Becoming a high school theater teacher: Where to start?

I'm passionate about theater and considering a career as a high school theater teacher. What steps should I take to secure high school theater teacher jobs? Are there specific degrees, certifications, or experiences that would make me stand out?

Your passion for theater along with your interest in teaching high school students sounds like a great combination to pursue a career as a high school theater teacher. Here are some general steps to help you on your journey:

1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Your first step would be to earn a bachelor's degree. Ideal fields of study would be drama, theater arts, or music, although English and education could also be useful. During your undergrad, try to participate in collegiate theater productions both on and off-stage to get a good grasp of the various aspects of theater.

2. Gain Experience in Theater: Join local community or regional theater groups. Get involved in different roles—acting, directing, producing, stage management, and technical roles. This practical experience is invaluable and will allow you to bring a wide skill set to your future role.

3. Get a Teaching Credential: Depending on the state where you plan to teach, you'll likely need secondary education certification or licensure. The process usually involves a period of student teaching, testing, and ongoing professional development. Some schools could require specific certification in theater arts.

4. Consider Pursuing a Master's Degree: This isn't strictly necessary, but having a masters, such as a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Theater or Drama, can better equip you with advanced knowledge and may make you more attractive to employers. It can also lead to a higher pay scale in some instances.

5. Apply for Jobs and Interview: Finally, once you're certified, you can start applying for jobs. Your university’s career center might have connections to school districts, or you can apply directly through individual school district's websites.

Remember, every school and district is different, so requirements could vary. Be sure to check the requirements for the specific schools where you wish to work.