Meet the Community Coaches

Abi Case

Abi Case

Title/Position
Employer Outreach Specialist, Employer Engagement
(Career Coach)
sauvik goswami

Sauvik Goswami

Title/Position
Associate Director, Assessment & Analytics
(Career Coach)
  • Do you consider yourself to be helpful, patient, or understanding? 
  • Do you enjoy engaging kids in fun and innovative ways?
  • Does it sound like fun to explain ideas and concepts to a classroom of learners? 
  • Would you enjoy building connections with kids while teaching them in ways to support their understanding and comprehension?
  • Are you interested in learning about best methods to reach students and creating lessons to help them figure it out? 

This page will give resources for people interested in Elementary Education & Secondary Education. If you are someone who is interested in being a teacher for K-12 students, you have found the right page.

K-12 Search Terms:

  • Elementary/Middle/or Secondary Teacher
  • Career and Technical Educator
  • English as Second Language Teacher
  • Special Education
  • Subject Area Teacher
  • Curriculum Supervision
  • Substitute Teacher
  • Teacher Aide/Assistant

Higher Education Search Terms Related to Education Backgrounds:

  • Academic Services
  • Administrative Services
  • Admissions Recruiter
  • Program Coordinator
  • Student Services

​​​​​​​Training and Development Search Terms:

  • Instructional Services Coordinator
  • Training Coordinator
  • Learning and Development
  • Recruiter
  • Leadership and Engagement

During Your Practicum

  • Build positive relationships with the people you will use as references and ask them for letters of recommendation. Remember to continue to talk with your contacts even after your experience has ended. A guideline for establishing and maintaining relationships with references can be found here.
  • Ask the principal at your cooperating school to observe you teach or to do a mock interview with you.
  • Attend the education job fair in the spring.
    • Note: Try to go both your junior and senior year. This way, you can introduce yourself to potential districts your junior year and meet with them again your senior year when you are searching for a job. This will give you an advantage over other candidates.
  • It is strongly encouraged that you meet with the Education Advisor at the Pomerantz Career Center by the middle of your practicum experience.
    • Note: The Pomerantz Career Center can help you with your résumé and finding relevant volunteer opportunities.
  • By the end of your practicum experience you should have a full working teaching résumé (a guide can be found here). The only part missing will be your student teaching experience, which you will add in once you have begun student teaching.

Before Student Teaching

  • Create a REAP account and/or Iowa Works account 
  • Write the first draft of a cover letter for a teaching position (a guide can be found here) and take it into the Pomerantz Career Center to have it reviewed.
  • Start looking for an appropriate and professional interview outfit.

During Student Teaching

  • Update your résumé with relevant information from your Student Teaching experience.
  • Ask the principal at your cooperating school to observe you teach and/or do a mock interview with you.
  • Secure letters of recommendation and maintain contact with your references.
  • Attend the education job fair in the spring.
  • Participate in mock interviews (offered during the fall and spring semesters) at the Pomerantz Career Center.

 Check out student employment, internships & post-graduation full-time jobs in Handshake.  Employers targeting University of Iowa students & alumni use this recruiting system to connect with you!

State of Iowa

Iowa Teaching Licensure Information
Iowa Works

National

Out-of-State Teaching Licensure Information
State-by-State Information List 
US REAP
k12jobspot

