Do this mean I got the job?

I applied for a position with a local school district office recently. After 2 interviews, their HR Director called me to say that I did not get the position, although it was very close. I thanked him, and told them that I hope the person they chose is able to give them what they need. The call ended amicably.

Two business days later, the same HR Director called two of my professional references to ask questions about me. And one of those references of mine had already been called by their office 2 weeks ago, just before my 2nd interview.

Why would the HR Director be checking my professional references AFTER he told me that I didn't get the position? I can think of only three possible reasons:

A. The HR Director is tying up his administrative loose ends, making sure that all professional references were verified before he "closes his file" on me.

B. The person they intended to hire did not accept the offer, and so now they're looking at me again.

C. There is a different position in the office for which I am being considered.

Can anyone think of any OTHER reason why the HR Director would be calling my references AFTER telling me that they chose someone else?

Does this mean I'm back in contention for the job? I personally have not yet heard again from the office, only my references have.

Thanks in advance!