Suggestions for interview at a school?

[bamamom]

I have an interview tomorrow at the school my children attend for an aide position with a special education kindergartener. I have been a sub for teachers and aides at this school for about 6 years but I'm not sure how an interview will be for an aide position. Any suggestions or tips for interviewing in a school system? Im so nervous and I don't know why maybe because it would be so much better for our family if I did get the job. Ive been working outside the home in another position for the last year and it has been nothing but a headache with the kids after school and in the summer....being on their schedule would be wonderful because we don't have any family here to help us. All tips are appreciated

 

[IDoDis]

I'm a special ed teacher. My advice is to first of all, just be yourself. Don't get overly dressed up, but look professional. In other words, don't look like you are afraid to get sneezed on or drooled on. A summer dress with sandals or a pair of khaki capris with a polo work fine. Don't wear any heavy smelling lotions or perfumes. Often kids with special needs who need a 1:1 assistant have breathing problems or severe allergies and are very sensitive to things like this, so don't even allow that issue to factor into a decision by the interviewing team or principal.

When the principal asks you questions, talk about how you can benefit the child based on your experiences with children in general, including being a parent. It's okay to not have experience working with someone who has special needs, but say you are eager to learn and be a team player with the student's teacher(s).

Good luck to you! Post back how it went.

 

[bamamom]

Thanks IDoDis.

Anyone else? Would like some questions and answer help for the interviews as well.

 

[m0mmy]

I spent 7 years being a volunteer helper at my children's school. Last year I started out as a sub in my child's school. I interviewed as a school secretary, last summer. They could tell I was not sure I wanted the job, so I did not get it. However, in Nov. the principal asked me to apply to be an Aide to a kindergartener. I was not sure I could do it, but I subbed for the little guy for a week. It was challenging, but very rewarding. When I finally interviewed for the job, I knew I wanted it. I went in there with a lot of confidence knowing I wanted the job, knowing I could handle both the job and working full time after many years at home. I think that really help my case. The principal and vice-principal knew me and knew I wanted the job. It is great to work only when my children are at school. I think you need to focus on how you can help children, all children.

 

[NikiM20]

Pre-K Special ed aide here! I know you cant tell us the specific diagnosis of the child (if you even know), but think of a few things that you could help that child with incase the principal asks.
For example, If the child is nonverbal, you could work with basic sign language to help with transitions if that is a problem with that child. Potty time , play time, eat, sit, etc
In my interview the principal also asked me questions such as
If John were to throw a bucket of toys on the floor, how would you handle the situation?

Depending on diagnosis, there may be diaper changes, assistance with bathroom, feeding etc. Many people dont last because they think it is an easy job.

I my job!! I am currently in school to get my degree so I can actually teach!! If you have any more questions ask! Good Luck!

 

[mrstomrice]

You may be asked about how you will separate being a parent from being a school employee? I know a parent at my school interviewed for a recess aide position and that was a concern for the principal...she did get the job. Good luck!

 

[crusoe2]

Another spec ed teacher here. If you have time, review school policies to be sure you're familiar with them in case you are asked how you would handle various scenarios. Also, think about the confidentiality issue - this can be a biggie with spec ed and you could very well get an interview question on it. The correct answer is pretty obvious - you won't share information on that child - but having a well-thought out answer shows that you have given serious thought to what the job entails rather than sounding like "Oh yeah, that's right - I won't be able to talk about this kid outside school." Good luck.

 

[AristocatFan]

Wow, they interview for that? Here you just fill out an app and they check recommendations. Good luck, and let us know how it went.