First Year Teacher Archives - The Present Teacher

The Ultimate First Year Teacher Classroom Checklist

Congratulations on starting your first year as a teacher! As you prepare for the school year ahead, it’s important to have a checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a successful classroom. From classroom supplies to lesson planning, this ultimate first year teacher classroom checklist will help you stay organized and prepared.

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Set up your classroom layout.

One of the first items of the first year teacher classroom checklist is to set up your classroom layout.

Before the school year begins, it’s important to plan out your classroom layout. In fact, I would argue that before you even start picking out a theme or purchase ANYTHING, figure out the flow of your classroom to minimize the chance of making unnecessary purchases.

Consider the flow of traffic, the placement of desks and tables, and the location of important items such as the whiteboard and storage areas. Some areas you may want to consider are:

Whole Group Area
Classroom Library
Line Up Area
Independent Work Area
Small Group Area
Student Resource Area

Make sure to leave enough space for students to move around and for you to move freely around the classroom. Once you have a plan in place, start setting up your classroom and arranging furniture accordingly. After you take inventory of what you already have and the flow of your classroom, it’s a good idea to stock up on essential items.

Which brings me to my next point…

Stock up on essential supplies.

Another important item on the First Year teacher classroom checklist is to stock up on essential supplies. As a first year teacher, it’s important to have all the necessary supplies to ensure a successful school year.

After you take inventory on what your classroom already has (some classrooms have supplies already in them) or what your district will provide, it’s important to stock up on all the essential day to day supplies you will be using. Make sure to stock up on essentials such as pencils, pens, markers, paper, notebooks, folders, and binders.

You may also want to consider purchasing classroom decorations, bulletin board materials, and organizational tools such as bins and trays. Don’t forget to also have a first aid kit and cleaning supplies on hand for any unexpected situations. By having all the necessary supplies, you’ll be able to focus on teaching and creating a positive learning environment for your students.

Create a classroom management plan.

Arguably the number one thing you want to do on the ultimate first year teacher classroom checklist is to figure out your classroom management plan.

One of the most important things you can do as a first year teacher is to create a classroom management plan. This plan should outline your expectations for behavior, consequences for misbehavior, and rewards for positive behavior. It’s important to communicate this plan to your students and their parents at the beginning of the school year.

By having a clear and consistent management plan, you’ll be able to create a positive and productive learning environment for your students. Which is why it’s number three on the Ultimate First Year Teacher Classroom Checklist.

Plan your curriculum and lesson plans.

One of the next steps on the First Year Teacher Classroom Checklist is to plan out your curriculum and lesson plans.

As a first year teacher, it’s important to have a clear plan for what you’ll be teaching throughout the year. And let’s be honest, lesson planning can be a tedious task if you let it. That’s why many teachers including Veteran teachers use the summer to get ahead of lesson planning.

Start by reviewing your school’s curriculum and standards, and then create a detailed plan for each unit or lesson. Consider incorporating a variety of teaching methods and activities to keep your students engaged and motivated. Don’t forget to also plan for assessments and evaluations to measure your students’ progress and adjust your teaching as needed. By having a well-planned curriculum and lesson plans, you’ll be able to provide your students with a structured and effective learning experience.

Establish communication with parents and guardians.

One of the most important aspects of being a successful teacher is establishing open communication with parents and guardians. Which is why it definitely needed to be included in the first year teacher classroom checklist.

This can help you build a strong relationship with them and ensure that they are involved in their child’s education. Consider sending out a welcome letter or email at the beginning of the school year, and schedule regular parent-teacher conferences to discuss their child’s progress. I personally like to call all of my families the week before school to introduce myself, especially if you don’t have a parent night.

You can also use online tools such as a class website or email newsletter to keep parents informed about upcoming events and assignments. By keeping parents involved, you can create a supportive learning environment that benefits both you and your students.

One of the best mindsets you can have with family communication is “we work as a team.”

Overall

All in all, there are several items you should be completing from the Ultimate First Year Teacher Classroom Checklist. These items include:

Classroom layout
Stock up on essential supplies
Create a classroom management plan
Get ahead of your curriculum and lesson plans
Decide and incorporate early and consistent family communication

Here’s the thing, I know you probably have a million questions about teaching. So if you want to learn more, check out the Ultimate First Year Checklist where I walk you through all of the things you should be doing to make your first year of teaching a success.

As always, we are stronger together!

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Categories: First Year Teacher

The Top 7 New Teacher Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

Let’s be honest, there are so many new teacher myths going around these days. And the worst part is, many of us don’t even realize they are myths until later…. Much much later!

In this article, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths and provide you with the truth about what to expect as a new teacher.

Did you know all 7 of these were myths?

P.S. If you are a new teacher and want help setting up your classroom, download this Ultimate First Year Teacher Checklist!

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Myth: You have to be perfect from day one.

Let’s be honest, this is a new teacher myth not only society places on us, but we tend to place on ourselves. This is a common myth that can cause a lot of unnecessary stress for first year teachers.

The truth is, no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes, especially when starting a new job. It’s important to give yourself grace and remember that teaching is a learning process. Seek guidance from experienced teachers, reflect on your lessons, and make adjustments as needed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, because that’s the best way you will learn!

Your students will appreciate your effort and dedication, even if everything doesn’t go perfectly from day one. So don’t believe this new teacher myth for one second!

