HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER

WHAT THEY DO:

• Teach academic lessons
• Teach students skills needed for college or to enter the job market
• Create lesson plans and grade papers
• Ensure student comprehension of lesson concepts and ideas
• Prepare students for life after graduation

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND SCHEDULE

• Most teachers work in public or private schools
• Classroom setting surrounded by students
• Teachers work school hours (which vary)
• They also work nights and weekends to grade papers and prepare lessons
• Most teachers do not work during the summer

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

• The minimum level of formal training required is a bachelors degree
• Most public school teachers must have a state-issued certification or license
• Several also do years of substituting or assistant teaching

SKILLS NEEDED FOR THIS OCCUPATION

• Communication skills
• Patience
• Resourcefulness

WAGES

• Entry level: $36,930 or less
• Median: $55,050
• Potential: more than $85,690

OUTLOOK AND PROSPECTS

• Employment is projected to grow 6% by 2022
• Enhance future prospects by becoming certified to teach
• Math, science (chem and physics), english (as a 2nd language) and special education

SIMILAR OCCUPATIONS

• Childcare workers
• Social workers
• Middle school teachers