Some really good advice here, I am very impressed with this thread. It has been over twenty years since I have interviewed for a job, I used to do some hiring, but some time ago we formed a staffing company and made our Business Manager, president, with those responsibilities. Some things have obviously changed, I feel like I learned a lot. Most of all, good luck to you Gow, we will all be pulling for you!
I will say that a long time ago, right after I dropped out of law school, I accepted a position teaching a sixth grade class in the New Orleans public school system in a school that went from K-6. I started in mid to late October for a veteran teacher who had apparently hit her wall, as she had lost all semblance of an educational environment and informed the principal that she was applying for the DROP program in anticipation of retirement. Because I was not certified, I taught only that year and the summer session. What can I say... it was the best of times and the worst of times, sometimes all before lunch. It was hands down the toughest job I have ever had. When I would get home I would crash for an hour or so before I could do anything constructive. I have huge respect for competent successful teachers. As difficult as it was, it was also very rewarding and when done correctly about as noble a profession as there is. Sincerely, good luck.