· Do you have the necessary certification(s)?

· Do you have credentials/certification that will meet additional and future school district needs?

· What major problems does the school district face?

· Does the school district prefer to hire people who live in the district?

· Who is the superintendent?

· Do they have any predictions about how your role might change within one to three years, or three to ten years?

· What are the state requirements for permanent certification?

· Are there areas you will need to study?

· Does your philosophy of education mesh with the school district?

· Does your classroom management style mesh with the school district?

3. Your Professional Needs. This area represents how you will be able to implement your professional training.

· Will you feel satisfied teaching the grade levels required of the position?

· Will you feel satisfied teaching the subjects required of the position?

· What technology is available to you?

· Do you have the opportunity to continue your education?

· Do they subsidize your continued education?

· Are there colleges or universities nearby that offer academic programs in your area of interest?

· Will you be able to grow professionally in the position over the course of time?

· Do they provide orientation and in-service training on a regular basis?

· Do you feel that you "fit in" with your potential colleagues?

· Do you share professional interests with your colleagues?

· How will you be evaluated?

4. Opportunities. This area represents potential avenues for career growth and development.

· Are there opportunities for your to become involved in extracurricular activities, such as coaching sports or advising a club?

· Are there opportunities for you to assist other teachers in their growth, e.g. mentoring, consulting, etc.?

· Are there other ways to provide your expertise or skills within the school district?

· How long do you intend to remain in this position?

· What do you see as the next step in your career?

· What would you like to be doing ten years from now? Twenty-five years from now?

As you can imagine, there are no right or wrong answers to these questions. They are as individual as your choice of clothing or what to do on vacation. But they are critical areas of consideration that can become frustrating to your professional health and well-being. While it is certainly possible to compromise on some topics in favor of priorities, be careful about being too flexible or neutral and sublimating your own needs or interests.

It should be an exciting time for you looking for your first employment with a school district. As you consider lifestyle, school district needs, your professional needs, and opportunities, remember that every job is a learning experience, and that this will be one step in your career as an educator. Make the most of it!