Education has come a long way from the one room schoolhouses of years gone by. Today’s parents have their choice of a dizzying array of school types. From public to private, schools in the 21st Century offer specialized instruction that often caters to specific segments of the population.
Before walking into an interview, take the time to understand the school’s focus and educational philosophy. Each type of school has a unique character and requires different skills from its teachers. If you want to win the job, you must present yourself as a perfect fit for that institution. Below are three of the types of schools you may encounter while hunting for a job as a public school teacher.
Magnet Schools
Magnet schools were born out of the racially charged 1960's in response to a desire and need to desegregate schools. Over time, magnet schools have evolved into highly specialized institutions that attract high caliber students from across a region. A magnet school might have an emphasis on math, science or foreign language skills. Often, students must undergo a rigorous application process before being accepted into a magnet school.
Since magnet schools often specialize, administrators are looking for educators and support staff with experience and knowledge in the school’s focus area. Strong academics and credentials are key to obtaining an education job at a magnet school.
Charter Schools
Like magnet schools, charter schools are specialized public schools. They were introduced in the 1990's to provide families an alternate option to low-performing traditional school districts. Unlike magnets, charter schools are managed and run independent of the public school district.
Teachers at charter schools may not have access to the same benefits and union representation provided to other public school teachers. However, they do often have greater flexibility in their teaching methods, especially since standardized testing requirements may be different.
Montessori Schools
In the early 20th Century, the Montessori method of teaching was developed by Dr. Maria Montessori. The Italian physician believed that children learned best when all five senses were engaged. Her teaching method involves placing greater control of the curriculum in the hands of students. Rather than a traditional classroom in which students sit at desks and are directed throughout the day by a teacher, Montessori schools often let children select from a number of age appropriate activities.
Educators interested in working at a Montessori school should fully understand and embrace this teaching method. Since Montessori is a method of teaching, you will find both private and public options for this type of school.
Want to learn more about which schools have openings in your area? Click on EducationJobSite now and explore the possibilities that await for your next job.
Maryalene LaPonsie is an accomplished writer who has extensive experience reporting on education, career advancement and workforce development topics. She specializes in sales and marketing consultation as well as general copywriting services.
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