Myth: You have to be strict to earn respect.

A common new teacher myth you might hear is “Don’t smile until January.” This is a common misconception among new teachers, but it’s simply not true.

While it’s important to establish boundaries and expectations in the classroom, being overly strict can actually hinder your ability to build positive relationships with your students. Respect is earned through mutual trust and understanding, not fear.

Instead, focus on creating a safe and supportive learning environment, and your students will naturally respect you as their teacher.

Myth: You have to be an expert in every subject.

Another common new teacher is that you have to be an expert to be a good teacher. The truth is, no one is an expert in every subject and it’s okay to ask for help or do some extra research to prepare for a lesson.

Additionally, many schools have resources available such as curriculum guides and lesson plans to help teachers plan and teach their lessons effectively. Don’t let the fear of not knowing everything hold you back from being a great teacher.

Myth: You have to do everything on your own.

As a first year teacher, it’s easy to feel like you have to do everything on your own. However, this is simply not true. There are many resources available to new teachers, including mentorship programs, professional development opportunities, and support from colleagues.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or guidance when you need it. Remember, teaching is a collaborative profession and everyone benefits when we work together. So don’t let this new teacher myth get in your way of being the teacher you were meant to be.

Myth: You have to sacrifice your personal life.

I’m not sure how many times I have heard this new teacher myth but it’s simply not true. In fact, if I were to be completely transparent with you, I believed this myth myself until year 2.

This is a common myth that can discourage many potential teachers from pursuing a career in education. While teaching can be a demanding job, it’s important to remember that you still have a life outside of the classroom. It’s important to prioritize self-care and make time for hobbies and activities that bring you joy.

Additionally, many schools offer a work-life balance and encourage their teachers to take time off when needed. Don’t let the new teacher myth of sacrificing your personal life hold you back from pursuing your passion for teaching.

Myth: You have to work 24/7.

Again, a new teacher myth I believed myself, this is a common myth that can be discouraging for new teachers. While it’s true that the first few years can be challenging as you adjust to the demands of the job, it doesn’t mean that they have to be horrible.

With the right support, resources, and mindset, you can have a successful and fulfilling experience as a new teacher. Don’t let this myth have you grinding your entire first year. You might just miss making those important memories… like I did!

Myth: Your first couple of years are going to be horrible.

I’m going to say it louder for the people in the back… YOUR FIRST COUPLE YEARS OF TEACHING DOES NOT HAVE TO BE DIFFICULT! Just because other teachers had a hard first couple of years, doesn’t mean you have to. In fact, that’s one of the reason The Present Teacher began. I help new teachers learn from my mistakes so their first couple of years can be the best years of their life!

While it’s true that the first few years can be challenging as you adjust to the demands of the job, it doesn’t mean that they have to be horrible. With the right support, resources, and strategies, you can have a successful and fulfilling experience as a new teacher. You can have an amazing first year of teaching.

In Summary

Overall, there are several new teacher myths that definitely put a damper on being a new teacher. These new teacher myths include:

You have to be perfect from day one
You have to be strict to earn respect
You have to be an expert in every subject
You have to do everything on your own
You have to work 24/7
Your first couple of years are going to be horrible

All in all, there are so many new teacher myths out there that can really get in the way of you making an impact in the education world. Don’t let these myths stop you from being the teacher you were meant to become!

P.S. Don’t forget to download the Free Ultimate First Year Teacher Checklist!

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Categories: First Year Teacher

The Secret

Now whether you have to answer 30 interview questions in 20 minutes or not, answering teacher interview questions can be very intimidating.

In fact you might be feeling like:

You want to make a good impression and stand out from the other candidates but you secretly hate talking about yourself.
You are absolutely terrified you are going to say something wrong OR WORSE freeze up completely.
You are struggling to find the time to prepare for your interview.

If you can relate to any of these first off, don’t worry, I felt the exact same way when I last interviewed. But also there’s a secret method I use to answer interview questions that make me feel confident and I want to share that with you.

And that is the following steps:

Restate (Restate the question to give you some think time)
Experience (Relate the question to an experience you had to build credibility)
Mission and values (Relate your answer to the mission and values of the schools)
It Factor (Answer the question using your “it Factor or what makes you stand out)

To demonstrate how to answer teacher interview questions using this method I compiled a list of the top 10 teacher interview questions and how to answer them to help you feel confident and prepared.

So grab that cup of coffee (chai for me please!) and let’s get started!

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What inspired you to become a teacher?

This is a common question in teacher interviews and it’s important to have a thoughtful and genuine answer prepared. You might talk about a teacher who inspired you when you were younger, a personal experience that sparked your interest in education, or a desire to make a positive impact on young people’s lives. Whatever your answer, be sure to convey WHY your passionate about teaching and your commitment to helping students succeed.

My example would be something like:

“One of the reasons I am excited to be a teacher relates a lot to this story of when my brother was 5 years old. He had just entered kindergarten and was learning to tie his shoes. Well being the big sister I am, I sat there and helped him learn to tie his shoes. It was in that moment that my little brother tied his shoe for the first time and I saw that “light” in his eyes. That moment of pride is what I fell in love with. I am dedicated to making sure all students (myself included) become passionate about learning and being life-long learners. I love showing students the love of learning.”

