25 Intervention Teacher Interview Questions and Answers

Intervention teachers work with students who are struggling in school and need more help than what is typically offered in the classroom. They work with students one-on-one or in small groups to help them catch up and keep up with their classmates.

If you’re interviewing for an intervention teaching job, you can expect to be asked a range of questions about your teaching experience, your strategies for working with students, and your knowledge of the subjects you’ll be teaching. In this guide, we’ll provide you with sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you familiar with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that protects the rights of students with disabilities. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you are familiar with IDEA and how it applies to special education teachers. In your answer, try to explain what IDEA is and why it’s important for educators to understand its requirements.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). As an Intervention Teacher, it is important for me to understand this law and how it affects my students. I have taken several courses that focus on IDEA and its implications in special education. I also stay up-to-date with any changes or updates to the law by attending conferences and workshops related to special education. In addition, I have worked closely with school administrators and other professionals to ensure compliance with IDEA regulations. Finally, I have experience working with families of students with disabilities to help them navigate the process of obtaining services under IDEA.”

2. What are some of the most important skills you think an intervention teacher should have?

This question can help the interviewer determine your understanding of what skills are most important for this role. Use your answer to highlight any specific skills you have that make you a good fit for this position, such as:

Motivation Communication Teaching methods

Example: “I believe that an intervention teacher should have a few key skills in order to be successful. First and foremost, they should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills. Being able to effectively communicate with students, parents, and other staff members is essential for any intervention teacher. It’s also important to be patient and understanding when working with students who may need extra help or support.

In addition, I think it’s important for an intervention teacher to be organized and detail-oriented. They must be able to create lesson plans, track student progress, and keep accurate records of their work. Finally, having the ability to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions to problems is invaluable for any intervention teacher. By being creative, they can find new ways to engage students and make learning more enjoyable.”

3. How would you describe the role of an intervention teacher?

This question is an opportunity to show your understanding of the role and responsibilities of a teacher in this position. You can describe what you would do as an intervention teacher, but also how you would help students develop their skills and knowledge.

Example: “As an intervention teacher, my role is to provide targeted instruction and support to students who are struggling academically. I work closely with the classroom teachers to identify areas of need for each student and develop individualized plans that address those needs. My goal is to help bridge the gap between where a student currently is and where they should be in terms of their academic performance.

I also collaborate with other staff members such as counselors, school psychologists, and administrators to ensure that all aspects of a student’s education are being addressed. This includes providing social-emotional support, advocating for appropriate accommodations, and helping students access resources outside of the school setting when necessary. Finally, I strive to create a positive learning environment through differentiated instruction and positive reinforcement.”

4. What is your experience with working with students who have special needs?

Special education teachers often work with students who have unique needs. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience working with special needs students and how you can help them succeed in the classroom. Use examples from your previous job to highlight your skills, knowledge and abilities when it comes to helping students with special needs.

Example: “I have been working as an Intervention Teacher for the past five years. During this time, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide range of students who have special needs. My experience includes providing individualized instruction and support to students with learning disabilities, emotional/behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorder, physical disabilities, and other health impairments.

In addition, I am well-versed in evidence-based practices such as positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS), response to intervention (RTI), and differentiated instruction. I also have extensive knowledge of assistive technology and its applications for students with special needs. Furthermore, I have collaborated closely with parents, teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure that all students receive appropriate accommodations and modifications to meet their individual needs.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to create an individualized learning plan for a student.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience with creating IEPs, or individualized education plans. This is a common responsibility of intervention teachers, so it’s important that you can provide an example of how you’ve done this in the past.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to create an individualized learning plan for a student in my intervention class. The student was struggling with reading comprehension and needed extra support to help them understand the material better.

To start, I met with the student one-on-one to assess their current level of understanding. After that, I created a personalized learning plan tailored to their needs. This included activities such as guided reading sessions, targeted vocabulary instruction, and practice tests. I also worked closely with the student’s parents to ensure they were aware of the progress being made and could provide additional support at home.”