International

UNI Overseas Recruiting Fair
Teaching Abroad Opportunities​​​​​​​

Mock Interviews
Interview Preparation
  • Interview Preparation Guide
  • Potential Education Interview Questions:
    • Getting to Know You
      • Why did you decide to become a teacher?
      • Why are you the best/most qualified applicant for this position?
      • Describe a personal experience which had an impact on your teaching.
      • What is your favorite aspect of teaching?
      • What are your interests outside of teaching?
      • What are your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher?
      • List 3 adjectives that describe you professionally.
      • Why are you interested in our district?
      • Briefly describe your personal teaching philosophy.
    • Interpersonal Skills
      • How would you plan to facilitate collaboration between home and school?
      • Can you describe how you have or how you would communicate with students’ parents?
      • If confronted by an angry parent (or perhaps colleague) on an issue, how would you respond?
      • How important is it for you to be well liked by your students?
      • How would you respond to a student who asked for your advice on a difficult personal situation?
      • What kinds of things do you do to get to know students on a personal level?
      • How would you address bullying in school?
    • Instruction
      • Describe a typical class period.
      • What instructional strategies have you found most effective?
      • What are the components of an effective lesson plan?
      • What research-based teaching methods have you used?
      • What specific strategies would you use to help students who are struggling with reading?
      • Explain what differentiation looks like in your classroom. Give a specific example of a time when you have modified your instruction to accommodate the unique needs of a particular student.
      • How do you incorporate state and national standards into your curriculum?
      • What do you do to actively engage your students?
      • How would you motivate a reluctant learner?
      • What would you do with students who continually fail to complete their homework?
      • Describe a specific skill or concept that students typically struggle with in your classroom. How do you overcome that challenge?
      • How do you integrate technology in your classroom?
      • What kinds of multicultural activities promote diversity in your classroom?]
      • Describe your most successful unit and what made it successful.
      • How do you communicate your learning objectives to the students?
      • How do you make real-world connections in the subject area you are teaching?
      • How do you transition from one activity to the next?
      • How do you measure student success?
      • How do you know whether your curriculum is appropriately matched to your students’ needs?
    • Classroom Management and Environment
      • What type of classroom management plan would you implement?
      • How would you set up and communicate your rules and expectations to your students?
      • How do you handle students who are difficult to manage?
      • Describe the toughest discipline situation you have encountered and how you handled it.
      • If you were having classroom management difficulties, when and who would you ask for help?
      • Success in school is proven to be influenced by a child’s physical, social, and educational environment. Describe that environment in your classroom – how are these factors at play?
      • Describe the layout and environment of your classroom?
      • How do you build a community with your students?
      • What does a productive and collaborative classroom community look like?
    • Personal/Reflection
      • Describe the qualities of a highly effective teacher.
      • Identify 3 significant challenges that educators face today.
      • If you had been in charge at your last work place, what changes would you have made and why?
      • Describe the characteristics of the students you like to teach.
      • What did you find the most challenging during your student teaching experience? (Or, for veteran teachers, most recent teaching experience).
      • Describe a time that you were in a difficult situation and explain how you resolved it.
      • If you were doing something for students that you knew was right and your principal told you to stop, what would you do?
      • Describe in detail your best and worst days in the classroom.
      • Describe the best lesson you ever taught and explain why it was great.
      • What are your long term goals?
      • What new ideas would you bring to our school and/or district?
      • Give an example of a time you went above and beyond to accomplish a task.
         

Consider volunteering as a way to explore your interests, build your resume, and connect with the community!

Volunteering in the Classroom

A great way to gain experience is by volunteering in the classroom. This can be done by simply calling a school (try to choose one that is near where you live) and letting them know how you would like to get involved. If you have a specific age or area you'd like to volunteer with more, let them know and they can get you started. It's that easy!

Additional Volunteerism Links

UI Statewide Educator Fair

This fair is in the spring semester and will be for students in the College of Education seeking employment in school districts. 

Current UI students, alums, and students across the state are invited to meet with over 40 districts to discuss job opportunities.

Learn About Careers from Real Life Professionals

CandidCareer.com provides an easy way to explore careers and learn about job search strategies through thousands of 1-2 minute video clips

 

