Eva Said:

I am looking to land a job teaching mathematics at a high achieving high school.?

We Answered:

New Jersey is one of the harder states to land a job in... still, if you market yourself well, and interview well it can be done.

Some tips--

1. Schools expect math teacher to be complete braniacs-- the most academic of the academics at the school. If you know math inside and out, they'll see you as a prize candidate that is able to produce successful students. Show of your knowledge of higher-level mathematics as much as possilbe-- and be sure a passion for math exists shines through.

2. Use your experience to your advantage-- this is something you have that many other candidates don't. When they ask how you WOULD do something. Describe ways you have ALREADY DONE it. This shows you have experience doing whatyever it is they're looking for.

3. Emphasize the importance of teaching math for understanding, not just steps in a process. Show that you connect math to real-world experiences that students can understand and relate to.

4. Have a teaching portfolio on-hand. Include sample lesson plans, samples of student work, and photographs of your experiences. Most interviewers won't ask to see your portfolio-- BUT when they ask a question that relates to something you've done, you'll have tangible evidence you can pull out and pass around the table. Example: An interviewer asks, "How would you integrate computers into your lessons." You can pull out a lesson plan or student work sample that SHOWS a computer lesson.

Here's a good eBookthat may be helpful to you. It has common teacher interview questions and answers (for practicing beforehand), interview tips, and other job hunting advice. It's at http://www.iwantateachingjob.com

Best of luck to you.... you sound like an excellent, experienced candidate... I'm sure the job you're looking for is just around the corner.

Anne Said:

What am I going to do with my teaching certificate and no job?

We Answered:

In your situation, I would apply to small town schools around the area. It might not be the best pay, but it's a job for now and you can look for better opportunities in places you'd rather live. For example, I worked in a small town 15 minutes from where I lived.

You could also work in pre-schools or daycare centers - that way you get practice interacting with small children on a daily basis.

Other than that, your option is substituting for multiple schools and taking a "temp" job until you get one you want. I hate recommending Wal-Mart, I hated working there, but the health insurance is good and you get discounts on merchandise.

Generally, you need to apply for teaching jobs starting in January, and at the latest, May. Districts try to fill positions ASAP and most are done hiring by the start of June.

Greg Said:

What do catholic school teachers wear to work?

We Answered:

Some schools do require unifroms and some don't, as you said, it depends on the school. If you don't get to wear a uniform I suggest you go always start with black clothes and combine them with colors like grey / white or any other neutral color, nothing to flashy. If you feel like adding color always wear it under a black sweter so that the collar of the shirt, blouse is the one thing in color showing Always be conservative and formal, long skirts, pants, low heels,up to the neck shirts/blouse, small earing, natural make-up (some base and a pale shade of lipstick OR gloss that kind of stuff and you'll be safe.

Ryan Said:

Anyone know of any Social Studies Teaching Positions in New Jersey? Preferibly Northern NJ?

We Answered:

Start applying to ALL schools in your area.
Check with your Local Unemployment Office or Job Line.
Check with the Intermediate School District in your area.
Look into Charter Schools.

Terry Said:

How do I substitute teach in NJ?

We Answered:

Normally, you need to apply to the school system to become an approved sub. If you've already done that, the site you are looking for might be aesoponline.com. You'll have to have login info provided by the school HR though.

Tracy Said:

Teaching in NJ/ Alternative Route?

We Answered:

Subbing is your best bet. Find a few districts you are interested in and start getting to know the teachers and principals. You usually will move to either a teaching position or a teacher's assistant then a teacher.
Good luck!