What attracts you to teaching math at our school?
Certainly, one of the most important motivations for choosing to teach mathematics is a love and interest in the subject, as well as the excitement of taking on the great challenge of teaching it. This is especially true for post-elementary and higher-level mathematics teachers. Finally, the scarcity of qualified math teachers may increase one's interest in the profession because finding work will be relatively easy.
Your response to this question should demonstrate to the interviewer that you want to teach math at this specific school, not just any school. Before the interview, conduct research. Use your research to demonstrate to the interviewer that you have a reason or reasons for wanting to work there. Make it clear that you want this job, not just any job. You could compliment the school's reputation, curriculum, or faculty. Perhaps you've read a couple of articles about that school that were complimentary. Perhaps you know a parent or a teacher who can relay the positive comments they made about the school during your interview. You could also choose to concentrate on the grade level and explain why your teaching style is ideal for the school. Select an explanation that makes sense to the interviewer. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you are a good fit for the school.
Answer: "I want to work at a school that values math as part of the curriculum as well as achievement and improvement, particularly in math but also in other subjects. I know that a student from this school recently qualified for USAMO thanks to the school's math program. "I believe that my teaching style would complement the program and encourage more students to enjoy and succeed in math."