Watch More

Elementary Teacher

Education Coordinator

ESL Instructor

Job & Internship Postings

Teen Services Librarian at Dayton Metro Library

Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Employer: Dayton Metro Library Expires: 05/01/2024 The Dayton Metro Library is seeking three full-time Teen Services Librarians for our Southeast Branch, New Lebanon Branch and the Main Library.  The successful candidates will be flexible, team-oriented, self-motivated, and equipped to handle challenging situations.  We are looking for librarians who are skilled in making connections with local schools and engaging teens who visit the Library. These Teen Services Librarians will develop and deliver all programming for youth in grades 7-12 at their assigned locations and assist all patrons with their information needs. Join our team today! DML is committed to cultivating inclusive environments and a workforce that reflects the diversity of our community. As such, we encourage Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) to apply, in addition to members from other marginalized groups.  Further, we recognize the importance of language diversity on our team as Dayton was the first city in the United States to earn the status of "Certified Welcoming" city. We encourage applications from individuals that are fluent or proficient in any non-English languages commonly used in Montgomery County including Spanish, Mandarin, French, Korean, Vietnamese, Hindi, Urdu, Russian, Tagalog, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, Turkish, Swahili, and American Sign Language (ASL).   Essential Job DutiesDemonstrates excellent internal and external customer service. Creates a welcoming atmosphere in the Teen area through personal presence and area’s design.Provides all library users with assistance in reference, readers’ advisory, information literacy, and in the use of library materials and reference resources (all formats).  Serves at the Ask Me Desk and in a roaming capacity.Provides work guidance in the absence of the Manager and/or appointed person in charge.Designs, promotes, presents, and evaluates teen programs and activities that address community needs and incorporates library resources.Provides service and maintains liaisons with schools, community organizations, government agencies, and other groups as appropriate. Provides library outreach programs and school visits that meet community needs.Maintains attractive appearance of the Teen area in accordance with safety and ADA requirements.  Creates displays to promote library use.Evaluates and suggests titles for purchase or replacement.  Reevaluates and deselects materials which need to be cancelled, repaired, replaced, or redistributed.Assists patrons in finding and selecting library materials and in the use of the public computers, personal electronic devices, and library virtual materials.Submits required reports and budget requests. May serve on library committees. Attends applicable department meetings. Assists with system-wide programs, activities, and initiatives.Job QualificationsMaster’s degree in Library and Information Science (preferred) or its equivalent in education and experience is required. Valid Ohio driver’s license, acceptable motor vehicle record, and continuous insurability required.  Ability to drive vehicle.Ability to deal effectively with confrontational individuals and/or challenging situations.Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from teens, parents, teachers, patrons, managers, coworkers and members of the community. Ability to apply active listening skills. Knowledge of professional library principles, methods, techniques and procedures.  Knowledge and appreciation of teen literature, periodicals, audiovisual materials, web sites, social media and other electronic media which constitute a diverse, current and relevant teen collection. Knowledge of available teen library materials and reader’s interests. Ability to determine patron information needs.Ability to plan and implement programs and services to meet community needs. Ability to use Internet and other electronic reference resources. Ability to use e-mail, spreadsheet, and word processing software.  Ability to learn integrated library system functions used in carrying out job duties.  Ability to operate in a network environment.Schedule includes day, evening and Saturday hours. Compensation and Benefits: The starting hourly rate for this position is $22.36.  (Those applicants with a relevant Master’s degree may qualify for the professional offset, which would increase the hourly rate by $2.88 per hour.)   Benefits include health, dental and vision insurance along with paid time off and OPERS retirement.  Application Process:  Please submit a cover letter and resume to Jennifer Kadel at careers@daytonmetrolibrary.org.  This position is open until filled. The Dayton Metro Library is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. 

2024-25 Junior High School Science Teacher (BFJH) at Bondurant-Farrar CSD

Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Employer: Bondurant-Farrar CSD Expires: 05/01/2024 Bondurant-Farrar Community School District | www.bfschools.orgBondurant-Farrar CSD is seeking a Science Teacher at Bondurant-Farrar Junior High School (serving grades 7-8) for the 2024-25 school year.Position Open Until FilledHiring SpecificationsValid State of Iowa teaching license, with appropriate endorsement(s) or certification(s)Bachelor’s degree in position related area Preferred EndorsementsK-8 Science - Basic (150)5-12 Biological Science (151)5-12 Chemistry (152)5-12 Earth Science (153)5-12 General Science (154)5-12 Basic Science (1541)5-12 Physics (156)Pay2023-24 Salary ScheduleThe 2024-25 salary schedule has not been finalized; an increase is anticipated.Scope: To help students develop knowledge and skills and talents that will contribute to their talents in order that they may become productive citizens.Reports to: Building PrincipalRequirements: Meets licensure requirements of the Department of EducationPerformance Responsibilities:Plans a program of study that, as much as possible meets the needs, interests and abilities of studentsCreates a climate that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of studentsGuides the learning process toward the achievement of stated goals and objectivesEmploys methods and materials that are appropriate for meetings stated objectivesAssesses the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provides progress reportsMaintains effective communications with the principal, students and parentsStrives to maintain and improve professional competenceAttends staff meetings and serves on committees as requiredPerforms other duties as may from time to time be assigned by the board or administrationDemonstrates ability to enhance academic performance and support for implementation of the school district student achievement goalsDemonstrates competence in content knowledge appropriate to the teaching positionDemonstrates competence in planning and preparing for instructionUses strategies to deliver instruction that meet the multiple learning needs of studentsUses a variety of methods to monitor student learningDemonstrates competence in classroom managementEngages in professional growthFulfills professional responsibilities established by the school districtPlease contact Human Resources in the District Office with questions: hr@bfschools.org | 515.967.7819

