Thanks for confirming my fears, Tawaki! You're right, I am wanting to move from private to public. I have over 10 years as a school social worker in public (CPS) prior to my 2 years in private. I have an LCSW. I get interviews now, which I couldn't even get those when I was in CPS, so that's good. I'm also involved in parent education with a local organization and am a member of an area crisis responder's group. I am at a pre-K-8, and that is the setting for most of my years. I worked in an alternative HS for one year. I have been interviewed for a range, mostly pre-k-8. I had a second interview at a public HS last year that I ultimately did not get.
HS is preferred but would like any public at this point.
It's so frustrating. I'm not hating where I am, but I miss public. Anyway, thanks for your insights and affirmation, even if it's confirming a problem!