Job Search Advice

Preparing for interviews

Getting a job is a job.

Common Interview questions and tips

The key to a good interview is preparation. Being ready helps you present yourself and your ideas in a clear, thoughtful and professional way. Being prepared shows. Your confidence goes up and your stress level goes down. When you are relaxed, the interviewer can get a better picture of not only your qualifications but also your authentic personality.

Potential Interview Questions:

• Can you tell us about yourself?

• Why did you decide to become a teacher?

• What is your teaching philosophy?

• What type of classroom management structure do you (or will you) implement?

• Will you use technology in the classroom and how have you used it before?

• Can you give me an example of when you've made a real difference in a child's life?

• How do you handle classroom discipline?

• How would you handle working with a difficult parent?

• Why do you want to work for our school district?

• How would you describe an effective principal?

• What do you do for fun outside of the classroom?

• How do you plan on contributing to the school community and student body?

• Where do you envision yourself in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years?

• What are your biggest challenges when it comes to teaching?

• Do you have any questions for us?

Always be prepared to ask questions.

Below are some examples. However, we recommend you take the time to think about questions that will help you determine if the opportunity is a right fit.

• How active are parents at this school?

• What kind of computer/technology resources are available at the school?

• Will the school be addressing any major issues or change this year?

• Is there a mentorship program available for new teachers?

• What is the next step in the hiring process?

Tips about the Interview:

• Study: Learn as much about the position, the school, and the district prior to the interview. Have an understanding of how the school works and any current events that may have happened.

• Practice: Ask your Ed Prep Program staff, peer teachers, mentors, anyone with professional experience to go through some interview questions with you.

• Use examples: Anytime you mention a character trait of yours or an experience, give enough detail to explain. Examples can come from in-class and out-of-class experience.

• Be positive: Don't put yourself down. Highlight how you've overcome any relevant challenges.

• Be confident: Feel like you are a qualified candidate and it will show.

• Ask questions: Always have thoughtful questions prepared to ask the interviewers. Make this an interactive process.

• Bring a portfolio: Include copies of your resume, cover letter, teaching certificate, sample lesson plans, samples of student work, recommendations. It should be organized, clean, and professional.

• Dress appropriately.

• Follow up with a thank you letter after the interview to everyone involved in the process.

Last Updated: January 20, 2023