Do you know how you would answer this teacher/administrator job interview question: What makes an excellent elementary, middle, or high school?
Here is a sample response to give you some ideas.
A good high school has state rankings (based on test scores and other criteria) near or above the “effective school” level. Also, it has high-quality AP and International Baccalaureate programs, an orientation toward post-secondary education, and teaches a rigorous academic curriculum that includes a broad range of subjects, as well as values.
It offers an efficient special education program, has school teachers with full credentials and years of experience, has a high-quality library and technology program, has support programs for both gifted and struggling students, is well thought of by parents and community members, is safe and well-maintained, and promotes parent involvement.
The school climate includes a strong sense of belonging, school pride, discipline, and student participation in various extracurricular activities, including sports programs for boys and girls. An active high school has enough counselors, high graduation rates, high rates of entry to universities, anti-drug, anti-gang, anti-harassment programs that are vigorously enforced, and a secured campus on which entry and exit of students and others are monitored.
If you would like to prepare yourself further, then check out the resources written by Candace Alstad – Davies that prepares teachers and administrators for job interviews.
