luckily I have a boss who will work with me in regards to looking for a teaching position. As in time off and the knowledge that I am leaving.
I think its a great idea to go to schools now and get you name out there. In our school district the principals don't do much with the resumes, you have to go directly to the central office to submit your paperwork or submit it online. Best of luck with getting a job!
I had luck when I searched district websites for principals' email addresses. I would send them a quick note and attach my cover letter and resume. Good luck!