Had a similar experience but they were upfront about the situation.

They said the position was filled but wanted me to apply for another position, same grade level.

The other position was Special Needs, same grade level. They said if I applied they would hire me, no additional interview needed, just a “phone call.” I’d just need to take a SpEd test within the school year.

Sounds like you may be in a similar position. They want to hire you but there may be a catch... I’m hoping that’s not the case!

Many schools often hire off of politics, who knows someone or donates. If you don’t fall into that category, you may be “second choice.”
You may be more qualified but funding and politics unfortunately play a big role in getting hired