Confidently prepare for your next interview in a single weekend with the Teacher Interview Workshop.

How do you differentiate instruction to meet the needs of all students?

Another common teacher interview question I have seen a lot. Differentiating instruction is a crucial aspect of being an effective teacher. In order to meet the needs of all students, it’s important to understand their individual strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.

One way to differentiate instruction is to use a variety of teaching strategies and materials, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and technology. It’s also important to provide opportunities for students to work in small groups or one-on-one with the teacher. By tailoring instruction to meet the needs of each student, you can help them reach their full potential and achieve academic success.

My example would include a story about how my brother and I had different learning styles and that growing up I learned the importance of incorporating that in everything you do. There for I have a particular passion for incorporating different learning styles and student choice during lessons.

How do you handle classroom management and discipline?

Another common teacher interview question you might get is something around classroom management. Classroom management and discipline are important aspects of being a teacher. It’s important to have a clear set of rules and expectations for behavior in the classroom, and to consistently enforce those rules.

As an example, when a student misbehaves, it’s important to address the behavior calmly and respectfully, and to work with the student to find a solution. It’s also important to communicate with parents and other teachers to ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to classroom management and discipline. Use this question to highlight your classroom management plan.

For instance, I would talk about how my first year of teaching I learned that consistency in a classroom management is key. Therefore here are the different stages of my plan (Insert plan here).

Having your classroom management plan thought out ahead of time will help you be consistent if they decide to give you another question about it.

How do you incorporate technology into your lessons?

To be honest, this has become a more popular teacher interview question as of late. Incorporating technology into lessons is becoming increasingly important in today’s classrooms. As a teacher, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest technology and find ways to integrate it into your lessons.

For instance, this could include using educational apps, online resources, or interactive whiteboards. It’s also important to ensure that all students have access to the technology and that it’s being used in a way that enhances their learning experience.

For instance, I would talk about a certain class I took in college where I learned some of my favorite resources for technology and have incorporated them since. I might even emphasize some of the success my students have had with these resources.

How do you assess student learning and adjust instruction accordingly?

Utilizing assessments to drive instruction is another common teacher interview question you might get. As a teacher, it’s important to regularly assess student learning to ensure that they are understanding the material and making progress. This can be done through a variety of methods, such as quizzes, tests, projects, and class discussions.

Once you have assessed student learning, it’s important to adjust your instruction accordingly. This could mean re-teaching certain concepts, providing additional resources or support, or modifying your teaching approach to better meet the needs of your students.

In response to this question, I would speak about a specific lesson where I used a pre assessment, 3 formative assessments, and a summative or formal assessment at the end to drive instruction. I would then expand on how I refer back to those assessments to gauge if I need to adjust or reteach a part of my lesson before moving on.

Can you tell us about your teaching experience?

This is a common question in teacher interviews, and it’s important to be prepared with a clear and concise answer. Start by highlighting your relevant teaching experience, including the grade levels and subjects you have taught.

Also, be sure to mention any special certifications or training you have received, as well as any notable achievements or successes in your teaching career. Emphasize your passion for teaching and your commitment to helping students succeed.

Similarly to my answer to the first question, I would talk about a story of when my students thrived and then what grade levels I have taught and how I have been consistently passionate about instilling lifelong learners for future generations.

How do you effectively communicate with families?

One of this administration really wants to see is your ability to work as a team with your families. That’s why how you effectively communicate with families is another common teacher interview question.

As you answer this question, talk about instances where you have worked alongside families. Also don’t forget to reiterate why you are passionate about working with families in the academic setting.

One way to answer this would be to restate the question, and then I would talk about how I started communicating with my families on ClassDojo during the pandemic. I would expand on how I was passionate that all my students and FAMILIES felt seen, heard, understood, valued and supported no matter what was going on.

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

This question is often asked in teacher interviews to gauge a candidate’s long-term goals and aspirations. As a teacher, it’s important to have a clear vision for your professional development and growth.

For instance, you might discuss your desire to take on leadership roles within the school or district, pursue advanced degrees or certifications, or explore new teaching methods and technologies. It’s also important to emphasize your commitment to ongoing learning and improvement, and your dedication to supporting student success in the years to come.

When I got asked this question, I personally wanted to convey my dedication to the District and spoke of finding a District that I felt aligned with so that I would be proud to have my future children attend the district. This is a great way to emphasize your commitment to a district you align with and that you are serious in finding that alignment.

If you have a student who is not following directions in class, what do you do?

This teacher interview question is designed to assess your classroom management skills and your ability to handle difficult situations with students. Your answer should demonstrate your understanding of the importance of clear expectations and consistent consequences, as well as your ability to communicate effectively with students and their families.

Much like the previous classroom management question, you might discuss strategies such as positive reinforcement, redirection, and individualized behavior plans, as well as the importance of building positive relationships with all students in your classroom. It’s also important to emphasize your commitment to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

In this particular case I would walk them through my classroom management plan and even speak of a scenario where I had experienced this with a student and how I solved it. Always lean into the questions you already answered for support.

Can you give an example of a successful lesson you’ve taught?

This teacher interview question is designed to assess your teaching skills and your ability to plan and deliver effective lessons. Your answer should demonstrate your understanding of the importance of clear learning objectives, engaging instructional strategies, and effective assessment practices.

