Introducing yourself in a teaching interview is your first opportunity to make a strong impression on the interview panel. How you present and carry yourself speaks volumes about your qualifications, personality and fit for the position. A thoughtful and confident self-introduction can set the tone for a successful interview.
Here are some quick tips for introducing yourself effectively in a teaching interview:
- Make eye contact and smile as you greet each interviewer. A warm, genuine smile puts both you and the panel at ease.
- Speak clearly and confidently. Avoid speaking too quickly or softly.
- Keep your introduction concise – 30 seconds to one minute. You will have time later to provide more detail about yourself.
- Provide your full name, where you currently teach and the position you are interviewing for.
- Highlight 1-2 standout teaching achievements or classroom strengths.
- Convey enthusiasm and passion for teaching and working with students.
- Close your introduction by expressing your excitement for the role and school.
With some preparation and practice, you can craft and deliver a polished, engaging self-introduction. Continue reading for more tips and examples to help master your teaching interview introduction.
Research the School
Before your teaching interview, thoroughly research the school, its students, mission and values. This will allow you to tailor your introduction specifically to the school. Demonstrate you are knowledgeable about and enthusiastic for the opportunity by:
- Referencing specific school programs, values or goals that resonate with you.
- Commenting on the school’s academic strengths and achievements.
- Discussing a particular extracurricular activity or event the school offers.
- Mentioning if you know any current teachers or alumni from the school.
Conveying your interest in the specific school makes your introduction memorable and impactful. Avoid generic introductions that could apply to any teaching job. Take time beforehand to gather key facts, statistics and details about the school that you can work into your opening remarks.
Highlight Relevant Experience
When introducing yourself in a teaching interview, succinctly spotlight your most relevant credentials, classroom experience and background for the job. Share key details that make you an excellent fit for the open position such as:
- Grade levels and subject areas you have taught, matching the position you are applying for.
- Particular student populations you have worked with that relate to the school’s needs, such as English language learners or special education students.
- Notable achievements in the classroom, such as improved standardized test scores or student engagement gains.
- Areas of specialization like technology integration, curriculum development or positive behavior support.
Keep your introduction focused on highlights that speak to your capability to excel in the role. Additional details can be discussed later during the main interview.
Show Passion and Enthusiasm
During your interview introduction, aim to convey sincere passion and enthusiasm for teaching, working with students and joining the school community. Consider including:
- What first interested you in teaching and drew you to the profession.
- Key experiences that get you excited about teaching and learning.
- Your teaching philosophy, goals and vision for the classroom.
- Aspirations for how you hope to positively impact students.
- Genuine excitement about the prospect of joining the school.
Avoid simply reciting your resume. Showcase intangible strengths like your inspirational presence, empathy, creativity and rapport building skills. This gives the panel insight into the positive culture you will create in your classroom.
Practice and Prepare
With a teaching interview, how you say your introduction is just as important as what you say. Practice delivering your introduction aloud several times prior to the interview to polish your delivery. Ask a friend or family member for feedback.
During your practice runs:
- Time yourself to ensure your introduction stays concise.
- Speak slowly, clearly and confidently.
- Use natural hand gestures and movements.
- Maintain good posture and eye contact.
- Infuse energy and enthusiasm into your voice.
- Avoid filler words like “um” and “uh”.
Listen to any nervous rambling or awkward pauses that need smoothing out. Keep practicing until your self-introduction feels natural and authentic.
Visualize giving a polished, engaging introduction that makes a stellar first impression. This mental preparation will help you feel poised and confident leading up to and during the real interview.
Examples and What to Say
It can be helpful to look at example teaching interview introductions to get ideas for your own. Here are some sample introductions encompassing the key tips above:
Example 1:
“Good morning Ms. Klein and Mr. Simmons. I’m Jane Smith and I’m thrilled to be interviewing today for the 5th grade ELA position at Sunset Elementary. For the past three years, I’ve taught 4th grade at Hillside Elementary where I spearheaded the implementation of a new writing curriculum. My focus on targeted literacy instruction led to a 10% increase in our state writing test proficiency. I’ve also worked extensively with English language learners, who comprise a significant portion of students here at Sunset. Your school’s emphasis on community, inclusion and high expectations for every student deeply aligns with my teaching philosophy. I’m excited by the prospect of bringing my experience and passion for teaching to the Sunset Elementary team.”
