Interview Questions - Part 1

❓ What is my philosophy of teaching?

My philosophy is to create a safe, nurturing learning environment using techniques that will motivate my students. The learning environment should capture children's interests and provide collaborative opportunities through learner-centered lessons. Activities should be TEKS-based, and brain-based strategies should be used to enable students to make connections to their learning. Classroom management should consist of rules and procedures that encourage blended techniques for authentic, meaningful tasks. Inquiry-based activities will enable my students to become producers of new knowledge and become masters of higher-level, goal-oriented tasks.

❓ How do I envision my classroom to look?

Safe, warm, inviting - such as incorporating a lamp for softer lighting, comfortable reading areas, organized learning centers, student work displays, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes students feel at home and ready to learn.

❓ How do I feel about mainstreaming special education students?

All children should have equal opportunities in my classroom, with appropriate curriculum modifications. I believe in inclusive education and will work closely with special education staff to ensure each student receives the accommodations and support they need to succeed.

❓ How would I deal with a child who did not want to participate in class activities?

I would take a progressive approach:

Talk and ask questions to draw him/her into participating
Move closer to the student and repeat the above
Talk to him/her privately to understand any concerns
Communicate with parents and counselors if the behavior continues
Recognize there is possibly a reason the child is shutting down and work to address the underlying issue

❓ What do I think will be the hardest part of my first year of teaching?

Hardest: Learning the school district policies and following all the local/state/national guidelines while balancing curriculum demands and classroom management as a new teacher.

Easiest: Enjoying seeing improvement as my children grow educationally and building relationships with my students.

❓ What would I do about behavior problems?

I would follow the district/school discipline code of conduct policies. When a child misbehaves, it is important to move closer to the student and make eye contact - sometimes just a shake of the head (no) stops the behavior. If that did not work, I would try to draw them into the discussion or activity with questions. If that did not work, I would talk privately with them. After that, involve parents, counselors, office, etc. - a step at a time. And of course, whatever the school discipline policy states will be followed specifically.

❓ Tell me what your lesson plans would say? Look like? Consist of?

My lesson plans would include:

TEKS standards alignment
Clear objectives with assessments that match how content was taught
Guided and independent student involvement
Essential questions that drive learning
Critical and creative thinking activities addressing various levels of Bloom's Taxonomy
Differentiation strategies for students who need modified curriculum
Any other district/school required components

❓ Why become a teacher?

I want to shape the future by making a positive impact on young lives. Teaching is a challenging career that allows me to help children reach their full potential and become lifelong learners. I'm passionate about education and believe every child deserves a dedicated, caring teacher who believes in them.

❓ Tell me about your alternative certification program.

It is structured by long-time educators that know first-hand how to engage us in learner-centered activities. They will support me through classes and mentoring, and are located in Houston, so they will be available to principals should they be needed. Even though I will be certified in a year to year and a half, they will support me through mentoring and resources for up to three years.

Our textbook is Classroom Instruction that Works: Researched-based Strategies for Increasing Student Achievement by Robert J. Marzano. The book includes the following research-based strategies: Identifying Similarities and Differences, Summarizing and Note Taking, Reinforcing Effort and Providing Recognition, Homework and Practice, Nonlinguistic Representations, Cooperative Learning, Setting Objectives and Providing Feedback, Generating and Testing Hypotheses, Cues, Questions, and Advance Organizers.

❓ Tell me about yourself?

Talk about your education, interest in teaching, and include specific skills and experiences that you would bring to the classroom. Highlight relevant background, volunteer work with children, unique talents or expertise, and what makes you passionate about becoming an educator. Keep it professional, concise, and focused on why you're a great fit for teaching.