What is Your Philosophy?

There's one question asked in every single interview.  It takes several different forms and several different permutations.  The words may vary from interviewer to interviewer.  And, it may be disguised to look like a simple, innocuous inquiry.  But, no matter what form its takes, you can count on being asked about your teaching philosophy.  This is one of the most important pieces of information an administrator want to know about you.  Here's a typical "philosophy" query:

     What do you want your students to remember about your classroom?

     A:   I want students to remember my classroom as a comfortable place – one that supports their needs, both physically and psychologically, and one in which each student felt secure and respected.  I want students to know that the classroom is their place; that it’s not just the teacher’s place into which they have been temporarily invited.  I want them to know that the classroom invites student engagement and celebrates the work of all students.  I want them to have a sense of ownership in the classroom; a sense that this is a place that supports, encourages, and respects each and every individual as a unique and contributing member of the class.  Their “investment of self” in the classroom will pay off in incredible educational dividends and lifelong emotional growth.

This is a great question that taps into your underlying philosophy of education.  That is to say, are you child-centered or are you subject-centered?  Do you place students ahead of standards, curriculum, and rules or is it the other way around?  Keep your response to this question focused on students (not yourself or the curriculum) and you’ll always score points.