I have an interview on Monday for a SPED redirection position. My understanding is that the position is a teacher for a "cool down" room for students who have been identified as needing a place where they can remove themselves to when they begin to feel upset.

Some of the things I understand are that I need to have rapport with my caseload so that they feel comfortable in my room. I also know I need to be familiar with their current teacher and curriculum so I can I assist them with their work when they come into the room.

I'm having trouble finding specific techniques online for calming and redirecting. I'm not too worried about answering interview questions on the spot but I am hoping someone with experience can give me some helpful insight.

I would say I'm an introverted person but not an introvert. I believe I would be a good fit for the position as I'm a good listener and have an ability to remain calm and positive. Also I know I'll be interviewing with an extrovert and will have to communicate specific examples of things that come naturally to me. I've come up with breathing techniques (if the student is really upset) and a calming box where we take a shoe box and fill it with items to help the student regain composure.

I'm also really good with my own teenage son and have a natural ability to empathize and provide what I like to call "gentle perspective" where we refocus on the positive.

I plan on conveying all of this in my interview but I'm also looking for some more concrete ideas to show that I'm prepared to handle this position. It's really something I want because I was that student that wished he had a place to cool off and I'd love to facilitate that as a teacher.

This is a middle school 6-8 position.

I appreciate any input!