#Ntchat Archive
New Teacher Chat was created to provide weekly mentoring and focus on the needs of new, new to the profession and pre-service teachers. The chat is supportive and practitioner focused.
Wednesday July 6, 2016
For the next hour my tweets are dedicated to talking about inteview tips for new/preservice teachers with everyone at .
Welcome to all! I'm the founder and moderator of New Teacher Chat . Join me for this time of learning and collaboration
To join the chat use Tweetdeck,Tweetchat, or other client with columns. Use the hashtag to join the convo!
We’re a small, but mighty chat...dedicated to being practitioner focused and supportive to new teachers! https://t.co/YdjDV3M4i6
Hello! My name is Kelly Raso and this upcoming school year will be my first year as a teacher
Welcome to ! So great to have to here! This is an exciting time for you, for sure!
Welcome to ! So great to have to here! This is an exciting time for you, for sure!
Excellent resource for new Ts, preservice Ts, and profs in colleges of Ed...! https://t.co/MGH4yQKKJS
We’re a small, but mighty chat...dedicated to being practitioner focused and supportive to new teachers! https://t.co/YdjDV3M4i6
Woot! Yes...that was a whirlwind of fun! Wish we would have had more time to chat. :)
Hey all. James here. Year 11 student from in Auckland, New Zealand. Ready to bring some to
Kathy, veteran T wanting to change positions 2 B near family
I just completed my 5th year of teaching, but upcoming will be first enrolling my own class (so kind of new?)
first time using tweetdeck!
Great! How nice to have you join us!
Will the questions and discussion be posted on Twitter
Yep! I actually shared them earlier too. So hang tight...they are coming. :)
Hi Margaret! Tweetdeck gives you an airplane view of the Twitterverse--see so much more with each glance.
Let's take a minute to introduce ourselves. Share who you are and where you’re from! Thanks
Margaret...all experience levels needed. We're here to support. I always leave w/new ideas & new friends!
Allison from La Quinta, CA. This will be my third year teaching, but I still feel new.
Hi all! My name is Kelly Raso. I will be a long term substitute teacher in Pittsburgh, PA this school year
22-year teacher from Cleveland. Publisher Hack Learning Series
Welcome and thanks so much for joining us tonight!
Woot-woot!! We have a celeb in the house! Writer and Journalist extraordinaire!! Welcome Mark!
Margaret here, 5 yr teacher from Surrey BC, STEAM program
I live in Kansas City (have taught in both MO & KS side of KC). After 20 yrs middle school sci/ss T I'm an Instr Coach at Turner HS!
Lisa D - Founder from So Cal. Radio Show Host, Consultant, blogger, speaker, author, Adjunct Prof & former principal.
Lisa D - Founder from So Cal. Radio Show Host, Consultant, blogger, speaker, author, Adjunct Prof & former principal.
Whoo-hoo! And an outstanding educator for sure! https://t.co/NEcMqFPdl4
I live in Kansas City (have taught in both MO & KS side of KC). After 20 yrs middle school sci/ss T I'm an Instr Coach at Turner HS!
Hello Mark Barnes! Have several Hack Learning books in my Kindle. On a reading binge!
James - founder of (twitter focusing on amplifying in education), blogger, speaker, writer
New Twitter chatters: format is Q1: “question here”. You replay with A1: "your response". Don't forget to include :)
Question 1 will be up on deck in 3,2,1
Howard 5th & 6th Math/Sci. Full Inclusion. NorCal
You are not alone! ! https://t.co/xheNdFp8Et
Hello Mark Barnes! Have several Hack Learning books in my Kindle. On a reading binge!
A1: Research the school district
Hi I'm Dawn. I teach K-5 science in Indy.
No worries! We will do our best to support you!!
A1: go online and read about the school - mission, goals, special programs, etc
A1: I familiarize myself as much as I can with the school culture. Looking at the mission statement is a good starting point.
Tasha Jefferson first grade from Oklahoma
You have to do your homework! Research the district & school for successes & noteworthy info.
A1: Unpack the "why" and "how". Why am I signing up for this job? How does this job relate to me? Make sure you have a purpose!
A1- ask Ts and Ps I know about the district
Welcome to ! So glad you took the time to join us!
Absolutley! SO important! !
Great to see you here, Ron! How are you and and fam? Such great advice!! https://t.co/HgU8rK0CS5
You have to do your homework! Research the district & school for successes & noteworthy info.
A1: Research as much information about the school and environment as possible. I always want to make sure that I will be a good fit
A1 Right before you walk in, you pray for the right words and God's will be done.
Love it! When given the chance, ask them to clarify/restate their mission & goals!
A1: Hmm... It's been 15 yrs. Ramp up my portfolio.
so important; is this somewhere I want to work?
