What to Ask During a Teaching Interview to Make Sure the School Is Right for You

Dear New Teacher,

So much of your energy before an interview goes into preparing for their questions—how you teach, how you manage a classroom, how you differentiate instruction. But don’t forget: this is also your chance to interview them.

The school, the leadership, the staff culture, and the support systems will shape your experience as a new teacher. Choosing the right environment is just as important as getting the job itself.

That’s why one of the smartest things you can do is come to the interview with a few thoughtful, well-researched questions. Not only will it show your professionalism—it will also help you make a confident decision.

Here are 10 meaningful questions to ask during your teaching interview, plus tips for how and when to ask them.

Why It’s Important to Ask Questions

Hiring teams expect you to ask questions. In fact, it shows that you’re invested in your own success—and that you understand teaching is a collaborative, mission-driven career.

More importantly, asking the right questions helps you learn:
✅ What kind of mentorship and support you’ll get
✅ What the school culture feels like
✅ Whether their values align with yours
✅ How realistic their expectations are for new teachers

Questions to Ask in a Teaching Interview

1. What kind of support does the school offer new teachers?

This helps you understand if there's mentorship, onboarding, or a buddy system to help you transition smoothly.

Why it matters: You want to work in a place that invests in your growth, not one that throws you in and hopes for the best.

2. How is professional development structured throughout the year?

Shows your commitment to growth and gives insight into how much ongoing training and collaboration is prioritized.

Follow-up tip: You can ask about PD topics from past years or how teachers choose their own learning paths.

3. How would you describe the school culture among staff and leadership?

You're trying to get a sense of community here. Are teachers collaborative? Is leadership approachable?

Listen for clues: Words like "supportive," "team-oriented," or "innovative" can be green flags.

4. How are teachers supported in managing student behavior?

This tells you if there's a school-wide approach to discipline or if you're expected to manage entirely on your own.

Pro tip: A consistent, supportive approach to behavior is crucial—especially for new teachers.

5. What are the school’s top priorities for this year?

Gives insight into whether the school focuses on academics, SEL, DEI, test scores, or other initiatives.

Why it matters: You want to know what you'll be expected to align with and contribute toward.

6. What does planning and collaboration look like here?

Find out if there’s shared planning time, grade team meetings, or instructional coaching.

Green flag: Any mention of built-in time for collaboration shows a school that values teamwork.

7. How is feedback and evaluation handled for new teachers?

This will give you a picture of how performance is monitored and how feedback is used to support—not surprise—you.

Supportive environments will offer regular check-ins, goal-setting, and coaching rather than just formal evaluations.

8. How involved are families and the community in the school?

Understanding the school-family relationship helps you gauge expectations for communication and partnerships.

Listen for: Family nights, open-door policies, or multilingual communication support.

9. What does success look like for a first-year teacher here?

A great question to end with—it reveals what they value and what kind of pressure or support you might expect.

Bonus tip: It also gives you something to reflect on post-interview when making your decision.

10. Can you tell me more about the team I’ll be working with?

You’ll likely be spending a lot of time with your grade or subject team. Understanding their dynamics helps you imagine yourself in the role.

Green flag: The interviewer lights up when talking about the team!

How to Ask These Questions Naturally

• Bring a small notebook with 3–5 questions written down
• Ask some during the main interview if there’s space
• Always ask a question or two at the end if invited
• Avoid questions about salary, time off, or benefits in the first interview unless they bring it up

Final Thoughts from a Mentor

Dear teacher, you’ve worked hard to get to this moment. You deserve to work in a place that respects your time, supports your growth, and aligns with your values. The best way to find that out is to ask—kindly, confidently, and with curiosity.

You’re not just trying to get any job. You’re looking for the right job—for you, your students, and your future.

Wishing you clarity, courage, and confidence in every interview.