When applying for your first teaching job

Question

... what do principles/ administrative staff look for when hiring? Approximately how many volunteer hours would I need to complete to make an impressive impact along with a phenomenal portfolio?

Answer 1

It really depends on the district and the school. I've been on many hiring committees and we look for:

1.  Someone who is a team player and works well with others and can disagree fairly and shows empathy to other views.

2.  Someone who knows their stuff and the current research. We look for somebody that shares our progressive views on education and has used the curriculum (not basals) that is considered best practices. Know the schools curriculum- do your research on the district and find out more! Don't apply to a place just because you need a job. Make sure it is a good fit for you also.

3. Someone that enjoys having parent volunteers and collaboration with other staff and the community.

4.  Someone that believes in positive discipline and making sure that every child is held accountable but is treated fairly and respectfully.

5.  Someone that is enthusiastic and willing to learn.

6.  Be professional and articulate. PRACTICE what you will say.  Be serious about your answers but also be personable.

7. Be on time for the interview.

An interview team will know that you are nervous and take that into consideration. Above all, be kind and confident especially when you are waiting. I'll tell you that one person didn't get hired because they snapped at the secretary.

As for volunteer hours... hmm.... Make sure you mention your experience with the age group or grade during the interview. Sometimes schools hire based on experience.

Answer 2

Experience:

- student teaching

  > different grade levels

  > different groupings: small group, whole class, 1:1

Knowledge of State Curriculum

- Academic Standards

- State Adopted Curricula

  > Language Arts

  > Mathematics

- pedagogy

  > delivery of instruction

  > pacing

  > checking for understanding

  > recursive teaching

- special population needs

  > English Learners

  > Special Needs students

- classroom management systems

It's quite a bit when you actually think about it. It is overwhelming at first, just focus on what you have done and do well- then build from there. Be honest when you are confronted with curricula, programs or others that you are unfamiliar with. It is always wise to throw the ball back in their court- ask what types of support are available to new teachers.

Good luck!

Answer 3

You should be energetic and very articulate. You should be able to explain why you want to teach in this particular school.  Do your homework; look up the school's website and talk about what they do that inspires you.  Have good, thoughtful questions about the school.

Be warm, be serious, talk about what motivates you and what you will bring to the school's team and to your grade level.  

Relax, be yourself, and remember that you have a lot to offer as a young teacher!

Answer 4

You'd need to be able to spell Principal correctly.

Answer 5

Another good thing to know is what kind of curriculum they use...for instance do they have whole literacy etc...  Definitely know your teaching philosophy and that will help you articulate what your class will be like.  Think about how you would have a class organized etc...