Answering questions in a way that is expected of you during an Special Education Aide interview is not a child’s play. However, you need to try your best and give the most logical answer. Most of us have an inherent apprehension of sitting across the table from an interviewer but it is something that we have to do – so we need to be prepared for it.

If you understand the job description for Special Education Aide, most of your apprehension is sure to disappear. Also, if you have worked at the said position earlier, you will have some idea of what type of questions you may be asked. However, if you are applying for an entry level position, you need to do a lot of research work prior to interview.

Research plays a pivotal role in interview preparation. For example, if you are applying for a special education aide interview, you may need to have a look at the following set of interview questions and answers before the interview date. Have a look!

Special Education Aide Interview Questions and Answers

What are the responsibilities of a special education aide?
A special education aide is responsible for assisting the teacher in carrying out daily tasks, maintaining classroom discipline and implementing instructional tasks to a group of special needs children.

What makes you believe that you are a good special education aide?
Since I worked as a special education paraprofessional earlier, I understand that this role requires me to be sensitive to students’ disabilities and their needs. I can exercise compassion as it is inherent in my nature and I can work harmoniously with coworkers. In addition, I am non-judgmental and can handle adverse situations with delicacy and in an effective manner.

What would your reaction be if you observed a lead teacher indulging in unfair acts?
I am quite a tolerant person but when it comes to student welfare, I am a no-nonsense individual. If I feel that something is happening that will have an undesirable effect on either the institute or the students, I will report it immediately.

What kind of challenges do you expect to face in your role as a special education aid and how do you expect to handle them?
I am aware of the fact that I will be working with children who have physical handicaps, disabilities and disorders such as ADHD and autism. While it is very challenging to manage these, I have been especially prepared to respond to the needs of children with emotional, mental and physical disabilities. Exercising patience and understanding and ensuring that goals of a care plan are met are my main focus here.

If the children are required to be transported, would you be willing to monitor them?
Definitely, in my previous job I monitored children during recess and in the bus on their way home. It was part of my duty.

Tell us the three qualities which render you suitable for this role?
I am very patient, compassionate and communicator.

What do you know about behavior management? How can you help the teacher in this regard?
It refers to monitoring behavior of children, anticipating disruptive behavior and devising measures to avoid it. I can assist the teacher in this regard by maintaining behavior inventories, counseling the children about acceptable behaviors and moderating in case any conflict arises.

Is teamwork required in this role?
Yes! The lead teacher and the teacher’s aide need to work collaboratively to achieve the students’ learning goals and ensure presence of a learning supportive environment.

Can you handle more than one special needs student at a time? How?
It can be challenging sometimes, but I am able to handle more than one special needs children simultaneously. I usually keep all of them busy. As long as they are busy, they usually don’t seek extra attention.

How do you deal with a special needs child who refuses to perform the instructional tasks?
Over the past 3 years of training and experience, I have learnt that a child must never be forced to do work. If the child doesn’t feel like doing it, I’d postpone it. If the refusal persists, I’ll either refer the problem to the teacher or I’d devise ways to make the task more appealing and acceptable for the specific child.

Quote and instance when you successfully handled an emergency?
An epileptic child had a seizure once while I was overseeing the kids in recess. I took immediate medical measures to avoid hurt due to seizure and called for help. The teacher accompanied the child to the hospital and the rest of the group was very upset. I stayed with them until the teacher returned and calmed them down effectively.

As a special education aide, what is your biggest accomplishment?
In my previous position, I was working with a child who had speech impairment. He was very intelligent so he picked up what we taught him very easily. However, integrating him into society was not the easiest thing I have done. But with my coaching and his efforts, he managed to gain admission into a regular school. That was a proud moment.

How would you orient a substitute teacher’s aide if you plan to take a leave?
In addition to briefing the substitute about the issues and nature of each child, I’d bring the replacement with myself to the classroom twice or thrice to allow ample time for rapport building and for the kids to develop familiarity with the new face.