{"id":38963,"date":"2024-10-30T18:33:22","date_gmt":"2024-10-30T23:33:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.teachersoftomorrow.org\/?p=38963"},"modified":"2024-11-28T02:17:52","modified_gmt":"2024-11-28T08:17:52","slug":"how-to-become-a-high-school","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.teachersoftomorrow.org\/blog\/insights\/how-to-become-a-high-school\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Become a High School Teacher in 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"
A high school teacher teaches students in grades 9\u201312 in subjects like math, science, history, and English, helping them succeed academically and prepare for their future careers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n But teaching high school isn\u2019t just about lessons and tests\u2014students at this age (14\u201318) are going through adolescence, a crucial time of growth and self-discovery. They face academic, social, and personal challenges, making the teacher\u2019s role even more important.<\/span><\/p>\n Many teachers find guiding and supporting students during this important time in their lives incredibly rewarding. Watching students learn new things, develop critical thinking skills, and become confident young adults makes teaching a fulfilling job.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n High school teachers are also mentors who make a lasting impact. They help students find their interests and reach their potential.<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re considering becoming a high school teacher, you must understand all the steps involved. You must get the right education to earn your teaching license and pass other key requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n In this guide, we\u2019ll walk you through everything you need to know to <\/span>start your teaching journey<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Let\u2019s dive in.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n A high school teacher\u2019s main job is to help students prepare for college or other future opportunities.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you choose this career, you\u2019ll spend most of your time in the classroom teaching a specific subject, like music, history, math, science, or English. However, the role doesn\u2019t stop there. You\u2019ll also have responsibilities outside class, such as meeting with students during office hours and grading exams or essays.<\/span><\/p>\n Before becoming a high school teacher, it\u2019s important to determine whether this job is a good fit for you.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n You should enjoy helping others learn and be eager to keep learning yourself. <\/span>Professional development<\/span><\/a> is important for staying updated on new teaching methods and subject matter.<\/span><\/p>\n A passion for a specific subject is key because you\u2019ll share that passion with your students. Unlike elementary school teachers, who teach various subjects to one class, high school teachers focus on specific subjects and become specialists in them.<\/span><\/p>\n Becoming a high school teacher comes with many rewards beyond the classroom. Here are some of the <\/span>key benefits<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Being a high school teacher involves much more than delivering lessons. Teachers are crucial in guiding students through their academic and personal growth, helping them succeed inside and outside the classroom.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Below is a list of key responsibilities that highlight the daily tasks and expectations of a high school teacher:<\/span><\/p>\n There are various requirements for becoming a high school teacher, one of the most important of which is obtaining a bachelor\u2019s degree.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you want to teach in a public school, you must also obtain a state teaching license or certification. This can be done online through an alternative teacher certification and preparation program, like <\/span>Teachers of Tomorrow<\/span><\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n You can also choose to go through a traditional program; however, it may take longer and will likely be more expensive.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you want to teach in private schools, you may not be asked to have a certification. However, it is still preferred. Preparation programs contain a wide variety of helpful courses and will require a student teaching internship, providing individuals with classroom experience.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Becoming a high school teacher involves meeting specific requirements that vary from state to state. It\u2019s important to check with your state’s Department of Education for detailed guidelines because the process can differ depending on where you plan to teach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n You can become a high school teacher through two pathways: the traditional university route and the Teachers of Tomorrow alternative certification program.<\/span><\/p>\n Let\u2019s look at both routes in detail:<\/span><\/p>\n Once you’ve completed your degree and student teaching using either of the routes,the next step is to take the required <\/span>teaching and subject-area tests<\/span><\/a> to become licensed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n These exams vary by state but typically include a general teaching skills test and a subject-specific test based on the subject you want to teach.<\/span><\/p>\n For example, many states require prospective teachers to take the Praxis exams, which include both general teaching skills and subject-specific tests. Other states may require different exams like the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES), or the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE).<\/span><\/p>\n The tests are designed to ensure that you are well-prepared to teach high school students effectively. Check with your state’s Department of Education to find out which tests are required and to prepare adequately.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n After completing your education, student teaching, and passing the required exams, the next step is to apply for your teaching license. This license is mandatory in every state to legally work as a high school teacher.<\/span><\/p>\n To apply, you’ll need to submit your test scores, proof of completing your degree and student teaching, and pass a background check.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The exact process and requirements vary by state, so it\u2019s important to follow the guidelines set by your state’s Department of Education.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Once your application is approved, you\u2019ll receive your teaching license, allowing you to officially begin teaching.<\/span><\/p>\n With your teaching license in hand, it\u2019s time to start applying for open teaching positions in your subject area.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Look for job openings in high schools, district websites, and job search platforms like LinkedIn and Glassdoor.<\/span><\/p>\n When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your education, student teaching experience, and any specific skills related to the subject you want to teach.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Be prepared for interviews by practicing answers to common questions and discussing your teaching philosophy.<\/span><\/p>\n If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education, alternative certification can be your best option for you to become a teacher in 2024. Here\u2019s why:<\/span><\/p>\n The salary for high school teachers varies based on different criteria. The district, state, and grade level can all determine the amount a teacher is paid.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The annual median salary of a high school teacher is <\/span>$65,220<\/span><\/a>, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.<\/span><\/p>\n The salaries vary, with the top 75% making $83,340 and the lowest-paid 25% making $54,290.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The table below shows the highest-paying states for <\/span>high school teachers<\/span><\/a> in the country:<\/span><\/p>\n\n The job outlook for high school teachers is positive and growing. Currently, there is a national teacher shortage, which means that teachers are in high demand now and will continue to be for many the next decade. This situation provides job security for teachers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\nHigh School Teacher Job Description<\/b><\/h2>\n
Benefits of Being a High School Teacher<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Responsibilities of High School Teacher<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Requirements to Become a High School Teacher<\/b><\/h2>\n
How to become a high school teacher<\/b><\/h2>\n
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree (Both Routes)<\/b><\/h3>\n
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2. Complete a Student Teaching Internship<\/b><\/h3>\n
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3. Take the Teaching and Subject-Area Tests for Teacher Licensure Required in Your State<\/b><\/h3>\n
4. Apply for Your Teaching License<\/b><\/h3>\n
5. Begin Applying for Open Positions in Your Subject Area<\/b><\/h3>\n
Why Choose the Alternative Certification Route by Teachers of Tomorrow?<\/b><\/h4>\n
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Salary for High School Teachers<\/b><\/h2>\n
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\n\t \nState<\/th> Annual Median Salary<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n\t New York<\/td> $96,400<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\t California<\/td> $105, 540<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\t Massachusetts<\/td> $87,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\t New Jersey<\/td> $83,590<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\t Connecticut<\/td> $84,290<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n Job Outlook for High School Teachers<\/b><\/h2>\n