High School Teacher
Why Is High School Teaching a Job of Tomorrow?
Education will always be resistant to volatile trends. No matter if the economy is struggling or booming, or what the latest technological craze is, or which hot button issues have people impassioned, education will remain a steady constant in continuously changing times. The need for education will not diminish, as the population increases
and more children are sent into high school to build on their knowledge of English, math, science, and history, as well as develop other language skills. Enrollment rates for students in high school are expected to increase about three percent from the 2005 figures for public schools by 2016, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. More high school teachers will be needed to teach the influx of new students. Employment opportunities for high school teachers are expected to see a five percent increase by 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. High school teachers earn an average salary of $51,180 annually.
What Does a High School Teacher Do?
High school teachers are typically responsible for teaching children from ninth grade up until twelfth grade. They play an important role in developing a student’s intellect and work habits, as high school is a transitory time where students must develop good study skills in preparation for their college career. High school teachers specialize in different subjects and teach several classes the same subject throughout the day. Subjects include mathematics, English, science, history, and arts programs and physical education programs. These teachers must create a curriculum that covers their respective subject clearly so that their students may experience the best possible learning experience and retain what they have learned, as well as successfully incorporate homework and reading assignments into the schedule. High school teachers also prepare students for college, teaching students SAT skills and mentoring them through the college application process.
What Kind of Training Do I Need to Become a High School Teacher?
High school teachers must have a bachelor’s degree from a teaching program, though some states now offer alternative methods of obtaining a teaching license for those who did not earn their degree in teaching. A bachelor’s degree program takes about four years to complete, and the teaching program for high school educators covers the courses the teacher will instruct, such as mathematics and literature, as well as teaching methods, the psychology of learning, and other relevant topics. Most states require that prospective teachers complete an internship as a teaching aide or assistant before teaching full-time. Public school teachers must be licensed to teach, and the requirements for licensure vary between states. Private school teachers must adhere to the specific requirements set down by the school in which they teach.
