The teaching interview: Principals' perceptions of teacher traits and the link to student achievement

This case study focused on the identification of essential teacher traits during the principal interview. Three research questions were addressed: What personality traits or professional characteristics are desirable and undesirable in a teacher candidate, according to principals? What actions or reactions indicate to principals that the teacher candidate does or does not possess these traits? and To what extent do principals expect any of these traits to positively affect student achievement? The methodology used for this case study was composed of questionnaires and interviews as well as other supporting school documentation offered by principals. The principals' responses to the questionnaire, interview, and request for supporting documentation were outlined and analyzed. The questionnaire data was disaggregated into four professional characteristic themes and three personal trait themes. The teacher-candidate actions linked to each of these traits and characteristics were identified. Student achievement was found to be a major concern of the principals interviewed. The extent to which principals expect the traits to positively affect student achievement was determined.