6 answers
JONAH
Student
Canaan, New York
1
Question
Asked
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Do school districts take into account the college I attend when considering me for a teaching position?
I go to the top school for teaching in my state, but it's closing soon. I need to transfer and I'm wondering if I should look for a new school.
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6 answers
Melody Tharpe
Education - Teacher
166
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Greetings Jonah,
In my experience, districts look at a number of things when considering their teachers. Given the current educational need for teachers, they are a little bit more say lenient in certain areas. The key thing I've noticed over the years that I've been in teaching and interviewing is they do make sure you're from an accredited school and they do look to see that you had some practicum or demonstration teaching. However, they are now looking for candidates that show willingness and realistic expectations. They'll hire you, get you in and get you settled. They'll try to partner you with a mentor and just see how you do in the classroom. As it is often said the key thing is for you to know when to ask, what to ask, and who to ask for help. You should make sure you reach out to many teachers; some will be grumpy, some will be disgruntled, and some will be quite cheery and positive about everything. Each district is different so it might be wise to see if you can contact someone within that school or that district to just to have a talk to before you actually hire in. The greatest shock I've seen for most beginning teachers is believing some arbitrary information about the school and then coming into the district and the school and being very shocked or being not quite as satisfied with what they thought they were going to encounter so even if you can enter into a building a few times before you actually get there to get an idea that is always the best I hope this information helps you not to worry so much about what you're presenting because most of it will come when you're actually in the classroom and demonstrating what you can and cannot do and looking out and reaching out for help best regards for your future endeavor and education.
In my experience, districts look at a number of things when considering their teachers. Given the current educational need for teachers, they are a little bit more say lenient in certain areas. The key thing I've noticed over the years that I've been in teaching and interviewing is they do make sure you're from an accredited school and they do look to see that you had some practicum or demonstration teaching. However, they are now looking for candidates that show willingness and realistic expectations. They'll hire you, get you in and get you settled. They'll try to partner you with a mentor and just see how you do in the classroom. As it is often said the key thing is for you to know when to ask, what to ask, and who to ask for help. You should make sure you reach out to many teachers; some will be grumpy, some will be disgruntled, and some will be quite cheery and positive about everything. Each district is different so it might be wise to see if you can contact someone within that school or that district to just to have a talk to before you actually hire in. The greatest shock I've seen for most beginning teachers is believing some arbitrary information about the school and then coming into the district and the school and being very shocked or being not quite as satisfied with what they thought they were going to encounter so even if you can enter into a building a few times before you actually get there to get an idea that is always the best I hope this information helps you not to worry so much about what you're presenting because most of it will come when you're actually in the classroom and demonstrating what you can and cannot do and looking out and reaching out for help best regards for your future endeavor and education.
Melody Tharpe
Education - Teacher
166
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Melody’s Answer
Greetings Jonah,
In my experience, districts look at a number of things when considering their teachers. Given the current educational need for teachers, they are a little bit more say lenient in certain areas. The key thing I've noticed over the years that I've been in teaching and interviewing is they do make sure you're from an accredited school and they do look to see that you had some practicum or demonstration teaching. However, they are now looking for candidates that show willingness and realistic expectations. They'll hire you, get you in and get you settled. They'll try to partner you with a mentor and just see how you do in the classroom. As it is often said the key thing is for you to know when to ask, what to ask, and who to ask for help. You should make sure you reach out to many teachers; some will be grumpy, some will be disgruntled, and some will be quite cheery and positive about everything. Each district is different so it might be wise to see if you can contact someone within that school or that district to just to have a talk to before you actually hire in. The greatest shock I've seen for most beginning teachers is believing some arbitrary information about the school and then coming into the district and the school and being very shocked or being not quite as satisfied with what they thought they were going to encounter so even if you can enter into a building a few times before you actually get there to get an idea that is always the best. I hope this information helps you not to worry so much about what you're presenting because most of it will come when you're actually in the classroom and demonstrating what you can and cannot do and looking out and reaching out for help. Best regards for your future pursuits.
In my experience, districts look at a number of things when considering their teachers. Given the current educational need for teachers, they are a little bit more say lenient in certain areas. The key thing I've noticed over the years that I've been in teaching and interviewing is they do make sure you're from an accredited school and they do look to see that you had some practicum or demonstration teaching. However, they are now looking for candidates that show willingness and realistic expectations. They'll hire you, get you in and get you settled. They'll try to partner you with a mentor and just see how you do in the classroom. As it is often said the key thing is for you to know when to ask, what to ask, and who to ask for help. You should make sure you reach out to many teachers; some will be grumpy, some will be disgruntled, and some will be quite cheery and positive about everything. Each district is different so it might be wise to see if you can contact someone within that school or that district to just to have a talk to before you actually hire in. The greatest shock I've seen for most beginning teachers is believing some arbitrary information about the school and then coming into the district and the school and being very shocked or being not quite as satisfied with what they thought they were going to encounter so even if you can enter into a building a few times before you actually get there to get an idea that is always the best. I hope this information helps you not to worry so much about what you're presenting because most of it will come when you're actually in the classroom and demonstrating what you can and cannot do and looking out and reaching out for help. Best regards for your future pursuits.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Jonah, I had a chat with my sister-in-law, who's been a principal at a middle school for the last 7 years after starting her career as a special ed teacher. She shared some insights about what school districts usually look for when hiring teachers. They generally focus on your qualifications, like your education, experience, certifications, and relevant skills. The school you went to can play a part in your training as a teacher, but it's not the only thing they consider. They're more interested in the quality of your education, the accreditation of your program, and how well you can teach and demonstrate your knowledge in your subject area.
