Excellent Insights for Employment in Education

Looking for your first teaching position?

Learn what Montana Hiring officials seek when selecting new teachers. A grant from the Northwest Association for Employment in Education funded a 2002 survey of 255 Montana school superintendents; 148 (58%) responded. In order of importance, here's what they say about hiring new teachers.

1. Letters of recommendation from school personnel.
2. Number of certifications held: Elem & Spec Ed, Early Childhood & Elem, etc.
3. Examples of teaching and classroom management skills.
4. Experience with specific programs used in the district.
5. Applicant already known in the district (student teacher, substitute, volunteer).

Which application processes are most important?

1. On-site interview.
2. Criminal background check.

What influences the decision to interview an applicant?

1. Excellence in application grammar, spelling, punctuation.
2. Letters of recommendation from those who have seen candidate teach.
3. Typed vs. un-typed application materials.
4. Previous employment experience.
5. Evaluation from cooperating teacher.

Which professional traits are preferred in a first-time teacher?

1. Ability to provide a positive emotional climate in the classroom.
2. Ability to motivate students.
3. Professional integrity.
4. Interpersonal skills (enthusiastic, likes working with children, caring).
5. Instructional effectiveness.
6. Knowledge of subject matter.

What are typical interview questions?

1. Classroom management skills.
2. "Real life" situations.
3. Knowledge of subject matter.
4. Candidate strengths.
5. Enthusiasm for teaching.

What about credential files?

An important part of the standard application procedure. 74% of superintendents prefer this file sent to the district by the Career Services office at the University.

Most (69%) prefer a confidential file (student cannot view the letters of recommendation); 19% have no preference and 12% prefer a non-confidential file.

Which personal traits are preferred in a first-time teacher?

1. Enjoys teaching children.
2. No criminal record.
3. Emotional stability.
4. Dependability.
5. Enthusiasm and works well with others.
6. Initiative.
7. Adaptability.
8. Promptness and flexibility.
9. Oral communication skills.
10. Patience.

How is academic preparation assessed?

Knowledge of subject matter and success in student teaching are key factors.

What special advice do you offer new teachers?

"Come early; stay late; volunteer to help out; ask questions and take advice. Observe."

"Truly care about what you're doing. It's the most important job in the world. Remember to love children before the curriculum."

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