For example, you might discuss a lesson that you designed and implemented, highlighting the specific learning objectives, instructional strategies, and assessment methods that you used. It’s also important to emphasize the positive outcomes of the lesson, such as increased student engagement, improved student understanding, or higher student achievement.

In this scenario I would refer back to a lesson plan I brought and expand how the experience was for myself and my students. I would highlight how I utilized assessments to drive instruction and differentiation to ensure mastery of the skill.

To Wrap it All Up

Overall there are several ways you can answer teacher interview questions but I personally recommend answering with the following:

Restate
Experience/Story
Mission and values
It Factor

And if you want more help preparing for your next interview, checkout the Teacher Interview Workshop!

Inside this workshop you’ll walk away with:

The confidence to stand out from other candidates with your “it factor”
All of your Interview Assets set up and ready to go
Systems in place to flawlessly execute your interview like a pro
Leverage your takeaways to perfect your interview process

PLUS it’s $10 off through email and Podcast only! So make sure to grab your spot now so you can confidently prepare for your upcoming interview with everything set up and ready to go!

Can’t wait to see you inside!

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Categories: First Year Teacher, New Teachers

The Ultimate Guide to What to Bring to a Teacher Interview

Knowing what to bring to a teacher interview can feel overwhelming. But having a checklist of what to bring can help ease your stress.

That’s what I wish I had before I had to prepare for a mini lesson an hour before my interview.

True story! I had just flown into New Mexico from Oregon and had forgotten some of the materials for my mini lessons for my interview.

So what did I do?!

Yep… I redid all of the materials I left in Oregon in the car during the 1 hour drive while my mother drove me.

Lucky me, I made the materials in time and got offered the job.

The point is, having a checklist would have saved me A LOT of stress. So here are a list of things to bring to a teacher interview (so you don’t forget like I did).

Don’t have time to read this? Download the Ultimate Teacher Interview Guide where I send you a checklist of everything you need to bring with you to your interview.

OR get a step by step process to confidently preparing to land your dream job in a single weekend with the Teacher Interview Workshop!

From important documents to professional attire, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to impress your potential employer and land that teaching job.

Listen to the Podcast:

Extra copies of your resume and cover letter.

One of the things you definitely want to bring to a teacher interview are copies of your resume and newsletter. Notice that I definitely said COPIES and not just one.

It’s always a good idea to bring extra copies of your resume and cover letter to a teacher interview. You never know how many people are going to be at your interview, or who might drop in without you knowing.

This shows that you are prepared and organized, and it also allows you to give a copy to each interviewer if there are multiple people conducting the interview. Make sure your resume and cover letter are up-to-date and tailored to the specific teaching position you are applying for.

P.S. Make sure to include the District or School Motto in your cover letter!

Teaching portfolio with lesson plans and student work samples.

Another item to consider bringing to your teacher interview is a teaching portfolio. This can include lesson plans, student work samples, and any other materials that showcase your teaching skills and experience.

A teaching portfolio can help you stand out from other candidates and demonstrate your ability to plan and deliver effective lessons. Just make sure to only include materials that are relevant to the position you are applying for and that you have permission to share any student work samples.

Have some stories and experiences planned ahead of time that are relevant to your portfolio. That way when someone asks you an interview question, you can refer back to your portfolio as an example.

References and contact information.

One important item that I always recommend to bring to your teacher interview is a list of references and their contact information. This should include at least three professional references, such as former supervisors or colleagues who can speak to your teaching abilities and work ethic.

Make sure to ask for their permission before including them on your list and provide their current contact information. This can show the interviewer that you have a strong network of support and can provide additional insight into your qualifications and character.

Professional attire and grooming.

In addition to references, it’s important to dress professionally for your teacher interview. This means wearing business attire, such as a suit or dress pants and a blouse or button-down shirt. Make sure your clothing is clean, pressed, and fits well.

Avoid wearing anything too flashy or revealing. Additionally, make sure your grooming is on point. This includes having clean hair, trimmed nails, and minimal makeup or jewelry. You want to present yourself as polished and put-together to make a good impression on your potential employer.

Want a step by step process to confidently preparing for your next interview?

Learn more about the Teacher Interview Workshop: a step by step system to confidently preparing to land your dream job in a single weekend!

Questions you want to ask the interviewer.

One important item to bring to a teacher interview is a list of questions you want to ask the interviewer. This shows that you are interested in the position and have done your research.

Some questions to consider asking include:

What is the school’s approach to discipline?
How does the school support professional development for teachers?
What is the next step in the hiring process?

Asking thoughtful questions can also help you determine if the school is a good fit for you.

Thank you cards for the interview.

While not necessarily something to bring to the teacher interview itself, it’s always a good idea to have thank you cards ready to send after the interview. This shows your appreciation for the interviewer’s time and consideration, and can help keep you top of mind as they make their hiring decision.

Make sure to personalize each card and mention specific things you discussed during the interview. Sending a thank you card can also help you stand out among other candidates who may not take this extra step.

Paper to write down any notes.

Paper is another important thing to bring to a teacher interview. It’s always a good idea to bring a notebook or notepad to your teacher interview to jot down any important information or questions you may have.

This can also show the interviewer that you are organized and prepared. You can use this notebook to write down the names of the interviewers, any important dates or deadlines, and any questions you may have about the position or the school.

Just make sure to ask for permission before taking any notes during the interview.

