Answers:
Questions You Should Ask: about your expected duties, student/teacher ratio, curriculum (Science program, Math program, Reading program, Writing program), parental involvement, how many classrooms per grade level (how many other whatever grade teachers will you be working with).
What They May Ask: They will probably ask you how familiar you are with the curriculum they use ie: "Tell us how you incorporate Guided Reading into you classroom?", "What is your knowledge of the FOSS Science program?", "How familiar are you with Every Day Math?" . Try finding out in advance what they use, and research it on the web if you don't already know about it.
Point Out: You have been staying at home for 2 years. Have you done anything to stay current with education? Substitute teaching? College level Education courses? What have you been ddoing with your child(ren)?
Good luck.
One suggestion.....research every company that you are interviewing at. Know and understand what they are looking for. Don't act like you know everything, if you are not proficient in something tell them so, but also be willing to learn. If they ask you about your strengths and weaknesses, which some companies do, don't let it floor you. Be prepared at every corner to answer any question. Don't discuss money unless it is brought up by the interviewer. Don't sell yourself short but don't try to be over zealous when it comes to money. I guess this is where the research comes in handy also, check on the internet see what the starting wage range is for what you are interviewing for. Be honest and don't discuss personal issues at the interview. One question that always worked for me was is there room for advancement? Also don't be afraid to ask why the company is hiring for this position? It could be because the company is expanding or for other reasons that will give you an insight to the company. Make sure you know what is expected of you if you accept the job.
Also dress accordingly. If it is an office job, dress professional, take another copy of your resume with you.
Since we all know stay at home moms are good at multi tasking make sure you point that out about yourself.
They might ask you also about your child care situation. (Usually not a legal question to ask but alot of companies do so they know you are reliable). Make sure you explain that you have a back up plan in place if needed. (ex: child is sick and can't be taken to day care..mom or other relative around to step in for emergencies)
Good luck..take a deep breathe before you walk in the door. And remember if this one doesn't work out it wasn't meant to be.
Have a good classroom management plan in mind. You should also think about the LD students you may have in your classroom and how you will differentiate the instruction for them.
Just be yourself, you know how you teach and how passionate your are about the job. Those things should come out naturally in an interview.
Best of luck to you!
QUESTIONS FOR YOU TO ASK
"How do you foster professional development?"
"Do you have a mentorshhip program?"
(If yes encourage the school to expand on the program, if the answer is no then ask the interview team how they support new teachers)
You could also ask this: ( but get a sense from the group if they have an issue with you be gone form teaching fo so long)
" I have not been in the classroom teaching for 2 years, how do tell me how you think your school has changed teaching approaches during the 2 years...( see below if this comes up during questions for you...
BE READY FOR QUESTIONS LIKE THESE:
" You have not been in teaching for 2 years, how do you think you will make the shift back to teaching? " ( I have an answer for you just email me if you want me to give you MY IDEAS )
" What have you done during the past 2 years to up with the times of education?"
"What role does technology take in your ideal classroom setting?"
"Do you think that your approach to teaching will be different now that you are a parent?" ( If they do ask you this question, you will have a great opportunity to expand.again- I have suggestions-)
Of course, be prepared for the standard, What is your teaching philosphy, strenghts, weaknesses,,,what would your classroom set up be, How do you deal with difficult behavior, how do you deal with difficult parents, Tell me about your work with children on IEPs, What personal talents can you bring to your collegues."
Good Luck- I have been at home almost 7 years and I too willl return in about 2 or 3 so YIKES really good luck! I am sure if you are positive and eager you will do great!
By the way- I am sorry I rushed. THere are A LOT of typos but I have to run and there is no time to go back and fix them! Check MInus for me!
Be able to explain what your classroom will look like when an administrator visits your room. Be sure to mention your "posted" agenda, classroom set up (individual or group work), teaching styles and so on.
They may ask you about standardized testing or NCLB and how you will incorporate test material into you lessons.
Ask about the function of the school, who do you need to see if you are having problems or need something (dept. head, AP, Principal)
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