When I call to set up an interview with a teaching candidate, I ask them to bring whatever they feel will provide me with additional information about their qualifications for the position for which they are applying. Many times, if the candidate has not held a teaching position, the portfolios are mostly assignments from professional methods classes. I admit, that kind of artifact is not as helpful as artifacts from an actual teaching experience. It is always my hope that the items in a portfolio reflect growth in a teacher's career - experiences in professional development, successful teaching projects and skills that would make that teacher candidate an asset to my school district. To me, a portfolio just provides additional information - it certainly wouldn't override the importance of good references, answers to specific questions or the proper certifications. And, yes, I look at every page of every portfolio presented to me at an interview - I get some great ideas for school projects that way!