Mini lesson materials and lesson plan.

Another important item to bring to a teacher interview is a sample lesson plan and any materials you may need to teach a mini lesson. This can demonstrate your teaching skills and give the interviewer a better idea of how you would approach teaching in their classroom.

Make sure to choose a lesson that aligns with the grade level and subject area of the position you are applying for. And don’t forget to bring any necessary materials (like I did cough cough), such as handouts or visual aids, to make your lesson engaging and interactive.

Sample lesson plans.

Bringing a sample lesson plan to a teacher interview can be a great way to showcase your teaching skills and demonstrate your ability to plan and execute effective lessons. Make sure to choose a lesson that aligns with the grade level and subject area of the position you are applying for, and bring any necessary materials to make your lesson engaging and interactive.

This can give the interviewer a better idea of how you would approach teaching in their classroom and set you apart from other candidates.

In Summary

Overall there are several important items to bring to a teacher interview.

These include:

Extra copies of your resume and cover letter

Teaching portfolio with lessons plans and student work samples

References and contact information

Professional attire

Questions to ask the interviewer

Thank you cards for the interview

Paper to write down notes

Mini lesson materials and lesson plan

Sample lesson plans

If you want all of the items you should bring to a teacher interview in one place, download the Ultimate Teacher Interview Guide!

Want to have a step by step process to preparing for your next interview? I want to formally invite you to the Teacher Interview Workshop. A 1 hour workshop that walks you through everything you need to know how to confidently stand out from the crowd during your next interview.

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Categories: First Year Teacher, New Teachers

Ace Your Next Teacher Interview: How to Prepare For Your Teacher Interview Like a Pro

Let’s be honest, preparing for a teacher interview can be nerve-wracking. And if you are anything like me. you might be asking questions like:

How do I prepare for my teacher interview?
What teacher interview questions should I practice?
What should I bring to my teacher interview?
What are the top tips for teacher interviews?

These are all questions that I asked myself after graduating with my M.Ed from Eastern Oregon University. I scrolled the internet for hours… I even asked my parents for tips!

But here’s the thing, you don’t need to scroll the internet for hours on how to prepare for your teacher interview like I did.

With the right approach, you can feel confident and ready to impress. From researching the school to practicing your answers, this guide will help you prepare for your teacher interview and stand out as the best candidate for the job.

Listen to the podcast:

Research the School and District.

Before your teacher interview, it’s important to research the school and district you’re applying to. This will not only help you understand the school’s culture and values, but it will also show the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested in the position.

Look up the school’s website, read their mission statement, and check out any recent news or events. I recommend jotting down the district’s statement so you can include it in places like your cover letter and even your answers to your interview questions.

You can also research the district’s demographics, student population, and academic performance. This information will help you tailor your answers to fit the school’s needs and show that you’re a good fit for the position. One of the best websites to find out more about your district is niche.com.

Prepare Responses to Common Interview Questions.

One of the best ways to prepare for your teacher interview is to anticipate the questions you’ll be asked and prepare thoughtful, well-crafted responses.

Common interview questions for teachers include:

“What inspired you to become a teacher?”
“How do you differentiate instruction for diverse learners?”
“How do you handle classroom management issues?”

Practice your responses with a friend or family member, and make sure to highlight your strengths and experiences that align with the school’s needs. Remember to also prepare questions to ask the interviewer, such as “What is the school’s approach to professional development?” or “What are the school’s goals for the upcoming year?” This shows that you’re invested in the school’s success and interested in the position.

Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy and Experience.

During your teacher interview, it’s important to showcase your teaching philosophy and experience. Be prepared to discuss your approach to teaching and how it aligns with the school’s mission and values.

Share specific examples of how you have implemented your philosophy in the classroom and the positive impact it has had on your students. Additionally, highlight your relevant teaching experience, including any certifications or specialized training you have received.

This will demonstrate your expertise and qualifications for the position. Download The Ultimate Teaching Guide to find out more on how to prepare for your teacher interview by brainstorming your teaching philosophy.

Bring Examples of Your Work and Lesson Plans.

One way to impress during your teacher interview is to bring examples of your work and lesson plans. This can include student work samples, lesson plans, and assessments you have created.

By showcasing your work, you can demonstrate your teaching style and approach, as well as your ability to create engaging and effective lessons. Additionally, it shows that you are prepared and organized, which are important qualities for any teacher.

Be sure to explain the context and goals of each example you bring, and how it relates to the position you are applying for.

Dress Professionally and Arrive Early.

It may seem obvious, but dressing professionally and arriving early are two important steps to making a good impression during your teacher interview. Dressing professionally shows that you take the interview seriously and are prepared to represent the school in a positive way.

Finding professional attire on a student or teacher budget can be difficult. That’s why I recommend you check out your local thrift stores like Goodwill or Savers.

Arriving early not only shows that you are punctual and reliable, but it also gives you time to gather your thoughts and calm your nerves before the interview. Plan to arrive at least 15-20 minutes early to allow for any unexpected delays or traffic.

Overview

All in all, there are several important ways to prepare for your teacher interview like a pro! Which include:

Researching your school and district
Prepare responses to common interview questions
Showcase your teaching philosophy and experience
Bring examples of your work and lesson plans
Dress professionally and arrive early

If you want more assistance on how to prepare for your teacher interview, download this FREE Ultimate Teacher Interview Guide. This guide walks you through step by step how to confidently land your next teaching position. Click here to download it right now!

