In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to ace your teacher or leadership interview. From researching the school to asking impactful questions, these actionable tips will help you make a lasting impression and stand out as the top candidate.
1. Research the School
Before stepping into your interview, make sure you thoroughly research the school. Dig beyond the surface by identifying something unique about the school—perhaps it’s a Center for the Arts, has a robust reading program, or excels in athletics. Use this information to connect with the principal during your conversation.
For example, you might say: “I noticed your school’s success in advancing reading scores last year, and I’m excited about contributing to that initiative.” Highlighting these details shows you’ve done your homework and care about the school’s mission.
Pro Tip: Avoid mentioning areas where the school may struggle unless you’re framing it as a challenge you’re eager to help address.
2. Emphasize Reading in the Content Area
Every principal values educators who prioritize reading across subjects, even in areas like science or social studies. Be ready to discuss how you’ll integrate reading strategies into your content area.
Here are some examples:
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Incorporate reading from textbooks or articles in lessons.
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Encourage students to summarize, analyze, or reflect on what they’ve read.
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Collaborate with the school’s reading coach to adopt proven strategies.
Don’t overlook writing in your plans either. For example, scientists and historians rely heavily on reading and writing, making these skills essential to teach in those subjects. Share how you plan to embed these practices into your teaching.
3. Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of your interview, you’ll likely be asked: “Do you have any questions for us?” Don’t let this moment catch you off guard. Instead, ask meaningful questions that reflect your genuine interest in the position. A great example is:
“What does a highly effective educator look like to you?”
This question not only shows you’re eager to align with their vision but also provides insight into their expectations. Use their response as a guide for shaping your teaching style and priorities once hired.
Your teacher or leadership interview is your opportunity to showcase your skills, passion, and commitment to education. By researching the school, emphasizing reading in your content area, and asking thoughtful questions, you’ll demonstrate you’re the ideal candidate for the role. With preparation and confidence, you’ve got this!
If you’re looking to dive deeper into interview preparation, check out our online courses:
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Teacher Interview Course: This course covers common interview questions, classroom management strategies, lesson planning, and more.
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School Leadership Interview Course: Tailored for aspiring principals and assistant principals, this course provides practical guidance on how to excel in leadership interviews.