Valerie Lewis supporting preservice & new Ts. Here from GA!
A1: Drive by the school if you know its for a specific one. If not drive around the dist schools. Get a feel for the community.
A1: When you become a teacher, you NEED to be ready to change the world and inspire your students.
It has been 9 for me. I'm revamping cover letters. https://t.co/o1nTOZF09w
A1: Hmm... It's been 15 yrs. Ramp up my portfolio.
Woot-woot!! Another EDU super star! Get to know . She is a brilliant, passionate educator! https://t.co/8TgJZ5fFlY
Valerie Lewis supporting preservice & new Ts. Here from GA!
A1 honing message about what you bring is more important. Why are you the best candidate?
If their first interview Q for you is, how do you break up a fight? RUN!! Run fast!! Run hard!!!
A1: Go into nearby businesses and ask they owners what they think of the school/district. They have a HUGE stake in it's success.
I did that before an interview https://t.co/DXdKMFPgAF
A1: Drive by the school if you know its for a specific one. If not drive around the dist schools. Get a feel for the community.
That's a great idea!! Freshen up the resume too!!
Valerie Lewis!! So inspired by our talk time together at . https://t.co/Hlz7LyqI9D
Valerie Lewis supporting preservice & new Ts. Here from GA!
I need some help with letter land any ideas?
My resume is too long but I do not know what to leave out https://t.co/PxeCog0hCv
That's a great idea!! Freshen up the resume too!!
...sonetimes you need to see the pulse of the neighborhood at night &weekends too.
Larissa, jumping in for a bit in ! A1: Research school district, website, FB page, twitter feed, anything to understand the school.
Yes!! I have some samples I can share after the chat!
I'm really hoping for a coaching position. Would love to share all my learning past 9 years
hadn't thought of FB page!
Always know your audience. Same when you teach! Use internet, Twitter, FB to learn as much as you can https://t.co/Nhtb9YcKwc
A1: Research as much information about the school and environment as possible. I always want to make sure that I will be a good fit
Perfect and so important!! https://t.co/uMYyjtKLnE
Larissa, jumping in for a bit in ! A1: Research school district, website, FB page, twitter feed, anything to understand the school.
Question __ will be up on deck in 30 secs. You are all sharing such great advice!!!
My amazing colleague, Larissa Spare! Happy to see you again after ! https://t.co/ndO4QHubuZ
Larissa, jumping in for a bit in ! A1: Research school district, website, FB page, twitter feed, anything to understand the school.
A1: Also look at the Mission and Vision of district and school. Helps gives you a pic of what they are about!
A1: getting to know the school by researching its goals, mission, clientele, programs and more! So your research :)
Go for it. Use Twitter to learn and network; attend any city face to face meetups.
A1: From interviewer's perspective, consider interview candidates with unique experiences/perspectives & check social media accts.
Q2 I always google 'sample teacher interview questions'
..there is a national site that helps with this functiin. Can't recall the name (betterschools)?
A2: I looked up sample interview questions and prepared to answer them.
A2 be sure to remind yourself of your teaching philosophy and what you believe about teaching/ learning
always think about the questions the or
A2: I look at the job description, and see what they expect from their teachers. Then I ask myself: What can I bring to this school?
make sure to always be yourself too
A2: always think about the important questions you will be asked and research common teacher questions
..bring some questions of your own to ask as they are just as lucky to have you part of the team.
A2: Went to an interview training session as a young teacher. The coach shared to practice answering Q's in front of a mirror. Wow!
A2: Reflect on your own ed philosophy, make sure to be true to who you are as an educator! Be true, be clear and be concise.
A2: I remember creating a list of Qs I thought wd be in interview, then writing bullet point answers & rehearsing A LOT.
before interviewing really get to know the school that your applying for. They'll ask how you can contribute.
...this is important and can be the key to your happiness or sanity.
Me too! I would practice in my car!
A2: I think it's important to examine/review my motives and edu philosophies and to know the school but not rehearse; be genuine.
Make sure FB and Twitter are positive as they will look you up
A2: When I started interviewing many years back, few vids on web. Now I wd DEF look for videos prepping me for teacher interviews.
Yes!! I did that too on 3x5 cards! https://t.co/UASalRzo7l
A2: I remember creating a list of Qs I thought wd be in interview, then writing bullet point answers & rehearsing A LOT.
A2: Also if you've been through interviews and notice a pattern emphasize those areas. That's how decided to get Masters in EdTech
A2: Write down questions you have about the school, the job, the culture within. Now ask yourself how you will transition in.
A2: spend less time preparing answers to broad q's and more time on specifics- successful strategies, technologies, etc.
...hi my dear. So glad we got to connect offline at ISTE and see your passion live and in living color.
