Job Search and Application Process

I have interviewed hundreds of job applicants over the years. I can assure you that a job interview will contain all kinds of traps. Sometimes the interviewer sets the traps. She will build questions into her interview script so she can see how you handle unexpected situations. Other times you will unknowingly set a trap for yourself by making a statement which the interviewer determines is worth exploring in greater detail. Against that backdrop, let's review how to handle some of those traps which might occur when you interview for that job as the math teacher at St. Agatha's Academy.

1. Do some role-playing.

Preparing for a job interview is an essential part of the process if you truly want the job. That's because the competition is a lot tougher these days. Public schools and colleges and universities have been down-sizing their teaching staffs. There are many reasons for this, but the bottom line is that more qualified education professionals are applying for teaching jobs than ever before.

How should you prepare for your interview? A few weeks before your interview do some role-playing, enlist the aid of a trusted friend or family member to play the part of the interviewer. Dress up in your interview outfit. Do the role-playing in a setting similar to what you might expect for the interview, such as an office or a table in Starbucks. The 16th-century adage that 'practice makes perfect' applies to your job interview. You will be amazed at

Private school teachers do not belong to a teachers' union. One of the great strengths of a union is that it connects like-minded workers, keeps them informed of trends within their industry, and promotes solidarity. These are all laudable aims. How do private school teachers get connected with others in their profession?

Keep your network current

Think of all the people you meet in person or electronically every day. Keep email addresses for those colleagues and others whom you consider valuable in some way. Perhaps you admire a colleague for her leadership in a particular area such as online learning or podcasting. Leave a comment on her blog. Email her. You don't have to write an epistle. A few words of positive support and encouragement are all that is needed. Ask for help. It is impossible for anybody to have all the answers. Your colleagues are a wonderful resource. Keeping your network current allows you to utilize those resources fully.

Connect on ATLIS

Interacting with your colleagues is something you need to do regularly. Join the discussions on ATLIS (The Association of Technology Leaders in Independent Schools) Express your opinions. Learn from what others are saying. ATLIS offers virtual events and a career corner. as well as many other resources for the busy independent school teacher.

Podcasting

Podcasting is an effective way of letting people know what you do. Podcast Insights has a list of podcast hosting sites, several of which are free. Keep your

You can send a resume and use an agency to find a private school job. However, using your network is the best way to find a private school job. You do have a network, don't you?

In truth, the private school job-hunting season never ceases. The main window of opportunity is from December through March. Not much happens on either side of those months unless a school has an unexpected vacancy. This is where your network comes in. Let's say you are considering finding a new position for the next school year. Firm up your decision by the end of October or November so that you can begin your active job search.

The First Steps

Check the job boards in the areas you are thinking about moving to. Register with an agency that specializes in placing private school teachers. They will know about openings. That will get you thinking about the possibilities.

Know why you want to make a move. Are you making a lateral move, i.e., moving to another school to do the same thing you've been doing? Or are you seeking different responsibilities, such as being an administrator? You need to have your goals clearly understood. That will be invaluable during the interview process when the question "Why do you want to leave St. Swithin's and come teach at our school?" is asked.

This brief video offers three tips to advance your career by networking.

Exploring Private School Jobs: Opportunities and Insights

What is it really like to work in a private school? Is it the same as teaching in a public school?

• I'll explore private school jobs and the opportunities they offer.
• I'll also share some insights into teaching in a private school versus a public school.
• I'll also look at the benefits of working at a private school, preparing for work in a private school, and finding a teaching position.

Canva generated this picture of a teacher working at his laptop.

My Experience Teaching in Private Schools

I taught Latin, English, World History, Music, and Computers in private schools and was also the Deputy Director of one in The Bahamas.

• I love the small classes. I never had more than 15 students.
• What I liked most was that my students loved learning. Their curiosity was boundless.
• My students also worked very hard. I remember my middle school and high school students lugging wheeled suitcases filled with textbooks.
• The John E. Warriner English Grammar and Composition texts were thick and heavy, as was the world history text.
• The students were generally gifted. Indeed, several were probably geniuses.

Photo of Rob Kennedy in the 90s when he was teaching.

The partnership with parents was constructive.

• My parents appreciated the education we were giving their children.
• I appreciated the support