5 Ways to Ace that Teacher Interview
1. Do your research:
Learn as much as you can about the community, the district, and the school. Visit in advance if you can. If not, use the Web: Check sites like SchoolMatters for information on public schools.
2. Anticipate the questions:
The trick to a successful interview is preparing your answers, say Jack Warner and Clyde Bryan, authors of Finding a Teaching Job. Expect questions about your strengths and weaknesses, classroom discipline, and management. Also “whys”: Why this school, this grade, this job?
3. Showcase your talents:
Keep your best skills and traits in mind as you answer each question. Volunteer information about your additional skills, such as coaching.
4. Network:
Connect with teachers you know, both those who are employed and those who are looking. Team up and do a practice interview or two!
5. Be positive:
Your enthusiasm and energy, and your honest interest in being part of a school’s community, mean the most of all.
