What do high school government teachers typically do?

I'm considering teaching government at a high school level, but I'm not sure what the job entails. Can anyone share the main duties and what kind of background or education might be required?

High school government teachers, indeed, play an important role in educating students about the systems and intricacies of government. Here are some of the duties and responsibilities you might expect:

1. Developing and Implementing Lesson Plans: A substantial part of your role will involve designing comprehensive yet engaging curriculum for various government and civics subjects. Lesson plans could cover topics like the Constitution, the federal and state government structure, and understanding civil liberties and rights, etc.

2. Classroom Management: Developing and upholding classroom rules and managing day-to-day classroom activities will also be significant. This will involve creating an inclusive learning environment and handling any disciplinary issues.

3. Assessing Student Progress: To measure student understanding, high school government teachers design assignments, quizzes, and tests. Further, they provide feedback, help students improve areas of weakness, and potentially offer extra help outside of class hours.

4. Activity and Project Coordination: Engaging students in civic participation or creating project-based learning experiences can aid in practical understanding of government and politics. This might include organizing debates, civic action projects, or mock elections.

5. Parent-Guardian Communication: Regular communication with parents or guardians about student progress and any classroom concerns is another key part of the job.

6. Continual Self-development: Keeping in conjunction with emerging government policies and current events, as well as attending teacher training workshops, is vital for continuous growth.

As for education and training, you will typically need at least a bachelor's degree in political science, social studies, history, education, or another related field. Many states also require high school teachers to have completed a teacher preparation program. In terms of qualification, obtaining a teaching license or certification is mandatory for public school teachers in all states. Each state will have specific criteria for licensure, which could involve passing a competency examination and completing an observation period.

Furthermore, any experience that illustrates your interest and commitment to the government and politics would be beneficial. This might include internships, volunteer activities, or participation in relevant clubs and organizations. For example, having been part of a debate team or mock government would be an asset.

In summary, it's a multifaceted role with elements of teaching, mentorship, and administration – all set within ever-changing political contexts, making it both challenging and rewarding.