How to Get a Job in Education

On day one of the Teacher Education Conference, I attended a workshop titled How to Get a Job in Education, led by Sheri Epstein, a secondary principal in the York Region District School Board. The session focused on preparing teacher candidates for the hiring process and offered insight into what principals are looking for and how to effectively respond to interview questions. Ms. Epstein emphasized that strong answers should sound like mini-essays with a clear beginning, middle, and end. She also emphasized that strong answers should be rooted in real classroom experience and reflection.

One of the key takeaways for me was how important it is to go beyond generic answers and speak about my specific strategies and experiences throughout my teaching career thus far. For example, when asked how I support literacy development, I now know it is not enough to say I value literacy; I need to describe how I have taught it, whether through guided reading, explicit writing instruction, or integrating media literacy, and explain how I measured student growth. Similarly, questions about equity, inclusivity, and classroom management pushed me to reflect on how I build relationships, understand student needs, and create safe, supportive environments for my students.

What made this workshop especially meaningful was how practical and honest it was. Ms. Epstein reminded us that interviews are not just about selling ourselves but about showing who we are as people first, then as educators. It was reassuring to hear that principals value reflective, student-centered teaching and want to see authenticity in our answers.

Moving forward, I feel more confident about how to prepare for interviews and present myself professionally. More importantly, the workshop reminded me of the kind of teacher I strive to be, which is one who is thoughtful, flexible, and always learning. This session helped me connect my teaching experiences to the bigger picture of what schools need and value in their staff.

Madelyn @ NUO-Cohort 18 - OTECC