Example 2:
“Hello, my name is Todd Wilson and it is my sincere pleasure to meet with you today regarding the 8th grade social studies position. I hold a Masters in Secondary Education from State University and have spent the bulk of my 7 year teaching career instructing middle school social studies, with a focus on making history come alive for my students through interactive lessons and hands-on projects. In my current role at Central Middle School, I spearheaded a school-wide initiative to integrate instructional technology into the social studies curriculum, including podcasting projects and virtual reality historical tours. I know Lincoln Middle School prides itself on state-of-the-art facilities and providing students an enriching, engaging academic experience. I would be thrilled to join this community and share my passion for fostering student curiosity and deep learning.”
Example 3:
“Good afternoon, I’m Eliza Thomas. I’m an experienced high school math teacher with over 8 years in the classroom, and I’m excited for the opportunity to join the team here at Washington High School teaching 9th and 10th grade Geometry. I graduated with my teaching credential and Masters in Math Education from State College, where I was drawn to make math accessible and rewarding for all learners through differentiated instruction. In my current role at Kennedy High School, I played a lead part in adopting an innovative blended learning math curriculum. I spearheaded professional development to train my colleagues on this new educational technology, which substantially increased student engagement and conceptual understanding. With Washington High’s outstanding reputation for academic excellence, I’m confident I would make a strong addition to your math department by sharing my passion for igniting student curiosity, unlocking understanding, and fostering a true appreciation for the beauty of mathematics.”
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to make your teaching interview introduction impactful and memorable:
- Find the right balance between professionalism and personality. You want to come across as approachable and genuine.
- Avoid apologizing or highlighting weaknesses. Keep things upbeat and focus on your strengths.
- Make your introduction unique by infusing in your personality and teaching philosophy.
- Close your introduction by expressing enthusiasm and interest in the position.
- Introduce yourself to each interviewer if you are meeting with a panel or committee.
- Bring extra copies of your resume to distribute after your introduction.
The interview introduction is your first chance to connect with the interview panel and make a positive impression. With research and preparation, you can craft an introduction that highlights your qualifications and leaves the interviewers eager to learn more. Keep it succinct, uplifting, genuine and targeted to the specific school. This will get your teaching interview off to a standout start.
Common Interview Questions
After delivering your introduction, the interview will transition to more in-depth questions about your background, skills and teaching approach. Here are some of the most common teacher interview questions you are likely to be asked, along with examples of strong responses:
Why do you want to be a teacher?
I’ve always had a passion for working with children and making a difference in their lives. As an undergraduate I tutored students at a local elementary school. Seeing their joy and growth firsthand when a new concept clicked was incredibly motivating. I believe teaching is one of the most rewarding and important professions. My experiences helping struggling students achieve success confirmed teaching is my true calling. I thrive off of that “ah-ha!” moment when students finally understand and get excited about learning. As a teacher, I have the privilege of igniting children’s curiosity, empowering them to reach their potential, and shaping future generations. This inspires me daily and drives my passion for teaching.
What is your teaching philosophy?
My teaching philosophy centers around the belief that all students can learn and succeed when provided an inspiring, enriching and inclusive environment. My classroom will be a student-centered space where every child feels valued, challenged, supported and empowered to take risks and achieve their dreams. I believe in setting high expectations while scaffolding instruction to support students at all levels. Collaboration, differentiated teaching methods and purposeful incorporation of technology will be key. Overall, my philosophy focuses on nurturing students’ natural curiosity, instilling a genuine love of learning, and preparing them with the skills and confidence to become lifelong learners and leaders.
How do you handle classroom discipline and challenging student behaviors?
I take a positive, proactive approach to behavior management focused on clear communication of expectations, building strong relationships with students, and reinforcing positive behaviors. This starts from day one by collaboratively creating classroom norms and outlining routines. I use strategies like purposeful seating arrangements, redirects and positive reinforcements to curb negative behaviors before they escalate. If challenges do arise, I listen empathetically while being direct about unacceptable behaviors. For ongoing issues, I partner with parents, counselors and administrators to develop plans providing accommodations, supports and consequences. Above all, I aim to understand root causes and help students reflect, grow and restore relationships through restorative practices. My goal is a productive, safe classroom where students are accountable and empowered to make good choices.
