Desired Traits of Preservice Math Teachers

There has been a constant shortage of highly qualified mathematics teachers in K-12 classrooms.To address the need for more math teachers, it is important to uncover the key factors that principals look for when hiring a new teacher in Hawaii.This research will elaborate on information from four individual principal interviews.Based on the feedback from the interviews, this study takes a closer look at identifying themes that support effective teaching qualities that are preferred in a mathematics classroom.The findings suggest that principals want to hire new teachers who demonstrate competence, people skills, kindness, teamwork, and receptiveness to new ideas.These common qualities were described as soft skills.The significant contribution of this case study will be used as a model for preservice teachers enrolled in a teacher preparation program working toward earning their teaching license.The results of this research will advance the knowledge of how preservice teachers as they prepare to seek full-time employment as classroom teachers.