Going to a top teaching school in your state can definitely give you a solid foundation in teaching methods and managing a classroom, which can be a plus when applying for teaching jobs. But if your current school is closing and you need to transfer, it's important to find a new school that offers the same level of academic challenge, accreditation, and chances for real-world experience and professional growth.
When you're looking at possible transfer schools, think about things like how well-respected the school's education program is, the expertise of the faculty, the resources they offer for preparing and supporting teachers, and opportunities for real teaching experience through internships or student teaching. Also, check out the school's success in preparing graduates for careers in education, like their job placement rates and how satisfied their alumni are.
Going to a famous or prestigious school can sometimes give you an edge in terms of networking or name recognition, but what school districts really care about is your ability to teach well and help students learn. Choose a transfer school that fits with your academic and career goals, offers thorough training and support for future teachers, and gives you the knowledge and skills you'll need to be a great teacher.
No matter where you get your education degree, it's important to really dive into your coursework, look for chances to get practical experience, and build strong relationships with your professors, mentors, and classmates. These experiences will not only make you a stronger candidate for teaching jobs but also show your dedication to education and your readiness to make a real difference in students' lives. In the end, your commitment, enthusiasm, and expertise as a teacher will speak louder to school districts than the name of the school where you got your training.
Going to a top teaching school in your state can definitely give you a solid foundation in teaching methods and managing a classroom, which can be a plus when applying for teaching jobs. But if your current school is closing and you need to transfer, it's important to find a new school that offers the same level of academic challenge, accreditation, and chances for real-world experience and professional growth.
When you're looking at possible transfer schools, think about things like how well-respected the school's education program is, the expertise of the faculty, the resources they offer for preparing and supporting teachers, and opportunities for real teaching experience through internships or student teaching. Also, check out the school's success in preparing graduates for careers in education, like their job placement rates and how satisfied their alumni are.
Going to a famous or prestigious school can sometimes give you an edge in terms of networking or name recognition, but what school districts really care about is your ability to teach well and help students learn. Choose a transfer school that fits with your academic and career goals, offers thorough training and support for future teachers, and gives you the knowledge and skills you'll need to be a great teacher.
No matter where you get your education degree, it's important to really dive into your coursework, look for chances to get practical experience, and build strong relationships with your professors, mentors, and classmates. These experiences will not only make you a stronger candidate for teaching jobs but also show your dedication to education and your readiness to make a real difference in students' lives. In the end, your commitment, enthusiasm, and expertise as a teacher will speak louder to school districts than the name of the school where you got your training.
Nathaniel P. Creed
Administration/Technician
13
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Nathaniel P.’s Answer
Explore colleges and universities that offer specialized programs for aspiring teachers or educators. These programs often include valuable lessons on creating effective teaching plans or gaining insights into special needs and learning differences.
Don't hesitate to reach out to faculty or office members of the colleges you're interested in. They can provide recommendations for local school districts in need of teachers. At the very least, try to discover if any local schools are in need of substitutes or teacher's aides. This will not only provide you with real-world experience but also give you a glimpse of what the school can offer you.
Furthermore, consider obtaining certificates. Some schools prioritize specific certifications over degrees. So, equip yourself with the right credentials to enhance your chances of getting hired.
Look for university job/career counseling or job boards
Google National Education Association
Look for special certificates just in case a degree isn't enough
Don't hesitate to reach out to faculty or office members of the colleges you're interested in. They can provide recommendations for local school districts in need of teachers. At the very least, try to discover if any local schools are in need of substitutes or teacher's aides. This will not only provide you with real-world experience but also give you a glimpse of what the school can offer you.
Furthermore, consider obtaining certificates. Some schools prioritize specific certifications over degrees. So, equip yourself with the right credentials to enhance your chances of getting hired.
Nathaniel P. recommends the following next steps:
Avirup Ray
Student
39
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Avirup’s Answer
While the college you attend for teaching is important, it isn't the only factor in your application. School districts often look at you holistically, using your college education combined with your work experience and background.
Catharine Wingle
Medical Laboratory Scientist - Student
1
Answer
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Catharine’s Answer
Hi! It is great that you are planning ahead! School districts will look for qualified applicants, and this includes many factors as everyone above stated. As long as you have the certifications, and qualifications, you will be able to find a reputable school for your next position. The most important part if during interviews how well you explain your passion for teaching, and previous strategies you implemented that helped engage students. This can be something you highlight, if you started maybe a club or particular group at your previous employment.
Best of luck!!!
Continue looking for job openings
Talk to colleges about potential opening (networking)
Best of luck!!!
Catharine recommends the following next steps: