A teacher’s aide goes by many names and takes on several responsibilities. Sometimes called a teacher’s assistant, instructional aide, or paraprofessional, a teacher’s aide helps deliver lessons and plan activities, works with students, reinforces learned concepts, ensures safety, supports students between lessons, and more.

From the ABCs to zoology, a teacher’s aide may work with various subjects and all kinds of children.

If becoming a teacher’s aide is on your to-do list, nailing the interview is vital.

Here are 10 interview questions you might expect:

#1 What experience do you have working with children?

Prior experience working with kids, including substitute teaching, is a great way to get your foot in the paraprofessional door, but this doesn’t always require an official capacity. Even babysitting your next-door neighbors or lifeguarding at the rec center is worthy of mention. 

#2 What is your educational background?

Education may or may not be more important than experience (it simply depends on the employer). Nonetheless, a degree or training in a teaching-related field can only help you. Don’t forget to mention any supplemental accomplishments you might have, such as a certification in nutrition.

#3 What interests you about working as a teacher’s aide?

An answer that holds a lot of power, this question is perhaps the most important on the list. It allows you to convey your passions, which can be just as potent as your credentials. Remember, employers want to hire people who will stick around even when things get tough. Those with passion are most likely to go the long haul. 

#4 What subjects are you well-versed in?

You might be fluent in fractions or prefer to shake things up with Shakespeare. Whatever your expertise, be sure to mention it. If you’re not certain where your talents lie, think back to the subjects you excelled in when you were in school and consider your interests and hobbies.  

#5 What age groups do you hope to work with?

Paraprofessionals are often used on the preschool and elementary school levels, but they’re present in middle and high schools, too. Think about the age group you feel most comfortable working with, as well as the need levels.

#6 How would you help a struggling or disruptive student?

This question offers you a chance to apply your work history, education, and training to the real world. If you’ve helped children with learning disabilities, special education needs, or behavior challenges, get specific about your experiences. 

#7 How would you support a teacher while maintaining boundaries?

One of the trickiest parts of being a paraprofessional is staying on your toes without stepping on toes; this is where boundaries come in. Consider how to maintain boundaries while still being proactive and helpful. This might include adhering to the teacher’s lesson plan, communicating concerns clearly and consistently, and asking for feedback. 

#8 How do you ensure a safe environment?

Here’s a chance to highlight any safety-centric training you might have (such as training in CPR or first aid). If you excel at staying cool under pressure or have experience in high-intensity or chaotic environments, bring it up. 

#9 What are your strengths?

Conveying your strengths in working with children, creating lesson plans, and teaching is, of course, an integral part of answering this question successfully. But don’t forget to mention any cross-skills you might possess. Do you speak another language or have experience in web design? Mention it, as you never know when those skills might be helpful and set you apart from the competition.  

#10 What are your weaknesses?

No one wants to air their dirty laundry or summon the skeletons from their closet, but honesty during an interview is highly important. In truth, everyone has weaknesses; those who are willing to own their vulnerabilities and work on them are far more valuable to employers than those who pretend their weaknesses don’t exist. 

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