High School Teachers

---

Duties

The following is a typical list of things that high school teachers do:

• Lessons are planned and pupils are instructed on the subject matter that the teacher teaches.
• Learners' strengths and shortcomings should be evaluated.
• Increase or decrease class sizes as needed.
• Assign and grade students' homework and tests.
• Informing parents of their children's improvement should be a priority.
• Work one-on-one with kids to help them grow academically and personally.
• Preparation of kids for state-mandated standardized examinations
• Create and enforce classroom rules and administrative regulations.
• Outside of the classroom, monitor pupils, such as at lunch or detention.

Typically, high school instructors work with students in grades 9 through 12. They tend to focus on a single area of expertise. Core disciplines such as mathematics, physics, and history are taught by some. Others focus on extracurricular activities, such as art, music, or physical education, as their area of expertise. Within their topic area, they may have the opportunity to teach many classes. There are a variety of subjects that may be taught by a high school math instructor.

Teachers at high schools may instruct pupils of various grades at different times of the day. For example, one class may be dominated by 9th-graders, while another class may be dominated by 12th-graders. Teachers have to tailor their teachings to the ability of their pupils in many schools, which necessitates a more personalized approach.

Teachers use their free time preparing classes, grading assignments, and collaborating with colleagues and staff members outside of the classroom.

All teachers of ESL or ESOL deal with students who are learning English as a second language or for speakers of other languages. To help students enhance their English language proficiency and assist them with class tasks, these educators provide one-on-one or small-group instruction.

Traditional classrooms are frequently used to teach students with learning difficulties and emotional or behavioral issues. In order to meet the specific requirements of these kids and keep tabs on their development, high school instructors collaborate with special education specialists.

Teachers need to be able to use and adapt to emerging technologies. It's possible for teachers and parents to interact with each other using text messaging apps. Teacher-created websites and discussion boards can be used by students as a means of expanding on a topic delivered in the classroom.

Education

All states need a bachelor's degree, which can be in education, for public high school teachers. Having a bachelor's degree in a subject area like mathematics or physics is often a requirement for teachers in high school in several states.

In most teacher training programs, students learn how to convey knowledge to pupils of varying skills and backgrounds in a clear and understandable way. Student teaching is a common feature of many programs, in which aspiring teachers work under the guidance of a mentor teacher to gain real-world classroom experience. Visit Teach.org to learn more about teacher preparation options in your state.

Following licensure and employment, several states require high school teachers to complete a master's degree program in order to maintain their certification.

There are no governmental requirements for private school teachers. A bachelor's degree and a concentration in a subject area are more common requirements for private school instructors than a high school diploma.

Registration, Certification, and Licensing

Teachers in public schools must be qualified or licensed in the grade level in which they will be working. Teachers at private schools are often exempt from having to obtain a license.

Secondary or high school certification is often offered to high school teachers, allowing them to teach classes 7 through 12.

State-specific requirements for certification and licensing might include, but are not limited to:

• An undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Successful completion of a student teacher training program.
• Passing a background investigation.
• Passing both a general teaching certification test and a subject-specific certification test to demonstrate their expertise as educators.

Go to Teach.org to find out what your state's certification requirements are.

In order to maintain their certification or license, teachers may be obliged to take professional development courses. After gaining their certification and landing a job, several states require newly certified teachers to earn a master's degree.

It's possible for persons with a bachelor's degree to get certification or licensing without taking further education classes. Some alternative certification programs allow applicants to begin teaching immediately under the guidance of an experienced teacher. These courses cover a wide range of subjects, including instructional techniques and resource management. Candidates who successfully complete the program receive full certification. Students in certain institutions are required to attend education coursework before they may begin teaching.

Qualities that are critical to success

Confidence in your ability to communicate. Teachers must collaborate with one another, with students, and with the rest of the school's personnel and administration. Teachers should also meet with parents and discuss their children's progress.

Patience. Teachers at the high school level must maintain their composure in challenging situations, such as when students are unable to comprehend a lesson.

Resourcefulness. Teachers at the high school level must involve their pupils in the learning process and tailor their teachings to each student's specific requirements.

Pay

The median annual wage for high school teachers was $64,580 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $47,330, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $104,670.

Job Projections

Employment of high school teachers is projected to decline 1 percent from 2023 to 2033.