6. If you had to choose one area of education to focus on as an intervention teacher, what would it be?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your priorities as an educator. It also helps them understand what you value in education and how you would prioritize your time if hired. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention one of the areas that intervention teachers focus on most often, such as reading or math.

Example: “If I had to choose one area of education to focus on as an intervention teacher, it would be literacy. Literacy is the foundation for all learning and development, so providing students with a strong foundation in reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills is essential. As an intervention teacher, I have experience working with struggling readers and writers to help them develop their skills and build confidence. I am also familiar with evidence-based strategies such as explicit instruction, guided practice, and differentiated instruction that can be used to support student learning. My goal is to create a positive learning environment where students feel safe and supported while they work on improving their literacy skills.”

7. What would you say is the most challenging part of being an intervention teacher?

This question can help interviewers understand what you find challenging and how you overcome challenges. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific challenge that you have faced in the past and how you overcame it.

Example: “The most challenging part of being an intervention teacher is finding the right balance between providing individualized instruction and meeting the needs of all students in a classroom. Every student has unique learning styles, abilities, and challenges, so it can be difficult to find the best approach for each student. As an intervention teacher, I strive to create a supportive environment that allows each student to reach their fullest potential. This requires me to stay up-to-date on current educational trends and research-based strategies while also having the flexibility to adjust my teaching style as needed. I believe that by taking the time to get to know my students and understand their individual needs, I can provide them with the support they need to succeed.”

8. How well do you handle stress?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your ability to handle a high-pressure job. They want to know that you can stay calm and focused when working with students who are experiencing challenging situations. In your answer, try to explain how you manage stress in your own life. Share some strategies you use to reduce stress and remain productive even when things get hectic.

Example: “I believe I handle stress very well. Throughout my career as an Intervention Teacher, I have had to manage a variety of challenging situations and deadlines. In these moments, I remain focused on the task at hand and take a proactive approach to problem solving. I am able to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities when necessary in order to ensure that all objectives are met.

Additionally, I understand the importance of taking breaks and engaging in self-care activities such as yoga or meditation. This helps me stay centered and clearheaded so that I can effectively manage any stressful situation. Finally, I make sure to communicate openly with colleagues and supervisors about any issues that may arise, allowing for quick resolution and minimal disruption.”

9. Do you enjoy working with other teachers to develop new lesson plans and programs?

This question can help interviewers understand how you interact with your colleagues and whether you’re willing to collaborate. Collaboration is an important skill for intervention teachers because they often work with other educators to develop strategies that support students’ learning needs.

Example: “Absolutely! I believe that collaboration is key when it comes to developing successful lesson plans and programs. Working with other teachers allows us to share our ideas, experiences, and knowledge in order to create something truly unique and beneficial for our students. It also helps to foster a sense of community among the staff which can be very important for morale and productivity. I have had the opportunity to collaborate on several projects in my previous positions and I always found it to be an enjoyable and rewarding experience.”

10. When working with a small group, how do you make sure each student has an opportunity to contribute?

This question can help interviewers understand how you plan and manage group work. It’s important to show that you know how to make sure each student has a chance to participate in the discussion or activity.

Example: “When working with a small group, I make sure each student has an opportunity to contribute by creating a positive and supportive learning environment. I strive to create an atmosphere of respect for all students so that everyone feels comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions. To ensure every student is heard, I use strategies such as providing verbal cues to indicate when it’s time for each student to share, using visual reminders like hand signals or posters to help keep the conversation on track, and giving individual attention to each student during group activities. I also encourage students to ask questions and provide feedback to one another in order to foster collaboration and critical thinking skills. Finally, I actively monitor the group dynamics to ensure that no student is dominating the discussion or being left out. By implementing these strategies, I am able to ensure that each student has an equal chance to participate and contribute to the group.”