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Categories: Classroom Management, First Year Teacher, New Teachers

How to Build a Positive Classroom Community as a First Year Teacher

I know that trying to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher can be tough. You’re doing everything the experts say, but your students are still arguing with each other and not getting along for other teachers.

If this is you, you’re not alone. Building a positive classroom community as a first year teacher can feel overwhelming when you pair it with the other million tasks teachers are required to do. But here’s the thing, it doesn’t have to be! What if building a positive classroom community was so simple that it was built into your day on autopilot without you having to think about it?

Too good to be true? Well not with these 5 strategies. Today I am going to show you 5 steps you need to take today in order to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher. So grab that coffee and let’s start building the strongest community in the school!

Listen to the podcast:

How to Build a Positive Classroom Community as a First Year Teacher

Helena (00:00): Does it feel like your students are always fighting and they aren’t behaving for other teachers? No matter what you do, they always need you to help solve a problem. What if I told you that your students are always helping each other and taking each other, taking care of each other, and your classroom was just the most positive classroom in the school? But Helena, how do I get there? Is that class a thing? Is that a real thing? Yes, it is. I’m here to show you how. So stick around because I’m going to talk about how you can achieve just that. Hey, teacher bestie. My name’s Helena and I’m the creator, the Present Teacher podcast. I’m a first year teacher coach, and in this podcast you are gonna learn everything from simple actual classroom management, social emotional learning, and teacher wellness strategies. You know that impact you wanna make in the classroom. We’re gonna make it happen here. (00:56) Step number one, establish rules and boundaries early on. Now, without going too deep into this, because I did in a previous episode, but when you do this at the beginning of the year or now, you are going to want to have your students create rules with you. Help them buy in by having them sign or come up with the rules. And this will help create ownership of their learning and help them stay accountable and remind them, Hey, remember we all agree that this would be rule number three, and the expectation is blank. So that is step number one. Step number two, foster those positive relationships. Have you ever walked into a place and you can just tell that the moon and the vibe is just happy and calm? Well, the same goes for your classroom. You can tell the mood in your classroom just based on how you interact with your students. (01:51) So let’s make sure it’s a good vibe. You might be wondering, how do I do that? Well, here’s a couple ways to achieve that. The first one being get to know your students one-on-one, ask or compliment them in the morning. I love to greet my kids at the door because it gives me that visual cue that I can see. Are they having a a good day? Is their morning okay? Are they having a hard morning? Are they going to need some extra love? The second thing is have a meal with them. I love my quiet time as an introverted teacher. However, on Fridays I love to pick four or five depending, you know, the size of your class. But I like to pick a few students and have a meal with them and ask them about their family. Ask them about their dog, learn about their interests. (02:38) Because what happens is, is when you take time to learn about your kids and you remember those things and you bring it up later, they just, oh my gosh, they just explode that you care enough about ’em to know the little things. So trust me and that, and it’ll make you fall in love with them even more. But take some time to have a meal with them and ask those questions, show that you care and take interest in their personal life. This year I really made an attempt to go to the baseball games, to go to the soccer games, to go to the ballet because it’s important for my kids to know that I have their back and I’m there for them. So this is a great way to foster those positive relationships. And I’ve said this before, a student won’t learn from a teacher they don’t like. (03:31) And I’m not saying you’re going to be able to reach every kid and not every kid’s gonna like you, and that’s okay, but your kids are gonna learn to love you if you tell them more about you. I know that’s not what you probably thought I was going to say, but talk about your own interests. I don’t know why, but my first year, I think there was like a veteran told me that, you know, you shouldn’t say anything about your life to your kids. Now, I’m not saying tell ’em about all your problems and everything personal, but I like to share about my doc’s, Kohan Kenai from Brother Bear. My kids love that they love asking me and they call, call them my my sons like, share about your personal life because kids will remember you and learn to like you if you have something in common. (04:20) The same goes for this podcast. If I never told you anything personal about myself or anything of my like or interests, you wouldn’t be listening to me because we would have nothing in common. So there’s that. Step number three, practice active listening. So you’re gonna wanna mono what this looks like and sh show what it looks like and sounds like. And the biggest thing that I have made myself do is to preach what I say and do the same. So I talk about active listening as a respecting another person and showing that you are hearing them and listening to the words they have to say and you are holding space for them and you are actively presently in the moment listening to them. So we talk about what body languages looks like, what our minds doing, what our voices are doing. Um, you can do a visual poster, but this is something I cover at the very beginning of class. (05:21) If you haven’t done this yet, that’s okay, we can practice now, but we come up with a saying like, track the speaker still hands listening, ears, voices off sitting, still do your best caring heart. Obviously I have that memorized, but we go over it almost every single time at carpet time. And then I point out kids that are actively listening. And then I model by doing it when my kids are talking to me now with my kids, because you know I love them. They come up to me and they have something really exciting to say, but I have an adult slash teacher thing to do and I can’t give them my my full attention. I will tell them so and so, I would love to listen to you right now, however I need to finish this task, then I would love to actively listen to you. (06:07) And they, they’ve learned to wait. And then after I’m done, I turn my body, I practice what I preach, I turn my body, I cross my hands and I show them that I’m listening. And your kids will respect you for doing that. It’s that