Elementary Teacher Interview Tips

Posted by Megan Sheakoski May 21, 2008

You’ve just received your Elementary Education Teaching Degree and are finally ready for your own classroom. The next step in the process of beginning your teaching career is to ace the school district interview. You know you can do a great job, now is the time to prove it to your future colleagues. Use the interview tips below to nail the perfect teaching position.

Research, Research, Research

Not doing your homework before an interview can lead to the district not realizing how well you may fit into their school family. Before you send out an application or cover letter, research school districts and schools with open positions. When answering interview questions you can refer to this information in your response.

Use Personal Examples

Depending on how the interview is set up you may not have the chance to show off your complete portfolio or highlight your best work. Draw on brief, personal anecdotes about your teaching experience in your interview answers. When appropriate use your portfolio as a visual aid to draw attention to your teaching skill and creativity.

Demonstrate Good Public Speaking

Every teacher needs to be an excellent communicator. Make eye contact with all of the interviewers and use a clear speaking voice. Show enthusiasm for your subject- remember, everyone loves a friendly first grade teacher!