Great idea! I need to add some to my YouTube channel. :)
A2-what do you bring that is special?? How can you emphasize it??
lol! You are way ahead of us...we will get there in a few.
..so true. Your digital footprint will speak volumes not only after you leave but perhaps before you arrive.
Question 3 will be up on deck in 30 secs. I want to be sure to get as much support to all as possible!
sometimes hard to remember when you really want/need the job...
Excellent point! Both of mine R educational except for a few family posts occasionally https://t.co/kwRATAmPbR
Make sure FB and Twitter are positive as they will look you up
Excellent point! Both of mine R educational except for a few family posts occasionally https://t.co/kwRATAmPbR
Make sure FB and Twitter are positive as they will look you up
A2 have real examples of what your classroom/ teaching looks like, not just buzz words
..very good. This is so important in finding a "good match" as it ultimately will impact your Ss.
yes!! You are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you
Be sure to have Qs of your own that you'd like answered during the interview! You are the TALENT! Own it! https://t.co/RIL52FD5jE
A2: Write down questions you have about the school, the job, the culture within. Now ask yourself how you will transition in.
A3: My posture isn't great so I focus on straightening up and opening up. I also have to try to control my voice, shaky when nervous
Always be specific with examples and strategies! Helps distinguish as one who doesn’t just know buzzwords. https://t.co/VnQzk6pcaV
A2: spend less time preparing answers to broad q's and more time on specifics- successful strategies, technologies, etc.
Hello all! I'm Lyndsay, a second year teacher moving from K to 4th from KY. Excited to be joining in!
A3: Ladies...don't play with your hair!! Men...don't start scratching your face! Practice keeping your hand away from your face. :)
A3: I am very aware not to cross my arms over my chest. it is a habit, but can be seen as negative or closed
A3: Firm handshakes, smile, eye contact, and do not slouch or fold arms across the chest. Be confident in you.
Advice for someone who has been in a leadership position at state level. https://t.co/knXGxHsvc7
A2 have real examples of what your classroom/ teaching looks like, not just buzz words
A3: I practice! I try to take a quick walk before an interview and take some deep breaths to get rid of the jitters!
A3: strong, confident handshake starts and ends your interview- no limp hands!
A3: I know I talk with my hands--in an interview I try to make this less noticeable. I try to use them for expression only
Welcome and thanks for joining us! We are on Q3: What do you do to focus on your body language for the interview?
A1: Know and clearly communicate personal strengths and philosophy. Focus on unique abilities/accomplishments.
I was given this advice from admin in my district. be real not buzzy :)
A3: I also have to try to remember to put out my right hand to shake, being left handed I always end up confusing people
..a great to show the power of technology and how you may implement it with Ss. You may open them to a new thing.
Q3: Make eye contact!! Address each person in the room when answering a question. Make your answers personal, not robotic.
A3: Make eye contact and smile. You want to look like you are excited!
HA! Awesome advice. I usually hold a pen in one hand and put my hand on a pad of paper with the other.
Yes....and smile while you're walking to focus around positivity. Power pose. Ya know!!
firm hand shake, straight posture, eye contact and smile. Look excited and confident.
Hard 2 find balance between bragging vs sharing expertise https://t.co/C2RtTrs0dc
A1: Know and clearly communicate personal strengths and philosophy. Focus on unique abilities/accomplishments.
..they should want or need you just as much because your skillset and passion speaks gor itself!
A3: Sit up straight in your chair. Show professionalism in your posture, gestures, and expressions.
sounds obvious, but be nice to everyone at interview site - secretary, custodians, teachers, interviewers. it all counts
you're selling yourself- sell it!!
===>>>Q4: How important do you think it is to Memorize the things you want to say, but stay conversational? https://t.co/XDfoK1ekdI
tweetdeck is great! so much easier to follow the chat thread!!!
Absolutely! Simply saying "HI!" can tell you about personalities in the building. Do I get a response? Is it friendly?
Principal told me one time- only one ring on each hand
Agreed! But I think women are more susceptible to being apologetic about strengths. Have to sell ourselves! https://t.co/GFAk1XBNwS
Hard 2 find balance between bragging vs sharing expertise https://t.co/C2RtTrs0dc
A1: Know and clearly communicate personal strengths and philosophy. Focus on unique abilities/accomplishments.
yes! These people talk to each other!!
yup, they do! and if they hire you, you will work with them all
A4. I don't think you should have things memorized. Being prepared for Q is better than memorizing a pat answer
A4: you don't want to sound like you're reciting a monologue but you do have to remember important details/ideas that you have
A4: Practice, practice, practice! Look in the mirror, use a family member. It will feel so much more natural- and easy.
A4: If you have internalized important philosophies or concepts, this is fine. Memorized "lines" and verbiage may seem inauthentic.
