My fiance recently interviewed for a teaching position. Naturally, I am biased , but the whole process has me a bit concerned. She was one of three candidates, and it was her second time interviewing at this particular school. She has glowing recommendations, including from other teachers at the school, and substitute taught extensively in area schools this past spring, with many call-backs due to her work ethic.

Cut to the chase: she has yet to receive a rejection letter or call (a third candidate received his rejection letter on Monday), but we have learned that another candidate was offered the job. This candidate is a May graduate with no experience whatsoever (beside student teaching, of course), and she has stated to mutual friends that she is a bit embarrassed as she knows that she is less qualified than the other candidates, and has no idea why she was offered the job.

I hope that there is good cause for her selection; perhaps she has a special endorsement that we're unaware of, or a 2nd concentration that put her a cut-above. I don't want to jump to conclusions, but I find myself a bit frustrated, as the "winning" candidate happens to have an influential last name in our town.

Maybe (probably?) I am just being paranoid, but is it not reasonable to make inquiries to the principal and any other interviewers? I would think that a diplomatically-worded conversation might reveal the motives of those doing the hiring without hurting my fiance's chances should any other positions open. I am thinking something along the lines of "Thank you for your time. I am concerned that I may be lacking certain qualifications that your are seeking, and I would like to strengthen my resume and qualifications for future positions that may open. May I ask what qualities set the selected candidate above those of us who were not offered the position?"

Any input? Any other stories that I can pass along to my fiance so she won't feel quite so discouraged?

Thanks!

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