I am interviewing for a full time paraprofessional position. It is listed as a "Teacher Assistant" on their website (they also have "Teacher Aide" positions open...I am unsure of the difference between the two). It is for the junior high although I am certified in elementary ed. Any suggestions as to what they might ask? And what should I bring? I'm going to bring my portfolio and a mini-portfolio (resume, references, brochure). HELP!
I was a paraprofessional for a 9th grade class. I didn't prepare for the interview at the time, just winged it. Having an elementary certification was my ticket in, because the students were all on an elementary level academically.
I have a feeling that might be the case with the position you are interviewing for as well. So feel confident that you can do this job, and I think that whatever they will ask, you can answer!
Good luck! I just got a paraprofessional job. I brought the same packet I had been sending out for teaching positions- cover letter, resume, letters of rec, and I threw in transcripts and certification. I had my portfolio with me but I never had to take it out because the conversation never led there. She just wanted to know about my experience working with children similar to those I would be working with. I was lucky in the sense that it was very conversational. Hope you have the same results!!!
I've been a teaching assistant for the past several years - looking for a full-time teaching position. I agree with mccl14, just bring what you normally bring for a teaching position. Having a para with a teaching certificate is well worth their money! Usually a teacher aide is not certified. In NY teaching assistants have to be certified as a teaching assistant. We take a test to become certified. However, in your case, you may not have to take this test because you are a qualified teacher. You will do fine! Good Luck. I feel it's a great foot in the door.
Ok...final question. If I am interviewing with two people, should I bring them both a folder with my interview materials (resume, references, interview brochure) and should I also bring a cover letter addressed to each of them?
If you know there will be two of them there, it definitely won't hurt to have one for each of them. That way, they won't have to look over each others shoulders for any information they want. If you know who will be there and can easily address 2 cover letters, go for it. Otherwise, just address them both to the principal. I wouldn't go crazy over finding the name of the second person, though. Chances are, they won't read it while you are in there because they already have- that is probably how you got the interview in the first place! For me, they just scanned my resume and asked questions based off of that.
Often times THEY don't even know the difference (and even if they DID...the next district has a WHOLE new idea). Go on the districts website. See if there is anything there that talks about job descriptions/compensations, etc.