11. We want to increase the reading levels of our students. What reading programs or methods would you use?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how you plan to help students improve their reading levels. Use your answer to highlight any experience you have with helping students learn to read and increase their reading level.

Example: “I am an experienced Intervention Teacher and I believe that I have the skills to help your students increase their reading levels. To do this, I would use a combination of evidence-based programs and methods.

One program I would implement is Reading Recovery. This program focuses on providing individualized instruction for struggling readers in order to improve their literacy skills. It also helps teachers identify areas where students need extra support.

In addition, I would use guided reading activities to help students practice their reading skills. Through these activities, I can provide targeted instruction to meet each student’s needs. Guided reading also allows me to assess my students’ progress over time and adjust my instruction accordingly.

Lastly, I would incorporate technology into my lessons. By using interactive websites and apps, I can engage my students while they are learning. Technology can also be used to track student progress and provide feedback to both the teacher and student.”

12. Describe your teaching style.

Interviewers ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how it aligns with their school’s values. When answering, describe the methods you use in the classroom and explain why they work for you. You can also mention any certifications or training you have that support your teaching style.

Example: “My teaching style is student-centered and focused on creating a positive learning environment. I believe that every student should be given the opportunity to reach their full potential, so I strive to create an atmosphere of respect, trust, and collaboration in my classroom. My goal is to foster critical thinking skills and encourage students to take ownership of their learning. To do this, I use a variety of instructional strategies such as cooperative learning activities, inquiry-based instruction, and hands-on projects. I also incorporate technology into my lessons whenever possible. Finally, I make sure to provide timely feedback to ensure that my students are making progress towards their academic goals.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this position?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their school. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight your relevant skills and experience as well as any unique qualities that make you stand out from other candidates.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my extensive experience and qualifications. I have been an Intervention Teacher for over five years, working with students from a variety of backgrounds and abilities. During that time, I have developed strong skills in developing individualized learning plans to meet each student’s needs. My ability to build relationships with students and families has enabled me to create positive learning environments where all students can succeed.

In addition, I have specialized training in evidence-based practices such as Response to Intervention (RTI) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). This allows me to use data-driven strategies to identify areas of need and develop effective interventions. I also have experience with multi-tiered systems of support, which is essential for successful intervention programs. Finally, I am passionate about helping students reach their full potential and I strive to provide them with the tools they need to be successful.”

14. Which age group do you prefer to teach?

Interviewers may ask this question to determine if you are a good fit for their school. They want to know that you will be happy teaching the students in their district and that you have experience working with children of all ages. When answering, try to emphasize your comfort level with teaching different age groups.

Example: “I prefer to teach students of all ages, but I have a particular passion for teaching intervention to middle school aged students. I believe that this age group is particularly important because they are at a critical point in their development and need extra support to ensure success in the future. My experience as an Intervention Teacher has taught me how to effectively work with these students, helping them develop the skills necessary to succeed academically and socially.

I am also experienced in working with younger students, providing them with the foundational skills needed to be successful later on in life. I understand the importance of building strong relationships with my students, which helps create an environment where learning can take place. I strive to create a safe and supportive classroom atmosphere, while still challenging my students to reach their full potential.”

15. What do you think are the most important qualities for an effective teacher?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching philosophy and how you would apply it in their school. When answering, consider what qualities the teachers at your current school have that make them effective. You can also think of which qualities are important for any teacher to possess.

Example: “I believe that the most important qualities for an effective teacher are patience, empathy, and enthusiasm. Patience is essential in order to be able to work with students of all levels and abilities, as well as being able to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally. Empathy allows teachers to connect with their students on a deeper level and understand where they’re coming from. Finally, enthusiasm helps to keep students engaged and motivated to learn.

As an Intervention Teacher, I also think it’s important to have strong organizational skills and be able to create individualized learning plans for each student based on their needs. It’s also important to be able to collaborate with other teachers and administrators to ensure that all students receive the best possible education. Finally, having knowledge of different teaching strategies and techniques can help make sure that every student is getting the most out of their lessons.”

