It is widely known that among the challenges that school leaders face today, the most common is the management of teaching quality in schools. There are many training and professional development opportunities that can be of advantage to teachers. But with or without them, there are fundamental character traits that can be assessed to see if a potential candidate fits the average learning abilities, values, and faculty of your school.

1. Test them for Will and Skill: Most schools in India hold qualifications and resumes as the primary way of assessing teaching capabilities of candidates. However, teaching is as much (if not more) about the classroom interactions and dynamics, as it is about knowing the subject well. This makes it important to get to know a candidate well and look for their character, passion, and motivation of being in the field. Also look for crucial skills like clear communication, confidence, problem-solving abilities, empathy, and enthusiasm. A demo class can be one of the best ways to assess these qualities.
2. Assess group activities: A teacher who cannot work together with other teachers will not be able to encourage collaboration among students. If there are multiple candidates interviewing for an available position, give them a small project to be completed in a set time limit. Observe what role each candidate naturally takes up in the group and how they work together. An ideal candidate will communicate with peers respectfully, pose their views confidently and logically, listen ardently and collaborate readily.
3. Context of the subject-child dynamic: In the case of experienced candidates, look for how well they understand the interaction students have with the subject he/she teaches. Assess how aware the candidate is of the common misconceptions with concepts and what strategies he/she follows to resolve them. A teacher who understands the struggles of children with a subject and knows how to make them easier exhibits qualities of listening, analysis, problem-solving and an enthusiasm for teaching.
4. Personality beyond the classroom: Teachers who are energetic, motivated and cheerful are always a good asset to the school. Assess the capabilities beyond academics and seek leadership traits which would be useful for managing school functions, trips, and relationship with parents.
5. Aptitude: Success in the 21^st century means that children need to be adaptable. The same goes for educators. As the method, medium and content changes after every year, the teachers should have aptitude and flexibility to adapt to new ways. A small exercise which goes beyond their core area can be an effective way to gauge aptitude. Not always check for the result but also the approach the candidate adopts.
6. Become an institution that attracts good talent: Existing faculty in schools can be a powerful way of attracting good teachers to your institution. They represent your values and help create a brand for your school. One of the best ways to create a value-based culture in school is to invest in the professional development of teachers. Every teacher is learning and growing with experience. Regular training, teacher meetings, constructive feedback and support from an institution can nurture your existing faculty into becoming the best and organically attract teachers who are passionate and talented.