mutual respect. And again, I like to point out other students who are practicing actively listening to their friends when the rest of us need a couple reminders. So if you have a moment where your kids are really chatty at the carpet, I might say, oh, I love how so-and-so is actively listening by sitting crisscross applesauce. I love how so-and-so is actively listening by tracking the speaker still hands, going through the whole poster activity you did earlier and having it up somewhere helps but model what you preach and point out people who are doing a great job. And if you’re using the super improver wall like I am, then this is a great time for a sticker. (07:01) But beside the point, so practice active listening. Step number four, create a safe space for sharing and expressing emotions. I don’t want students, and I’m pretty sure you’re the same way, because we’re, we think a lot alike, but I don’t want students to feel like there are any silly questions. All thoughts, opinions and emotions are valid. And I may not agree with you, but I do respect you enough to listen, hold space and validate. So model what that looks like. How can I express this? You can talk about what does that look like, sound like when you’re list sharing and expressing your emotions. How can I express that I’m mad instead of throwing something across the floor, I can take a calming breath and say, I’m mad right now. How can I listen to others to make them feel validated? Kids wanna help each other, but sometimes they just don’t know how. (08:02) And you have to model that. What does that look like and sound like You can do this during circle time, morning meeting, afternoon meeting. You can talk about a friend who’s upset and what do I do as good friend to show that I see them, I hear them and I wanna validate their feelings. You could, you know, go through the thank you because the last thing I would want you to do is, I’m sorry you’re feeling that way. What can I do to make it better? All those are super important. Your kids wanna help, they wanna thrive, they wanna grow. Modeling that for each other is huge. Step number five, collaborate and teamwork. So I have a fun story about this. So during the first week of school, I noticed that these kids in particular had a hard time with collaborating and teamwork. So what I did is we played the cup game. (09:00) So the cup game isn’t the cup song from my childhood. I got magic from the long way around. I know I’ll let her sing it, but I love that song. Anyways, it’s not that one, it’s cup stacking. So I separated my class two teams and I had them sit, you know, in their groups. And when I said go, they had to stack the highest tower of cups on top of each other. What would happen was whenever my kids accidentally knocked over the Tower of Cups, they would start yelling at each other and getting angry and not regulating their emotions. What would happen was because they were being not the nicest friend to each other, the cops would keep falling down. So after we went through this exercise, once I, you know, there were some tears, it was a little frustrating, but I had everyone sit down and calm down and I just had my kids let my kids talk. (09:57) What did you notice about the cup game? What did you notice about your teammates? How did they make you feel? What did you like? What did you didn’t like? What did you notice about the cups whenever your teammates were doing that and light bulbs, absolute light bulbs, they were like, you know what, I’ll never forget one of my little boys. He’s like, I dropped the tower, or the tower fell because so-and-so was yelling at me and didn’t make me feel good. So I accidentally bumped the other cups and we talked about how we expanded on how how we treat each other is how our cups are and our cups represent our emotions and how our teammates are are working together. When we work well as a team, our shower is super high. We’re steady as a team, we’re praising each other, we’re supporting each other and it’s tall. (10:47) But when we are tearing each other down and getting mad and frustrated and taking it on each other, the cups fall. And this was huge, huge. And so we did it a second time. We talked about strategy and what they could do next time and what they wanted to do better. And so we did it a second time and those towers were so much taller and it was so much more positive in the class. So now I love to go back every once in a while and remind them of the cup game. And we play the cup game whenever we kind of forget what good teamwork and collaboration means because otherwise our cups are falling. So my point is, it’s important to model what good teamwork looks like. What does it sound like? Um, how can we be good supportive team member so our cups are tall and high and not falling? (11:41) How can we make sure that our team is the best cup stacker in the class? Thank you so much for listening. I hope you found this helpful and I’m so excited to hear about you implementing the strategies you learned from this week’s episode. Remember, I am always here from you for you cheering you on. I am your biggest fan. I would love if you could tag me and show me that you are listening to this podcast by taking a screenshot and either sending it to me or adding it to your stories and tagging me at the present teacher on Instagram. I love seeing all the amazing educators around the world listening in. Remember that we are stronger together. Take care, teacher bestie. Until next week, love Helen. (12:28) Thank you so much for joining me on today’s episode. I hope that you were able to take away some value that will help you thrive inside and outta the classroom. It would mean the world to me. If you could take five seconds right now and leave a review on this podcast, and if you found this podcast especially helpful, make sure to take a screenshot of this episode right now and tag me on your social school. Let me know you’re listening. As always, remember that we are stronger together with all the love in the world. Helena aka, the present teacher. See you next time. Teacher bestie.

Establish Rules and Boundaries Early On

The first step you need to take to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher is to establish your rules and boundaries early on. As I talked about in a previous episode, in order for students to excel they need to know what’s expected of them.

Establishing rules and boundaries from the start is key for setting expectations of behavior. Make sure your rules are clear, concise and easy to follow. Involve your students in the process of creating these rules – they will be more engaged, motivated and responsible if they have a say. You should also explain the consequences for breaking rules so that your students know what will happen if they do not comply with them.

Some ways to implement this is to have your students create the rules with you, vote on them, and have them sign the rules. This will allow buy in and will allow your students to feel seen and heard. Overall this is a very important step to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher.

