5 Key Interview Questions Every Substitute Teacher Should Be Able to Answer

Why did you decide to become a teacher?
Can you tell us about your teaching experience?
It can be easy to unintentionally list information straight from your resume that the interviewer already knows. Instead of just focusing on tasks and curriculum that you taught, discussing your growth in the position is important here as well. Take time to reflect on what you achieved with your past students and share how that transformed your teaching experience.
If this is your first role in education and you don’t have an educational degree, don’t be alarmed. Use this as an opportunity to share how you were inspired to begin a path in education. If you don’t have experience in a conventional classroom setting, give an example of similar experience such as being a camp counselor.
It is important to have an elevator pitch prepared as to why you want to transition into education. It’s ideal to explain how you will make a unique impact teaching and why you are interested in becoming a substitute teacher.
Can you give us an example to better understand your teaching/classroom management style?
Are you comfortable following preset lesson plans and/or creating your own?
How do you handle disruptions in your classroom?
Below are other key points to keep in mind before entering your interview.
1. Dress professionally
2. Arrive on-time, or ideally a few minutes before your scheduled interview start.
3. Bring an extra copy of your resume with you to the interview, just in case the interviewer asks for this, or you want to reference it while speaking about your experience.
4. Be genuine and honest in all answers
5. Highlight your qualifications and experiences
6. Ask follow-up questions such as: “What is the most important quality you are looking for in the person who fills this role?”
7. Finish the interview by asking whether they have any questions or concerns about what you discussed today. Listen carefully here and try to answer in a way to put to rest any concerns.
8. End by thanking them for their time and reinforcing your interest in the school and the position.