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Time:

Wednesday
December, 16, 2026
12:00 PM - 01:00 PM

Location:

W187

Clinician(s)

Mike West

Mike West

Getting the Gig: Need to Knows for Applying & Interviewing for Your First Teaching Job

Clinic Synopsis:

Applying for a job and interviewing can be overwhelming. This clinic is geared towards people applying for their first teaching job, but is also a great refresher on the job search process. The clinic will provide insight into the application process, from starting an online application to receiving a phone call with an offer. We will cover best practices for preparing application materials, how to practice interview questions, and other ways to get ahead during each step in the job search process.

Mike West - Biographical Information

Mike West is the 6-12 Fine Arts Department Chair for Round Lake Area Schools and Director of Bands at Round Lake High School in Round Lake, IL. Overseeing a fine arts team across three buildings, he serves as an instructional coach and unifies secondary curricula. He has been teaching there since 2013 and worked closely with the team to significantly increase student enrollment and expand the program offerings. Mike also freelances a media consultant and creator. He continues to work on various media projects including graphic design, video editing, website creation, and app development for the Smith Walbridge Clinics, the Illinois Marching Cooperative, and University of Illinois Marching Illini.

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