Secondary Teacher
Secondary Teacher Career Overview
Secondary teachers provide instruction to students in high school, typically ages fourteen to eighteen. Secondary teachers usually specialize in a particular discipline or subject, such as biology or math. They must undergo extensive training and meet strict standards in preparation for careers in this field.
Secondary Teacher Training & Education
Secondary teachers are typically required to complete a bachelor’s degree with a major in education, and many aspiring teachers choose to double major in education plus the subject they wish to teach. In addition, in order to teach in public schools, secondary teachers must pass licensing exams upon graduation; the specific tests and certifications vary by state. In regions in which there are teacher shortages, the Board of Education will sometimes relax the requirements to become a teacher, or allow individuals to compete their education and certification exams while teaching. A renewal of certifications or the taking of additional courses every few years is typically necessary for a teacher to maintain his or her credentials. In addition, certain states require that a secondary teacher obtain a master’s degree within a certain period of time after he or she begins teaching. Specific requirements for jobs as teachers can usually be found on the Board of Education’s website for each individual state.
The requirements for teaching in private schools may differ from those of public institutions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in most states, private schools are exempt from the licensing mandates of the public schools, and they may choose to accept candidates who have not taken the certification exams. However, requirements can differ depending on the institution.
In addition to coursework, prospective teachers are usually obligated to complete a certain number of classroom hours as an assistant or student teacher in a high school. Though the need for teachers is great, competition for full-time, permanent positions can be intense. Successful completion of the classroom internship and impeccable references from the supervising teacher and principal can improve a candidate’s chances of gaining employment.
Finally, many newly certified teachers begin as substitutes in order to gain experience, grow more comfortable being in the classroom, and obtain references. Some states will allow those still working on obtaining their certification to work as substitutes. Information about becoming a substitute teacher can usually be found on the Board of Education’s website for each state.
Secondary Teacher Salary & Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2006, more than half of the teachers in the U.S. belonged to unions. Unions, such as the American Federation of Teachers and National Education Association, act as advocates for employees with regard to salaries, rights, and benefits. The BLS predicts that employment for secondary teachers will grow by about five percent by the year 2016. According to O*Net, the annual median salary for high school teachers in 2008 was $51,180.
Secondary Teacher Career Fields & Specializations
Most secondary teachers choose which subject they want to specialize in while they are still enrolled in college. High school teachers may choose history and social studies, English, mathematics, music, art, a foreign language, general science, or a specific science such as biology. High school teachers typically teach one subject, which may include variations within that area of study. For example, an individual may choose English as his or her specialty, and may go on to teach high school courses in American fiction, poetry, grammar, and comparative literature. In addition, a background in multiple subjects, or a minor in an additional field of study may come in handy if the teacher is called upon by the principal to provide instruction outside of his or her area of expertise.
Article Resources:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: TeachersO*Net Online
New York City Department of Education: Careers
