This time we are looking into educational hiring processes! While every school district is slightly different, most follow a surprisingly similar 5-stage journey from application to offer.
Knowing these stages helps you identify exactly where you are and what's coming next in any educational hiring process.
Engagement Message
Can you guess what the very first stage might be?
Here are the 5 standard stages most schools follow: Application Review, Phone Screening, First Round Interview, Final Round Interview, and Reference/Offer Process.
Each stage has specific goals and different educators or administrators involved in making decisions.
Engagement Message
Which stage do you think eliminates the most teaching candidates?
Stage 1 is Application Review - an HR representative reviews your resume, teaching credentials, and certifications to ensure you meet basic requirements.
This happens within days to weeks of applying, depending on district size and hiring urgency.
Engagement Message
What's one factor that might speed up this review stage?
Stage 2 is Phone/Video Screening - a principal, department head, or HR representative has a brief conversation to verify your interest and teaching qualifications.
This typically lasts 15-30 minutes and focuses on teaching philosophy, classroom management approach, and availability.
Engagement Message
Why do you think schools do phone screens before in-person interviews?
Stage 3 is the First Round Interview - usually with the principal or department head who would be your direct supervisor.
This often includes a demonstration lesson or teaching sample where they evaluate your instructional skills and classroom presence.
Engagement Message
What's one question you would ask the principal at this stage?
