Describe a time you worked with a challenging fellow teacher and how you handled the situation

Rationale: Interviewers gauge your ability to handle teamwork challenges in special education. Choose a positive outcome scenario using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for clarity. For instance, recount a situation during an IEP meeting where differing opinions surfaced. Describe how you facilitated open communication, proposed a compromise, and achieved a resolution that benefited the student. This concise example showcases your skills in effective communication, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving within the context of special education teamwork.

Example answer: As a special education teacher, part of our responsibility is organizing materials. In a past role, a situation arose where my coworker consistently left without assisting with end of day cleaning. After a few weeks, I approached them, reminding them of our shared cleaning duties. They explained their evening commitments, making it challenging to help. Seeking a resolution, I consulted the lead teacher. Together, we sat down with my coworker, fostering open communication. Collaboratively, we crafted a cleaning schedule that accommodated both our needs. This experience taught me the importance of effective communication and finding compromises to ensure a harmonious work environment, demonstrating my commitment to collaborative problem-solving in the field of special education.