Asking the Right Questions at Your Interview

Jill Purdy Director of Graduate Education Department/Associate Professor, Cedar Crest College, Pennsylvania

Prepping for an interview can be exciting and a bit nerve-racking. What should you wear? What questions will the interviewers ask? How do I best show that I am a good fit? These are important components of your preparation. However, the questions you ask the potential employer are just as important. Quality questions can demonstrate your interest and knowledge of the organization.

With the current need for teachers, there is the likely possibility you will have more than one offer in your future. Keep in mind that you need to take a teaching position that best fits you. The questions you ask can help you determine the appropriate fit.

One important question is about the mentor program at the school. As a first-year teacher, you will meet many challenges from school policies, classroom management, student success, working with parents, and meeting administrative expectations. A mentor program can help the new teacher wade through this new water.

ASK: What does your new teacher mentor program look like? How will I be supported in my first few years of teaching?

Another question that is recommended is about the culture of the school and district. One way to tackle this question is to already have explored the school website. Questions about culture show that you have done research on the school and you have a commitment to teaching diverse students.

ASK: I noted on your website that there was a cultural activity recently. Is this a reflection of the school's commitment to a diverse community? In my examination of the population, I saw that there is a large LatinX population. How do you meet the needs of these students?

Another area of questioning is more specific to the classroom and teaching. This inquiry, again, shows that you have knowledge of instruction.

ASK: What is the average class size? What technology is in place to assist my instruction? Do the students have access to technology? What reading series do you use?

Further engaging yourself in the school community is important for all future teachers. This may be working with the parent association, coaching a sport, publishing the school newspaper, and promoting community events. What do you do if they do not ask you about this? Ask them.

ASK: I am really interested in coaching in the future. Are there opportunities available? OR What types of events can I get involved with at your school?

It is important to realize interviewers will expect you to have questions. Prepare your questions in advance. Be sure to demonstrate your interest and knowledge of the school and its community. Asking the right questions is a great way to continue to showcase yourself as well as determine if that is the teaching job for you.

Reference https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/questions-to-askyour-interviewer-in-a-teacher-interview

32 Questions To Ask Your Interviewer in a Teacher Interview. (2022, May 24).