1. What is the most commonly asked question during an interview?
What is your classroom management style? As a recruiter, our principals are interested in how you plan to manage your classroom and if it fits into their schools’ existing model/s, and also if you have additional techniques you have learned through student teaching.
2. So, Tell Me About Yourself.
This question is to learn directly about you as a teacher. Think of this question as “So Tell Me About Yourself as it relates to teaching.” This helps narrow down the information you provide and tailor it specifically to the experiences and skills that you have gained that is relevant to teaching.
3. What stands out on a resume?
Information that shows how a student has gained additional experience outside of the required student teaching. We like to see that students really have an interest in working with kids and we can see this by additional experience, whether it’s tutoring, summer camps, after-school programs, volunteering or being a nanny for families in your community. Also, be very descriptive when explaining your duties for jobs listed; try to avoid “short” statements such as “Taught English.” Instead, “Taught English curriculum for K-6 by developing creative lesson plans utilizing district guidelines and unique materials.”
4. Do I really need a cover letter?
Yes, a cover letter gives you an opportunity to expand on qualifications that you have as it relates to teaching that otherwise you were unable to list or explain in detail on your resume. Utilize the cover letter to discuss your passion for teaching.
5. What are your professional strengths and weaknesses?
Please avoid saying communication!!! This particular question can be negative and can cause you to become extremely negative about your weaknesses. Rephrase your response to this question by saying “Areas that I need to improve............” This gives you an opportunity to discuss areas that may be professional development or technology improvements that would advance you professionally in the future, but will not affect your ability to be a valuable asset to the school district currently.
Remember to utilize your resources on campus and in the community to learn directly from professionals in the field!!! NETWORK!!!!!
Rosalyn S. Smith, Career Advisor
University of North Texas Career Center