I applied online and was called in for an interview about a month later. The first interview was with six people and consisted of a number of fairly simple questions. After the question portion, I was asked to spend 45 minutes creating a presentation to give to the panel. This portion went very well and I was asked back for an interview with one of the managers and the director. The second interview also went well and I was told soon after that my former managers had been called as references. They said it seemed like I would be offered the job. About a week and a half later, I was called by TEA and asked if they could call my current supervisors. I explained that I was uncomfortable with this since it could jeopardize my position with my school. I asked if there were a way to get a firm offer before calling. They told me I would only be considered if they could call my current bosses. I gave in as I wanted the job and had been through multiple stages. I notified my current bosses so as not to blindside them. They let me know when TEA called and told me that it seemed like I would very likely get the position. They asked that I please let them know as soon as possible if I would not be returning the following school year. More than a week later, I had still not heard back from TEA and sent an email to the manager I'd interviewed with twice. A day later I received a call from her saying she had "bad news," which was that the funding for the position had been eliminated and they would not be able to offer me a job. She told me to "please keep an eye out for future positions within the department and to apply again." Frankly, this is the most unprofessional experience I have ever had with a company. I know it's state government and that funding sometimes disappears. However, the department heads should have an idea of the possibility and AT THE VERY LEAST warn potential applicants before practically forcing their hand. Since this experience, my boss has been cold to me and it's just been awkward all around. While his actions may not be their fault, they should know that calling current supervisors if you cannot offer the job is very risky for the applicant.