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Home : 2008 : Sep : 2
Advice on Job Interview for HeadStart
By Ane1e119
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Hi, I worked within a HeadStart program for nine years in Brooklyn, N.Y., prior to that I was involved in my son's HeadStart program in Manhattan as the Grievance Chairperson, the By-laws Chairperson, and eventually the Community Representive once my son moved on to Kindergarten. Depending on what state you are in the Director or the Education Director will interview you. Look onto their website, and read everything there is to know about that 'unique' program. Be sure to have a few questions of your own during the interview such as; what is the class size (adult-to-child ratio), the discipline policy, what is the Curriculum they follow, and and whatever you do never ask what the salary is until it seems they are ready to tell you. Trust me you will know when it is that time. A good interview will lead to another interview, and they may ask you to meet one parent from what is called, the Delegate Agency Policy Committee. At this time you are close to landing the job. Having said this, it let's you know that the most important thing you need to be aware of is that Parental Involvement is extremely valued in HeadStart. The administrative staff recommends a teacher to the D.A.P.C., then the D.A.P.C. has a discussion regarding candidates, afterwards the Director makes a final decision whether to hire. You might even be asked to come in and do a mini-lesson in the class of their choice (it will probably be the classroom you are interviewing for, but they might not tell you). This is the time when you pull out your favorite Early Childhood storybook, a transition song, and you will be observed to see how you handle discipline. You will be asked how you would handle certain situations, so be prepared to answer in detail if necessary. The most important thing is that children are never to be ignored, teachers should always get down to the child's level, and you must take time to get to know them as individual's. Some programs are accredited so find out if this one is. Even so, look into what are developmentally appropriate practices in Early Childhood (NAEYC). NAEYC details the national standard which many programs follow. Interviews are all about your level of confidence. If you have had previous teaching experience most people will say bring a portfolio and that's cool, but you can also bring a copy of a yearbook or a scrapbook. Bring something you can talk about (like a show and tell). Be animated. Be passionate about what you have done in the past or are interested in doing within their program if given the chance. Hope this helps. I just logged on this morning.
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