Direct Support Professional - Assistant at Partnership Resources, Inc.

Tuesday, April 2, 2024
Employer: Partnership Resources, Inc. Expires: 05/01/2024 $1500 Hiring Bonus  Do you want to make a difference through your work? Look no further! Partnership Resources, Inc. is seeking a Direct Support Professional (DSP) to support adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in a day program setting! DSPs are key advocates who support individual choice, encourage life-long learning and development, and foster community engagement.  As a DSP - Assistant, you will:  Help with recreation, leisure and skill-building activities! We do everything from BINGO to karaoke, music therapy, job readiness, art and social skills!  Accompany individuals on field trips and to volunteer sites – helping people to explore and connect with their community in an inclusive way  Provide compassionate, person-centered support that encourages self-advocacy and goal attainment Check out a job preview here! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pz40FJ4l8wA  Pay: $15.57 per hour  Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM Benefits are included: Paid time off starting at 2 weeks per year!  Paid holidays off  Additional paid personal holidays  Medical insurance  Dental insurance  Retirement plan with employer match  Voluntary Life AD&D coverage  Free Employee Assistance Program  Access to the federal Public Student Loan Forgiveness program  Requirements:  No experience necessary. All training is provided. We are passionate about helping people explore a new career as a DSP, or provide a pathway to further opportunities! Must be able to pass a background check with the MN Department of Human Services  Must be authorized to work in the United States without a sponsor visa Must be able to regularly push/pull/lift 21-50 pounds  Ability and willingness to assist individuals with activities of daily living  Ability or willingness to learn basic computer and technology skills  This position does not require you to transport individuals  Our vision is that every person with disabilities thrives in an inclusive community. Together with our community partners, we raise awareness, help shape opportunities, and ensure that people with disabilities have abundant choices within community life. Join us in our mission. Apply now!  Partnership Resources, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to creating a diverse workforce. We will not discriminate against any employee or applicant based upon any characteristic protected by law. We welcome and encourage people of all life experiences to apply.  Learn more at www.partnershipresources.org 

ABA Social Skills Facilitator (Whittier) at Easterseals Southern California

Monday, April 1, 2024
Employer: Easterseals Southern California - Autism Services Expires: 05/01/2024 ABA Social Skills FacilitatorJob LocationsUS-CA-WhittierJob ID 2024-8291OverviewUnder direct supervision, provides instruction within a social skills group; collaborates with the Social Skills Lead in trial exposures; and monitors progress of participants. Contributes to regular lesson planning; writes session notes; and provides training to caregivers and Behavior Interventionists. Analyzes and adjusts treatment plans; generates goals designed to improve social deficits and teach self-regulation of problem behavior. Maintains productivity as set forth by the agency. Apply today! Starting Pay $66,560-$69,000/YrResponsibilitiesProvides direct instruction; facilitates social targets utilizing Behavior Skills Training (BST) and various other evidenced based practices to ensure acquisition of skills. Assists Social Skills Lead with trial exposures of new participantsGenerates progress reports treatment plans for the Social Skills Lead; plans, facilitates and leads activities within a social skills group; records data, generates session notes and maintains accurate billing of all assigned social skills participantsAnalyzes data from the social skills group for clinical effectiveness. Updates progress toward goals; provides training to caregivers and Behavior Interventionists within the group. Attends planning meetings and contributes to the schedule of activities and routinesActs as a liaison between organization and families receiving treatmentQualificationsMaster’s degree in ABA or related and 1-2 years of professional experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in a multi-disciplinary team settingExpert knowledge of scientifically-validated methodologies and behavioral analytic approaches found to benefit children with ASD; familiar with current related research findings.Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.)Ability to remain committed to a minimum of 6 month assignment in the Social Skills GroupAble to interpret and implement policies, procedures, and regulations.Able to consistently demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills.Ability to maintain customer service orientation and professionalism in all interactions.Ability to communicate effectively, through oral and written skills, and work cooperatively with a variety of individuals and groups. Must relate well to children and their families and maintain positive affect.Ability to exercise discretion, demonstrate good judgement, and maintain a high level of confidentiality to handle sensitive and confidential situations and documentation.Ability to pass a post-offer physical examination and a TB test.Ability to provide proof of required vaccinations or positive titer showing immunity. A signed declination may be acceptable for certain vaccinations.Ability to obtain and maintain a criminal record/fingerprint clearance from the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Investigation per Easterseals of Southern California and/or program requirements.Ability to travel locally; maintain driving record in compliance with Transportation Safety Standards; maintain auto insurance and vehicle registration. 

