Portland Public Schools Interview Questions
& Process

After submitting the online application, it took about two weeks to hear back from the office manager. The interview was with the Office Manager, and it was in-person or via Zoom. They focused on my work history and admin experience, how I handle multi-tasking in a busy school office, my computer and software skills (like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and student info systems), my customer service approach with students, parents, and staff, and my understanding of confidentiality and school values.

The interview process was easy. They called to schedule a phone screening, and then someone called to schedule a Zoom interview. Everything was organized very well and easy to get through the process. The lengthy part is reference and background checks.

The whole interview thing was super long and confusing. First, an admin person called to set up an interview, but then I couldn't reach them anymore. I tried contacting them in different ways, but no response. About 60 days later, I got an email saying they hired someone else.

I had a panel interview with 4 interviewers, though the manager only gave names and not roles, so I was unsure of who I was speaking with. I was selected as a finalist along with another candidate, and then reference checks were done. Round 2 was a "Coffee and Conversation" with the hiring manager and another key stakeholder. After speaking with HR a week later, the recruiter informed me I was the top choice and that they were working on the salary analysis. Two business days after that, HR called to let me know the job would be reposted because they were going in a different direction.