How do you differentiate instruction and support varying learning needs?
I am committed to reaching every student at their level and nurturing growth. This requires identifying learners’ needs, readiness levels and interests early on through assessments and observations. I then incorporate a variety of differentiation strategies such as purposeful flexible grouping, tiered assignments, menus of challenge activities, scaffolds to support learning gaps, and opportunities for student voice and choice. Ongoing formative assessments and feedback help me tailor support as needed. For example, I may provide extra visuals, modify a text, pre-teach key vocabulary or create peer tutoring opportunities. If certain students need more specialized support, I collaborate with our special education teachers and other staff to incorporate accommodations and interventions into the curriculum. Keeping students engaged and supported takes creativity, flexibility and teamwork.
How do you incorporate technology into the classroom?
Educational technology when applied purposefully opens up countless possibilities for student learning and engagement. Beyond using classroom technology like interactive whiteboards for direct instruction, I also look for ways to empower students to direct their own learning through technology. For example, having students create presentations, videos, blogs and websites to demonstrate their knowledge. I utilize online learning games and platforms to provide engaging independent practice. My students also collaborate using online workspaces and share resources through digital portfolios. These authentic technology-based learning experiences build critical skills for success in today’s digital world. As an educator I think it’s so important to model responsible use of technology and guide students in becoming thoughtful digital citizens.
How do you support the social-emotional needs and mental wellbeing of students?
Teaching academic content goes hand-in-hand with nurturing students’ social-emotional learning and wellbeing. My classroom will be a safe, judgement free zone where students feel comfortable sharing ideas and experiences. Morning meetings help students practice social skills and build community. I teach and model strategies for emotional regulation, positive thinking and conflict resolution. Students reflect on emotions, strengths, challenges and goals through journaling. I infuse SEL into the general curriculum whenever possible through role playing, analyzing character development in literature and discussing current events. Fostering life skills like resilience, empathy, integrity and confidence are top priorities. I stay attuned to students who show signs of anxiety, depression or isolation and collaborate with counselors to provide both preventative and responsive support. Every child’s wellbeing will be valued.
Why do you want to work at our school?
I am drawn to the strong sense of community, culture of diversity and inclusion, and commitment to student excellence here at [School Name]. The school’s mission resonates with my values and aspirations as an educator. Academically, I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with such an experienced, dedicated teaching staff and utilize the school’s outstanding facilities and resources. The innovative programs and enrichment activities offered both during and after school provide amazing opportunities that I know would inspire my students. Most of all, I’m eager to join in the school’s tradition of nurturing generations of lifelong learners. I believe my teaching philosophy and skills would allow me to make a positive contribution to the school. I’m truly excited about this opportunity and the chance to be part of the [School Name] family.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the teaching interview, you will have an opportunity to ask your own questions. Prepare thoughtful questions ahead of time that demonstrate your engagement and interest in the school. Focus on areas like culture and community, professional development, leadership philosophies, future goals and more. For example:
- How would you describe the culture on campus? What makes this school unique?
- What professional development and collaboration opportunities are available for teachers?
- What are the school’s current goals and priorities and how do teachers contribute to shaping plans for the future?
- How does school leadership support teachers in providing the best learning experience for students?
- What opportunities are available for family engagement and community partnerships?
Asking intelligent, well-informed questions leaves a positive final impression that you are truly invested in the school and excited about the prospect of joining the team.
Conclusion
The teaching job interview introduction is a critical moment to get things started on a positive note. Come prepared to greet the panel warmly, highlight your strengths, express your passion for teaching and convey fit for the specific school. Practice delivering your introduction so that it sounds natural, polished and enthusiastic. This first impression can set the tone for a stellar interview. Partner your warm, confident introduction with thoughtful responses to the panel’s questions. Demonstrate you have the skills, experience, mindset and work ethic to excel in the classroom. With preparation and poise, your teaching interview introduction and responses will leave a memorable impression and move you one step closer to landing your dream job.