Applying through the Teach For America process, I had a great chat with the new principal and we both agreed it felt like a fit. The only thing I wish I had done differently to prepare was think about what questions I'd ask the principal to assess the school's performance, culture, and priorities.

Went to CPS job fair, talked to recruiter, and gave resume. Received phone call to go in for an interview plus 20-minute demo lesson on any topic with department instructional leader and a teacher from the department. Phone interview with principal - to ensure that I understood that the position was in an urban environment and that I had solid classroom management skills. It's important to visit their website and know their College for Certain and A Discipline Life models. Also brush up on the latest best practices, such as differentiation, backward planning, etc.