Interviewing for a teaching job? Below is advice from Rich Melvin, assistant superintendent with the Osseo schools, that will help you succeed with your job interview:

• Don't ask questions about what the district can do for you. If your only questions are about your personal needs (salary, prep time, etc.), the interview team will question your commitment to children and your motivation.
• Don't speak negatively about another school, principal, peers or the district curriculum. "I had a candidate 'trash' his last principal and I immediately scratched him off my list of finalists," said Melvin. "I questioned the candidate's professionalism, social skills ... and wisdom!"
• Don't use informal language. If you speak during the interview the way you talk with friends, the employer will wonder how you would talk to parents and students. Your choice of language will reflect your ability to be a role model.
• You should come across as confident and assertive, but not overly assertive, which could indicate an inability to work as part of a team.
• It helps to have a connection with someone in the building. "I will almost always guarantee an interview if it comes as a recommendation from my staff," said Melvin.
• Do your homework about the school and the district. Go online to learn about them, their programs and the students they serve.
• Think about your passion, motivation and desires. Go beyond "I love kids." Interviewers in a school expect that.
• Focus on children and instruction. Present enthusiasm for the work, and reasons for choosing teaching beyond summers off and vacations! "I also look for joy in their eyes," said Melvin. "How do they 'light up' when they talk about why they entered the teaching profession? I don't believe you can teach passion."