A2: I practice with peers or with a teacher mentor to go through questions. Then I rehearse my answers! https://t.co/dZxK009lQM
A4: Think it's important to have a few answers memorized. It can help you to feel more confident.
A4: Be prepared but be human! The best teachers build relationships and are flexible.
A4: I don't think memorizing things is the answer, you don't want to be a robot. Just keep key points in mind.
Exactly!! Great ideas... https://t.co/f787JHjWjL
A4: you don't want to sound like you're reciting a monologue but you do have to remember important details/ideas that you have
A4: I feel like knowing your "why" is the most important thing of all. Why you want to be a teacher--everything flows from there.
A4 Important, but keep in mind to be yourself. Don't sound like an infomercial. You are selling knowledge and experience.
Yes...I did this many times as well as for Principal interviews! https://t.co/A0xHHvNLGi
A4: Practice, practice, practice! Look in the mirror, use a family member. It will feel so much more natural- and easy.
A:4 Wow! Tough but very interesting Q! Have to think about that. Jumping in from Central FL. K-5 Math/Science coach.
A1: figure out where the interview is and pick a confident outfit to wear! Also, check out their website https://t.co/B2xpcG2NN4
Yep! I was just thinking this! If you are passionate and knowledgable it will show! https://t.co/G0okS6WuKw
A4: I feel like knowing your "why" is the most important thing of all. Why you want to be a teacher--everything flows from there.
. I am so thankful to have had my mock-interview with you and the crew! It was a blessing.
This will be one of my new prep strategies https://t.co/X221qI4To1
A4: Practice, practice, practice! Look in the mirror, use a family member. It will feel so much more natural- and easy.
Q4: my hubbie always practices with me when prepping for interview, says it helps
I try to speak how I'd want my female students to speak about themselves - with confidence. Living example https://t.co/8czYMpXsNb
Agreed! But I think women are more susceptible to being apologetic about strengths. Have to sell ourselves! https://t.co/GFAk1XBNwS
Hard 2 find balance between bragging vs sharing expertise https://t.co/C2RtTrs0dc
A1: Know and clearly communicate personal strengths and philosophy. Focus on unique abilities/accomplishments.
Oh yes!!! I remember that. What an awesome opportunity!
isn't it hard to memorize replies for Qs you don't know?
A4: Take a pad of paper and write 3-4 things about yourself you wish to empahsize. Work them into your answers.
A3: I try to focus on my posture, sitting with confidence. Also, not fidgeting with my jewelry! https://t.co/pfIP2dvKWC
It's amazing how much it helps. I went in blind for my 1st interview, the 2nd went so smoothly because of practice.
A4: One of the toughest ?s... "Tell me about yourself?" Have something set for that seemingly simple question.
It REALLY works!! Wear the outfit you are going to wear to the interview too while you parctice!
Yes! Your philosophy, strengths, or interests. Be prepared to sell yourself!!
So hard. I suggest sharing mostly sharing professional stuff, not too much personal. https://t.co/yIuOxFJjY9
A4: One of the toughest ?s... "Tell me about yourself?" Have something set for that seemingly simple question.
OK...quick! Q5: What kinds of presentation items do you think are important to bring to the interview? https://t.co/GwbzsaI7IA
A5: A professional portfolio (if you have one) would be awesome!
A4: I get nervous so the memorization gives me confidence but it's also a time to show your personality https://t.co/Loqwbvkt7d
===>>>Q4: How important do you think it is to Memorize the things you want to say, but stay conversational? https://t.co/XDfoK1ekdI
A5: photos of my students with makerspace projects (lots of smiling faces and engaged students) great artefact
A5: I always brought a binder full of all the paperwork the might need, and samples of expectations, classroom management, lessons
The whole clothes things is a nightmare for me! , want 2 look smart, not old, but not 22 either. https://t.co/DkXdRBqfiL
A1: figure out where the interview is and pick a confident outfit to wear! Also, check out their website https://t.co/B2xpcG2NN4
Good one! Answer the question, and then stop rambling, too. 😂 https://t.co/r8AuPg4hVA
A4: Practice, practice, practice! Look in the mirror, use a family member. It will feel so much more natural- and easy.
A5: Bring an online or actual portfolio in a binder, to the interview! I hired over 100 new t's and this was great to see.
A5: I think it is important to bring yourself and not too much else. Schools right now aren't necessarily looking for portfolios
A5 I have a portfolio with pics of past projects and things I've done
A5: Lesson plans, student examples are both good options to bring. Sometimes that can be a tie breaker.
A5: I might bring a device--Chromebook, iPad, etc. to a second interview to show what I use in my classroom
A5: A bio-sheet that's more personal than a resume, but still factual, a portfolio, a good attitude, and a big old smile!
