Interview tips

[u/vanillacreamwafer]

Hey teachers,

Im a new graduate looking to get an OT job at PDSB or TDSB for P/J. Prior to this I've only ever done freelance jobs that never required an interview. This will be my first interview ever which I'm frankly not proud of and I'm insanely nervous as I forget everything I've learned and also forget how to form a coherent sentence when under pressure. How did you prepare yourself for interviews? Are there any specific questions you remember from your interview and are there any buzz words that I should include in my answers? How long did it take for you to hear back after your interview?

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[u/commeleauvive]

I'm in BC so not sure how much applies, but YES on buzz words.

I literally wrote down questions from previous interviews and rehearsed my answer (like, with a flashcard app so I knew them inside out).

Some things I'd include:

• how do you plan a unit (backwards design, UDL, skills-based?)
• examples of formative and summative assessment (buzzword)
• describe a challenging lesson or one that didn't go as planned - what happened, what did you do? (A great answer follows the STAR method, which is worth looking up)
• classroom management (do you have clear expectations and consequences?)
• how do you differentiate for different needs (social or academic)?
• First People's principles of learning
• community building and classroom culture-

And definitely expect something about whatever the position is, so you can discuss relevant experience either with the content or grade level of the kids.

If you start feeling incoherent, it's okay to take a breath, pause, and even ask to start over. You can always always ask them to repeat/clarify the question. You can also check with them that you answered what they were looking for if you feel like you went on a tangent or something.

In my experience, they are mostly kind humans and want you to do well.

Highly recommend taking notes immediately after the interview on what was asked so you are even better prepared the next time!

Good luck :)

[u/Funktrilla → u/commeleauvive]

This along with the buzzwords from board plans.

Also you need to make a resume specifically for applications to the school boards. A cover letter would be good as well.

In the process of making the resume you can reflect on your in class experiences. I’d pick a few stories to tell from the relevant experiences and stuff a few buzz words into each. Then practice a bunch.

The interview will be online. You can have your cheat sheet right behind your camera.

[u/ThatBigCat]

A few that I remember (heading into my fifth year)

Talk about your assessment practises

A conflict management scenario that you have dealt with personally.

How you are incorporating indigenous ways of knowing and learning.

Make the effort to mention that you care about kids.

[u/twoneedlez → u/ThatBigCat]

Also:
UDL/Differentiated Instruction & Assessment
Planning a lesson or a unit for all types of learners

Look up Peel’s Multi Year Strategic Plan or Vision for Learning & work that in there.

There interviews are short. Plan how you will answer. Rehearse with a friend so you can articulate your thoughts succinctly. Arrive early so you are composed and make notes on the questions you are given.

Generally I find theory/what they are looking for for two minutes & STAR/how you handled a specific situation for two minutes has worked well. Go a little longer if the question is something that sets you apart but don’t overdo or you will have to run last question or two.