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Foster Positive Relationships With Your Students

The second step to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher is to foster a positive relationship with your students. As I mentioned in this episode of the Present Teacher Podcast, students won’t learn from a teacher they don’t like.

The same goes for building a positive classroom community, it’s hard to have a positive classroom community when the students don’t get along with the teacher. Getting to know your students beyond the curriculum can help you create a nurturing classroom community. Spend one-on-one time with each student to learn about their interests, goals and home life.

When you show your students that you care for their physical, mental and emotional well-being through positive reinforcement they will learn to love not only you but the classroom community as well.

One way to achieve this is do check-ins, leave positive notes, send positive notes home, and compliment your students. Showing that you are available and receptive to talking positively strengthens trust between yourself and your students. Which makes this step essential if you want to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher.

Show Respect by Practicing Active Listening Skills

The third step to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher is to practice active listening. Now let’s be honest, active listening is a skill that is not only difficult for students to master, but for students as well. That’s why it’s so important to practice what you preach and model active listening when your students are talking to you.

Whenever you engage with your students it is important to practice your active listening skills. Whether in small group or one-on-one settings, always keep eye contact and be attentive to details and student emotions. Ask open-ended questions and let the student talk without interruption; frequently check for understanding and restate information shared by the student to confirm understanding. Your recognition of their perspectives will help them feel heard, seen, respected and valued.

You can also have your class practice active listening and redirect them when they are not. Make sure to model what this looks like and sounds like. You can even pause instruction when someone is talking over a friends and say:

“I’m so sorry to interrupt you (insert name), but I see two students who are not practicing actively listening. Let’s wait until they show us that they are ready to actively listen.”

This is a great skill for not only adults but students as well and it’s a great next step to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher.

Create a Safe Haven for Sharing and Expressing Feelings

The fourth step to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher is to create a safe space to share feelings and expressing them. Students will not help build a positive classroom environment if they feel like their feelings will not be validated. That’s why it’s so important to make sure all feelings and thoughts are validated in the classroom.

Allowing students to share and express their feelings in a safe and respectful environment is essential for creating a positive classroom community. As teachers, it’s our job to create an atmosphere that is open and welcoming to all types of perspectives. However, it’s also important to establish ground rules and expectations with your students that emphasize respect at all times, so they feel comfortable speaking openly without feeling judged.

It’s important to encourage them to be flexible, creative, tolerant and compassionate with one another. One way to achieve this is to do a bucket filler lesson where you talk about bucket filling and bucket dipping. We also talk about inside versus outside voices and what to say to comfort a friend. If you want more support in teaching these kinds of lessons check out these resources.

All in all, creating a safe space for students to feel seen, heard and validated is essential if you want to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher.

Create Opportunities for Collaboration and Teamwork

The final step to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher is to create opportunities to collaborate and teamwork. When you allow students to collaborate you are allowing them to learn important interpersonal skills as well as the ability to talk more in a structured way. So if you have a chatty class you definitely want to be doing this!

Creating opportunities for students to collaborate and work together is a great way to foster a positive classroom community. Through team-based activities, students will learn how to better communicate and rely on one another, while also getting the chance to get to know each other in an educational setting.

You can assign tasks and projects that require students to work with others or divide the class into smaller groups and have them come up with creative solutions to different problems. Another great way is to have students “teach” each other important points as you teach. This will encourage responsibility, critical thinking, and problem solving skills all while building relationships between your students. And what better way to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher.

Make this your best year yet with the Ultimate First Year Teacher Checklist!

Overall

In summary, in order to build a positive classroom community as a first year teacher you need the following steps:

Establish Rules and Boundaries Early On
Foster Positive Relationships With Your Students
Show Respect by Practicing Active Listening Skills
Create a Safe Haven for Sharing and Expressing Feelings
And Finally to Create Opportunities for Collaboration and Teamwork

All of these are a great way to build a classroom community so that you and your students will enjoy coming to school and have a community so strong it will feel like a family.

Which strategy are you going to incorporate to build a positive classroom community? I would love to hear your thoughts!

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Overall

Myth: You have to be perfect from day one.

Learn how to take photos like a pro

Myth: You have to be strict to earn respect.

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Myth: You have to be an expert in every subject.

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In Summary

The Secret

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How do you handle classroom management and discipline?

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How do you incorporate technology into your lessons?

How do you assess student learning and adjust instruction accordingly?

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Can you tell us about your teaching experience?

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If you have a student who is not following directions in class, what do you do?

Can you give an example of a successful lesson you’ve taught?

To Wrap it All Up

Extra copies of your resume and cover letter.

Teaching portfolio with lesson plans and student work samples.

References and contact information.

Professional attire and grooming.

Questions you want to ask the interviewer.

Hey Teachers!

Thank you cards for the interview.

Paper to write down any notes.

Mini lesson materials and lesson plan.

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In Summary

Research the School and District.

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Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy and Experience.

Bring Examples of Your Work and Lesson Plans.

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Hey Teachers!

Overview

Hey New Teachers!

Establish Rules and Boundaries Early On

Foster Positive Relationships With Your Students

Show Respect by Practicing Active Listening Skills

Hey New Teachers!

Create a Safe Haven for Sharing and Expressing Feelings

Create Opportunities for Collaboration and Teamwork

Overall