16. How often do you update your lesson plans?

Interviewers may ask this question to see how often you update your lesson plans and adapt them to the needs of your students. They want to know that you are willing to make changes as needed, especially if they’re hiring you for a position where you’ll be working with students who have special education needs. In your answer, explain what steps you take when updating your lesson plans and highlight any specific strategies you use to ensure your students understand the material.

Example: “I am a highly organized and detail-oriented Intervention Teacher, so I always make sure my lesson plans are up to date. I review them on a regular basis and update them as needed. I also keep track of any changes in curriculum or new teaching strategies that may be relevant to my students. I believe it is important to stay current with the latest educational trends and materials, so I make sure to incorporate those into my lessons whenever possible. Finally, I use data from assessments and feedback from my students to adjust my lesson plans accordingly. This helps ensure that my students are receiving the best education possible.”

17. There is a new student in your class who doesn’t seem to be making friends. How do you approach this situation?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to help students develop social skills. In your answer, demonstrate how you would approach the student one-on-one and encourage them to make friends with other students in the class.

Example: “When I encounter a student who is having difficulty making friends, my first approach is to build a relationship with the student. This means taking time to get to know them and understand their individual needs. I also like to talk to other students in the class to see if there are any common interests or activities that could help foster friendships.

I believe it’s important to create an environment where all students feel comfortable and accepted. To do this, I often incorporate team-building activities into my lessons that encourage collaboration and communication. I also make sure to recognize each student’s unique strengths and talents so they can be celebrated by their peers.

In addition, I provide resources for parents and guardians to ensure they have the tools necessary to support their child in developing positive relationships. Finally, I am always available to discuss any concerns or questions the student may have about making friends.”

18. How do you maintain a positive atmosphere in the classroom?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your interpersonal skills and how you interact with students. This is an opportunity to show that you can be a positive influence in the classroom, which can help students succeed academically. In your answer, try to highlight specific strategies or techniques you use to maintain a positive atmosphere.

Example: “Maintaining a positive atmosphere in the classroom is one of my top priorities as an Intervention Teacher. I believe that when students feel safe, supported, and respected, they are more likely to be engaged in their learning and take risks. To achieve this, I focus on building relationships with my students and creating an environment where everyone feels valued.

I start by getting to know each student individually, so I can better understand their needs and interests. This helps me create personalized lesson plans that meet their individual learning styles and abilities. I also make sure to provide frequent feedback and recognition for their efforts, which encourages them to keep trying even when things get challenging. Finally, I strive to foster an open dialogue between myself and my students, so we can work together to solve any issues that arise.”

19. What strategies do you use to motivate students who are struggling?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you motivate students. Use examples from your experience that show you can help struggling students succeed in the classroom.

Example: “I believe that the most important strategy to motivate students who are struggling is to create a positive learning environment. I strive to make sure my classroom is an inviting and supportive place where all students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and taking risks. I also emphasize the importance of effort over outcomes, so that even if a student doesn’t get the desired result, they still feel proud of their hard work. Finally, I use data-driven instruction to ensure that each student’s individual needs are being met. By carefully tracking progress and providing targeted interventions, I’m able to help students build confidence in their abilities and stay motivated to keep trying.”

20. Describe your experience with conducting assessments and progress reports for special needs students.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience with assessment and progress reporting. They want to know how you use assessments and reports to help students improve their skills and meet goals. Use examples from your previous job to explain the process of conducting assessments and creating reports for special needs students.

Example: “I have extensive experience conducting assessments and progress reports for special needs students. In my current role as an Intervention Teacher, I am responsible for creating individualized education plans (IEPs) for each student based on their assessment results. I use a variety of assessment tools to evaluate the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development of my students. After completing the assessments, I create detailed progress reports that include information about the student’s strengths and weaknesses, areas of improvement, and recommendations for further intervention. My goal is to ensure that all of my students are receiving the best possible instruction and support in order to reach their full potential.”

