good for you!

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Home : 2005 : May : 11

good for you!
By Alicia

Congratulations, that's a step in the right direction! Even though it's an "informal meeting", make sure you put your best foot forward. First impressions are last impressions. That's great that they have the time to meet
with you (especially during this crazy time of year); that means they must be interested in you.
I think you should dress nice and comfortable. I wouldn't dress as if it were an interview, but you should still look professional. Ask them a lot of questions about their district:
How do you expect teachers to teach reading? Writing? Math?
How does your district include children with

special needs?

How do you expect teachers to involve parents in their child's education?

How do you expect teachers to keep parents informed?

When will you begin the hiring process for your teaching positions?

How do you support new teachers? Is there a mentor program?

You might want to tell them about yourself and your experiences too. Remember that they are busy, so keep an eye on the clock and stick to your scheduled time.

Maybe they can give you a little mock interview. Before I got my current job (and just before I sent out my applications last year) I called a principal I once knew but hadn't seen for awhile in the district I was planning to apply in. She agreed to meet with me. I brought my resume for her to look over, we made some changes to that, she gave me a mock interview and gave me some helpful hints for answering questions, and I told her a bit about what I had been up to. I had known her when I was a student in the district, and her school wasn't hiring, so our meeting was a bit more laid back. As I left she told me I could use her as a reference. That was great because she was a principal in the district and they talk a lot!

Anyway, it never hurts to take that extra step and put yourself out there. It shows initiative, interest, and commitment. All great qualities for a teacher!

Good luck!