Ace the Teacher Interview: What to Expect and How to Succeed

Toni Marek -

Presenter: Diego Merino, Senior Recruitment Manager, Avenues: the World School

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Know Thyself

Fit and values

  • What do you most value in education, as an educator?
  • In what school environment do you thrive?
  • What supports do you need?

Strengths

  • Talents, skills, & knowledge best aligned with the job. Be prepared with specific examples for each.
  • What makes you flow?
  • How do you help students learn & grow?

Weaknesses

  • Authenticity is critically important.
  • Self-reflection required.
  • Examples should be specific.

Show Results

Describe

  • What did you accomplish & why does it matter?
  • How is the school/classroom/student different because of you?

On resume

  • Describe the accomplishment; quantify when possible.

In cover letter

  • Explain 2-3 accomplishments highly relevant to the specific role.

In interview

  • Use 'PAR' framework (see below).

Problem – Action - Result ('PAR') Framework

Problem

  • Describe the situation.

Action

  • What action you took, and why.
  • Use this to illuminate your thought process.

Result

  • Describe the impact of your action: what changed, why it’s significant, and how you know.

... and practice!

  • Practice with a peer and structure your thoughts.

No Experience, No Problem

Prior teaching experience

  • Use examples primarily from your teaching.

No prior teaching experience

  • Use examples from paid positions (best), and internships, volunteering, academic work.
  • If the example is not teaching-related, be explicit about how it applies to the role and question being asked.

School Fit

Mission, values, and culture

  • What does the school believe?

Do research

  • Website, job description, online reviews, professors, other teachers, etc.

Interview the interviewers

  • Have thoughtful questions ready to help assess fit: current challenges, near-term direction, professional development, teacher support.

Other Tips

Cultivate mentors (who will tell you the truth)

askamanager.org (advice on workplace issues)

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