21. What would you do if a student refuses to cooperate with instructions?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenging situations. In your answer, try to explain what steps you would take to ensure the student cooperates and completes their work.

Example: “If a student refuses to cooperate with instructions, I would first take the time to understand why they are not cooperating. It could be that they don’t understand the instruction or that there is something else going on in their life that is causing them distress. Once I have identified the underlying issue, I would then work with the student to develop an appropriate plan of action. This might include providing additional support and guidance, developing alternative strategies for learning, or even involving other professionals such as school counselors or social workers if needed. Ultimately, my goal would be to ensure that the student feels safe and supported while also helping them to learn and grow.”

22. Do you have any experience developing behavior plans for students?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience with developing plans for students and how you implement them. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific plan that you developed in the past and what steps you took to create it.

Example: “In my last role as an intervention teacher, I worked with a student who had some behavioral issues during class. We created a behavior plan together where he would receive points for positive behaviors and lose points for negative ones. He was able to earn prizes at the end of each week based on his point total. This helped him learn appropriate classroom behaviors while also giving him motivation to behave well.”

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience developing behavior plans for students. During my time as an Intervention Teacher, I have worked with a variety of students who had different needs and behaviors. I was able to identify the root cause of their behavioral issues and develop individualized plans that addressed their specific needs. My plans included positive reinforcement strategies, clear expectations, and consistent consequences.

I also believe in collaborating with parents and other staff members when creating these plans. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and can work together to help the student succeed. I am confident that my experience and approach will be beneficial to your school and the students you serve.”

23. How do you ensure that all of your students understand what is being taught?

The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you ensure that all students in the classroom understand what is being taught. Use examples from past experiences where you helped students develop their learning skills or strategies for understanding new concepts.

Example: “I believe that all students should have the opportunity to understand what is being taught in the classroom. To ensure this, I use a variety of teaching strategies and resources to make sure that my lessons are accessible for all learners. For example, I often incorporate hands-on activities, visual aids, and technology into my instruction so that each student can engage with the material in their own way. I also provide frequent checks for understanding throughout my lessons to ensure that everyone is on track. Finally, I am always open to feedback from my students and adjust my instruction accordingly. By using these methods, I strive to create an environment where all students feel comfortable learning and can reach their full potential.”

24. In what ways do you create an inclusive learning environment?

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your teaching style and how you create a positive learning environment for all students. Use examples from your experience that show you can work with diverse groups of students, including those who have special needs or are in the ESL program.

Example: “Creating an inclusive learning environment is one of my top priorities as an Intervention Teacher. I believe that all students should feel comfortable and respected in the classroom, regardless of their background or abilities. To ensure this, I strive to create a safe space for open dialogue and collaboration. I also make sure to provide differentiated instruction based on each student’s individual needs. This could include using visual aids, breaking down complex concepts into simpler ones, or providing additional support when needed. Finally, I always encourage students to ask questions and share their ideas without fear of judgement. By creating an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding, I am able to foster an environment where every student can learn and grow.”

25. How do you stay up-to-date on the latest teaching methods and trends?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you are committed to continuing your education and learning new teaching methods. They want to know that you’re willing to learn from others and implement their suggestions into your classroom. In your answer, explain how you stay up-to-date on the latest trends in education. You can also mention any professional development courses or conferences you’ve attended recently.

Example: “I am passionate about staying up-to-date on the latest teaching methods and trends. I read professional journals, attend conferences, and take online courses to stay informed of new developments in the field. I also use social media to connect with other educators who share their experiences and advice. Finally, I make sure to keep an open dialogue with my colleagues so that we can discuss any changes or updates in our practice. By doing these things, I’m able to ensure that I’m providing the most effective instruction for my students.”