How Do I Convince Them I'll Take Less Pay So I Can Get My Pension?

Dear Career Experts, In December 2007, I was laid off from my high school teaching job after working in the same school district for nearly 30 years. While I was never truly given a reason, I suspect I had hit the top of the pay scale, and they were looking for ways to trim spending. However, I was only three years away from retirement and will lose my pension if I don’t complete those teaching hours. Since then, I have taken two part-time jobs – tutoring and substitute teaching – but at this rate, I’ll be working for the rest of my life to earn those hours. There are many schools in the area, and I’ve applied to so many positions, but not a single interview call this entire time. I’ve had my cover letter and résumé professionally reviewed, and I always follow-up on my job applications, but nothing seems to work. I suspect, because school districts are all strapped for cash, I’m being looked over because of my extensive experience. Meanwhile, it’s not about the money to me. I just want to finish so I can retire as I planned. What else can I do to at least land some interviews? Thank you in advance for all of your help. Our Twitter Advice Project (T.A.P.) is no longer an active campaign. To find an answer to the above question, please use the "Search" box in the right-hand column of this website.

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