Behavior Technician at Meaningful Day Services, Inc.

Monday, April 1, 2024
Employer: Meaningful Day Services, Inc. Expires: 05/01/2024 Do you have a passion for helping individuals with developmental disabilities? Are you looking for a rewarding career with a company that has a dynamic and inclusive work culture? If the answer is yes, the Behavior Technician position at Meaningful Day Services could be job the you are looking for.At Meaningful Day Services, we are passionate about creating an inclusive and diverse workplace that values each individual. We believe that diversity in age, race, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion and disability make us stronger and more able to serve our clients and community.Our ABA Department proudly provides individualized therapeutic services to children and families impacted by autism, Down syndrome and other forms of Developmental Disabilities. Our registered behavior technicians provide these children the opportunity to reach their fullest potential by recognizing that each child is unique and by providing comprehensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) programs.You would have the opportunity to work with individuals 1:1 on academic skills, social skills, and self-help skills.We are seeking full-time staff who are available Monday-Friday 8:30-6:00 and part time staff available Monday-Friday from 12:00-6:00.Check out our employment video to learn more about being a Behavior Technician at Meaningful Day Services: https://youtu.be/MnspTuKYy2cWhat we offer you as a Behavior Technician:A rewarding experience in helping children with developmental disabilities reach their full potentialTraining and supervision needed to obtain and maintain RBT credentialPay raise for obtaining credentialOpportunity for professional growth within the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) fieldPart time or Full-Time hours availableOpportunity to work for an organization with a strong company culture that strives to be the best employer by focusing on creating an engaging, supportive, and fun work environment.Required qualifications of a Registered Behavior Technician:18 years or olderHigh school diplomaAbility to document data correctlyTechnology proficient in Apple and/or Android devicesReliable TransportationRBT Credential (training can be provided if you do not have credential)Preferred qualifications:Experience working with children and adults with developmental disabilitiesBachelor’s degree in special education, psychology, social work or related fieldBENEFITS401K planMedical options/AFLACAnnual stipend for supplies/expenses/educationMentoring/supervisionPaid holidays (7 in a calendar year)Paid time off (Full-time staff)Organization sponsored CEU trainingsPerformance based bonusesEAP2 Personal/Sick Days per yearMeaningful Day Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

This list a small sample of what is in Handshake. View all opportunities:

Hawkeye Spotlight

eremy Dietmeier has done what many young adults dream of doing: turned a love of video games into a promising career.

Levelling up his education game

A passion for playing video games led University of Iowa doctoral candidate Jeremy Dietmeier to embark on a career designing better informal learning environments.
University of Iowa graduate Carrie Schuettpelz looks beyond the frame standing in front of a colorful mural

Bringing a passion for policy to the classroom

University of Iowa graduate Carrie Schuettpelz wants to teach students how to effect change. She returned to campus in 2018 to share the perspectives she’s gained since leaving campus, ones that have come from living abroad, graduate study at Harvard, and federal work on homelessness.